Scholarship Winners Pursue Degrees in Computer Science, Criminal Justice and Law on a Mission to Serve Others
The 431 Exchange was inspired by this year’s Scholarship Winners, who demonstrated compassion, empathy, personal responsibility and professionalism. “It feeds the soul,” said Jeff Geoffray, board director and co-founder with Jeanne Geoffray. “These scholars humble us and give us hope for the future if the future is in their hands.”
Justin Green:
Courage to Pursue his Dreams
“It costs nothing to dream. It costs everything to chase one. For many, chasing their dream requires getting an education,” says Justin Green, a Tulane University student who is studying computer science and legal studies in business, while working part-time.
A diligent worker who also helps his dad with his janitorial business, Justin has ambitious plans for the future and a goal of giving back.
Justin, a graduate of Benjamin Franklin High School, plans to become a software engineer and create or fund a STEM learning camp for young people in New Orleans. “I believe that by keeping children in the classroom and providing them with opportunities for success, we can prevent the futures of our youth from being stolen by jail or violence,” he explains.
Justin appreciates the opportunities he has been given, and he knows life is filled with uncertainties, so opportunities must be seized. “I chase it because any given chance could be my gateway to success.” Justin says, noting he is inspired by the way the 431 Exchange shares his passion for helping young people, and enabling them to pursue their goals.
Sabrina Heavey:
Pursuing Justice and Equality
Sabrina Heavey, a Southern University Law Center student, does not let obstacles stand in the way of achieving her goals.
Sabrina explains that despite “the scant representation of African-American women in the field, I broke through barriers, juggling jobs while pursuing a degree in biological science, then transitioning to the legal sector where I found my calling. At the age of 32, I embraced law school, challenging stereotypes and embracing my potential.” Inspired by the 431 Exchange, she plans to “pursue justice and equality for all as a black female lawyer.”
She shares that the Southern University Law Center program, rooted in social justice, “speaks to my core as a first-generation black female student from New Orleans.” She was drawn to its commitment to empowering underserved communities and hopes to challenge inequalities, mentor young people and collaborate with organizations when she becomes an attorney.
Sabrina sees her journey reflected in that of the 431 Exchange, transforming lives through education. “The 431 Exchange’s fight for justice and equality paved the way for dreamers like me to make a difference, underscoring education’s transformative power.”
Zachary Crymes:
A Calling to Serve in Law Enforcement and Help Others
Enjoying his career in law enforcement in Northeast Louisiana, Zachary Crymes, a sheriff’s deputy, is seeking to serve the community in a larger sense by obtaining a degree in criminal justice.
“I feel God is leading me to one day run for sheriff,” he says.
Even when he is off-duty, Zachary’s desire to help others is paramount. His empathy and commitment to serving led him to create Saving Grace Life Center, a non-profit that provides free Christian counseling for those seeking a Biblical direction. Helping others, he says, “is what living a successful life is all about.”
Zachary, a single father of four who has custody of his children 50 percent of the year, also devotes time to church mission trips. His focus on serving others is a value he shares with the 431 Exchange. “I truly understand its passion to help others,” he said. He appreciates that the 431 Exchange “aids others as they invest in themselves (and) … takes a proactive approach to do this as large as possible.”