by Grace Verhines | May 6, 2025 | News
Each spring, thousands of high school seniors across Southeast Michigan celebrate a major milestone: deciding where they’ll go next—whether it’s a four-year university, community college, or a skilled trade program.
But between graduation and the first day of class, life can bring unexpected hurdles. Some students who plan to attend college face challenges that can delay or derail their journey—not because they lack drive, but because they need a little more support.
This is more common than many realize. In fact, researchers estimate that 10% to 40% of college-bound students with high financial need don’t make it to campus in the fall—a phenomenon known as “summer melt.”
At Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars (DRDFS), we’re here to change that. We help ensure that students don’t just dream about their future—they arrive ready to begin it.
Laying the Groundwork
DRDFS partners with 16 high schools across Southeast Michigan. Through our Next Level Scholars™ program, we begin supporting scholars in 10th grade—long before they’ve chosen a post-secondary path.
By senior year, our scholars have toured campuses, received one-on-one coaching and learned how to complete the critical steps toward enrollment. They’ve spent years preparing for what’s ahead.
With a sound foundation and preparation, our goal is to help scholars to the final stretch.
Summer Support
Starting in May, DRDFS post-secondary coaches conduct a detailed survey with every graduating scholar. We collect confirmed post-secondary decisions, identify which steps have been completed and address where additional support is needed.
And that’s just the beginning! Our work with scholars continues through:
- 1:1 Outreach. Coaches meet with scholars to talk through forms, deadlines and next steps.
- Timely Nudges. We send simple, clear reminders via text and email, relevant to where each scholar is in the process.
- Peer Introductions. We connect scholars with DRDFS peers who are already on their future campuses. These connections help make the transition feel more familiar and create a safe space to ask questions that might otherwise go unspoken.
- Ongoing Events. We keep programming going through the summer to help scholars stay engaged and supported, even when school is out.
These initiatives aren’t just support—they’re a launchpad, ensuring every scholar has the guidance, confidence, and community they need to take their next step and thrive.
Staying the Course Together
With the right support, scholars don’t just make it to campus—they show up confident, prepared, and ready to succeed.
That outcome isn’t automatic. It takes a program designed to stay with students after graduation, and a team committed to helping them navigate whatever life throws their way.
At DRDFS, we meet the moment with action—offering guidance, connection, and encouragement when it matters most. Because consistent support leads to confident steps—and we’re proud to walk alongside our scholars every step of the way.
by Grace Verhines | Apr 17, 2025 | News
When 17-year-old Joseph Emmanuel stepped onto the stage at the Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars’ (DRDFS) 12th Annual Celebration Luncheon, he felt a buzz of energy in the room.
It was a full house at the University of Detroit Mercy with educators, supporters, and community leaders all there to celebrate. Cameras were pointed his way. He was the featured scholar speaker, standing at the podium, script in hand.
As he started sharing about his goals, his journey, and the culture that shaped him, the nerves faded and something deeper took hold.
“I felt empowered,” he said, thinking back. “Everyone was listening. My words meant something.”
Joseph is a senior at Henry Ford II High School in Sterling Heights and part of the DRDFS Next Level Scholars program. He’s also proudly Chaldean American — a core part of who he is and a big part of the story he brought to the stage that day.
“Being Chaldean means a lot to me. It’s about holding onto traditions, honoring my family, and knowing I’m part of something bigger,” he said. “Getting to share that during the event made it even more special.”
Joseph’s story is one of discovery. He’s planning to attend Wayne State University in the fall, and while he’s leaning toward engineering, that decision didn’t come overnight. It came from years of little moments — building things, messing with computers, spending hours with LEGO sets, just figuring out how things work.
That thoughtful, curious spirit was front and center during his speech. He talked about what it’s like to be on the edge of a new chapter, and how it takes courage to step into the unknown.
Part of that courage, he says, came from being in the Next Level Scholars program.
“DRDFS helped me slow down and think ahead,” Joseph told us. “They encouraged us to imagine ourselves ten years from now. To think about the financial side of things, the emotional side. To ask what kind of life we want to build.”
Through college visits, hands-on workshops and one-on-one coaching, Joseph started making choices with more intention. He picked up practical skills like how to budget, how to carry himself professionally, and how to speak in front of a crowd.
“I never thought I’d be up there speaking in front of hundreds of people,” he said. “But DRDFS helped me build that confidence. That was huge for me.”
The Celebration Luncheon also gave him a chance to connect with business leaders and DRDFS supporters. One of those people was Bob Riney, President & CEO of Henry Ford Health, who delivered the keynote. Talking with him gave Joseph a new perspective.
“When you meet people like that, you realize they started somewhere, too,” he said. “They were kids once. They had to figure things out just like we do.”
That idea kept coming up in Joseph’s speech — how growth isn’t always neat or easy. Joseph said one of the most powerful things DRDFS gave him was the space to figure things out, try new things, and learn along the way.
And the growth hasn’t just been academic. Through DRDFS, Joseph has stretched himself in other ways — meeting new people, seeing new places, and learning from mentors.
“Every time I met someone new or saw something I hadn’t seen before, it stuck with me,” he said.
As he looks ahead, Joseph is most excited about the person he’s becoming. Not just what he studies or where he works, but what he learns about himself. If he could go back and give his sophomore-year self a little advice, it would be this:
“Listen more. Ask questions. Look forward, not back,” he said. “That’s how you figure out who you are.”
At DRDFS, no two journeys are the same. But what ties scholars like Joseph together is a shared sense of purpose — a determination to explore what’s possible and to make their own choices.
As Joseph reminded everyone in the room that day: “The world keeps moving whether you’re ready or not. So keep going. The choice is yours.”
by Grace Verhines | Feb 26, 2025 | News
Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars (DRDFS) guides students as they explore a broad range of post-secondary options to find the school or opportunity where they will thrive. Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) stand as pillars of academic excellence, cultural empowerment, and social change, nurturing generations of scholars, leaders, and innovators.
Several DRDFS scholars have chosen to attend HBCUs, including Clark Atlanta University, Harris-Stowe University, Norfolk State University, and Spelman College. Through 1:1 coaching, personalized guidance, and financial literacy education, DRDFS equips scholars with tools to confidently navigate the college selection process and succeed in their post-secondary journey.
Bianca Waters, a recent graduate of Spelman College, was the valedictorian of the 2020 Romulus High School 
class. Drawn to the opportunity to attend an out-of-state school near family while embracing new experiences, Spelman was the perfect fit for her. The college provided her with a platform to grow, stay engaged, and deepen her understanding of herself as a Black woman, propelling her to new heights. Bianca credits the DRDFS Next Level Scholars program as a crucial support system that helped ease her transition to college, playing a pivotal role in shaping her educational journey.
“Having that constant engagement from Dollars for Scholars—whether it was a check-in, a virtual event, or just knowing someone cared—meant so much,” Waters said. “Financially it was a lifeline, and beyond that, it was emotional and personal support, too. Dollars for Scholars holds a warm place in my heart. I remember telling my family how grateful I was to be part of an organization that always checked up on me.”
Bianca says Spelman was more than just an educational institution—it was a sisterhood that deeply influenced her personal growth. For her, Spelman blended academic and personal growth, allowing her to explore not only her career aspirations but also her identity.
She said, “It wasn’t just about being African American—it was about embracing the global diversity of Black experiences, which has become a strong foundation I carry into my career. I can bring my whole self into everything I do.”
Bianca’s journey underscores the importance of finding a college that not only meets academic and career goals but also fosters personal growth and a sense of belonging. To support students in making these informed decisions, DRDFS collaborates with key partners to provide valuable resources and guidance. Through its partnership with the Detroit College Access Network (DCAN), DRDFS helps scholars navigate the college selection process with tools like a college match platform that identifies institutions—including HBCUs—that align with their academic and financial needs. As part of its ongoing commitment, DCAN’s HBCU Taskforce, led by Executive Director Cyekeia Lee, is expanding awareness of HBCUs, helping students discover the rich cultural and academic environments they offer.
Lee, who also serves on the DRDFS Executive Advisory Board, emphasized the unique value HBCUs provide: “HBCUs are deeply rooted in culture and serve as powerful amplifiers of Black voices in ways that many universities simply do not,” she said. “Students graduate from HBCUs with a strong foundation, confident in the fact that they don’t need to alter who they are to receive an education.”
As DCAN and DRDFS work together to equip scholars like Bianca with the knowledge, tools, and guidance they need, they help them identify the next step in their academic journey. By doing so, they ensure scholars understand the full spectrum of the educational landscape.
As we celebrate Black History Month, we recognize the rich history and enduring impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities in fostering academic achievement, cultural pride, and leadership. DRDFS remains committed to guiding scholars as they explore HBCUs and other post-secondary opportunities that align with their aspirations and identities. By providing resources, mentorship, and financial support, DRDFS helps ensure that students have the tools they need to make informed decisions about their futures and step confidently into the next chapter of their journeys.
by Grace Verhines | Nov 22, 2024 | News
Students in the Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars (DRDFS) program are incredibly committed to reaching their goals of post-secondary success. However, unexpected obstacles such as a broken laptop, costly car repairs, or needing an expensive set of textbooks can disrupt their journey to and through college.
That’s where the DRDFS Scholar Success Fund plays a critical role: it provides essential support for students facing unforeseen financial obstacles. The Scholar Success Fund steps in to ensure students have the tools and resources required to stay on track and continue striving toward their goals.
The fund has already made a significant difference for many DRDFS students. In 2024 thus far, it has provided over $20,000 in financial support to more than 60 students. This marks an 18% increase from 2023.
Diana, an engineering major and member of the DRDFS Class of 2024, shared how the fund helped her navigate a pivotal moment:
“DRDFS helped me get the laptop I needed for my engineering classes, and now I can stay focused on my goals,” she said.
For Giovanni, a Class of 2023 DRDFS graduate, the Scholar Success Fund provided the support needed to overcome an unexpected financial challenge:
“It made a meaningful difference when I needed it most,” he shared. “The assistance allowed me to stay on track with my education.”
DRDFS post-secondary coaches Lyric Bingham and Tania Vega are instrumental in guiding students like Diana and Giovanni as they transition from high school to college. From FAFSA forms to financial literacy and beyond, Lyric and Tania provide crucial support at every step of their journey. They’ve seen firsthand how the Scholar Success Fund helps students navigate challenges and unlock opportunities.
“The Scholar Success Fund is incredibly impactful for our students,” Bingham said. “It gives them the confidence and resources to keep moving toward their goals.”
This holiday season, we invite our community to support the Scholar Success Fund. Your contribution will directly impact students like Diana and Giovanni, helping them focus on their education and pursue their dreams.
And thanks to our generous Board of Directors, we have secured a matching gift of $10,000 for Giving Tuesday! This means your gift doubles in value and impact as you support our DRDFS scholars on their journey to post-secondary success.
by Grace Verhines | Nov 7, 2024 | News
One of the most intimidating parts of carving out a new chapter and pursuing a post-secondary education for teenagers in 2024 is simply figuring out how — and where — to start. With seemingly countless options and potential financial obstacles, making the decision to continue education beyond high school can be a deeply challenging process.
For students in the metro Detroit area, Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars (DRDFS) and its dedicated Post-Secondary Transition Coaches make the road to higher education a little less bumpy.
One of DRDFS’ goals is to guide students through the complex and sometimes confusing process of transitioning from high school to the next level, whether that means attending college, learning a trade, or entering the military. A great deal of that guidance comes from DRDFS’ two Post-Secondary Transition Coaches, Lyric Bingham and Tania Vega, whose roles focus on building relationships with DRDFS students as they plan for their next steps after high school.
Tania’s journey to becoming a Post-Secondary Transition Coach is a direct testament to the success of DRDFS itself — she is an alumna of the DRDFS program. With the support of DRDFS, Tania became the first person in her family to earn a college degree when she graduated with a Bachelor’s of Business Administration from University of Detroit Mercy in 2021. Two years later, Tania joined DRDFS as a coach. After seeing all DRDFS did for her as a teenager, she is uniquely aware of her role’s importance in shaping the future of a generation of leaders in the metro Detroit area.
“It really has 100 percent come full circle,” said Tania. “I relate a lot to our students, and I think that helps me do my job better. Seeing firsthand the effect DRDFS has on students really influenced me a lot to even apply for this job.”
Although Lyric Bingham wasn’t in the DRDFS program as a teenager, many of her close friends were, and she has seen the unwavering support DRDFS provides its students. Now, Lyric and Tania are able to give back to the younger generation by offering unique perspectives from their own experiences and financial backing from the DRDFS Scholar Success Fund, which can cover nearly any situation a DRDFS student might encounter.
“I think that the Scholar Success Fund is life-changing for our students,” said Lyric. “There’s a difference between supporting students by getting into college and supporting them throughout their entire post-secondary journey, and the Scholar Success Fund really helps.”
“Tania and I can offer support and resources,” she added. “But I like to tell the students: whatever is going to help you stay in school — that’s what the fund is for.”
Beyond the world of academics, Tania and Lyric also go out of their way to support their students in all areas of life. They maintain regular check-ins with students and are always available to sit down and chat, whether the topic is academic, financial, or just about the world in general. These conversations help students feel heard, supported, and most importantly: confident in their journey.
Giovanni from the Class of 2024, who keeps close ties with his coaches, shared just how impactful Tania and Lyric have been in his transition to college:
“The coaches give great advice because they’ve been in our shoes and know how we feel,” he said. “We’re not alone, and they make sure to reassure us that we have people who care and support us in our corner.”
It’s remarkable how much reassurance and encouragement can empower a student to reach their goals. Tania and Lyric, our invaluable Post-Secondary Transition Coaches at DRDFS, show how intentional support can create a lasting, positive impact on a student’s life.
“I grew up without a clue of what I wanted to do, or where I wanted to go in life, until I had the opportunity to join Dollars for Scholars my sophomore year of high school. From visiting campuses, to SAT prep, the guidance I received from the program changed my entire outlook.
“From college tours to financial aid, Dollars for Scholars has greatly impacted my path to higher education. As a first generation college student, deciding where I would want to continue my education and figuring out how I would get there was a difficult process. My family and I lacked the time and transportation necessary to visit schools, and this limited me in figuring out my future.
“When joining Dollars for Scholars, I was eager to visit colleges and earn scholarship money. Being able to look at all the different schools with other students I could relate to was so reassuring. Dollars for Scholars was able to answer my questions about the ins & outs of post-secondary education, as well assist me with applications. This extra help was so motivating.
“Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars is a life-changing program. Before high school, I was going down a path that if most kids took, they’d end up either dropping out of school or going to jail. Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars helped inspire me to get on a better path by showing me how to prepare for college. Hearing other students’ stories made me feel like I could be successful both in high school and post-secondary education.