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 Christa Funk | Jan 22, 2025 | News
I find myself reflecting on what was an eventful year for Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars (DRDFS). 2024 was a year marked by growth, innovation, and meaningful connections that have strengthened our foundation and set the stage for even greater impact in the years to come.
Celebrating 2024’s Key Moments
One of the most significant milestones this year was securing national funding from the Education Credit Management Corporation (ECMC) through the FAFSA Student Support Strategy Award. This grant enabled us to launch initiatives like the FAFSA Ambassador Program, which encouraged peer-to-peer mentorship to boost FAFSA completion rates in Southeast Michigan. This initiative aligned with the U.S. Department of Education’s goal to increase FAFSA submissions, especially among first-time applicants.
This achievement wouldn’t have been possible without the expertise of Lauren Geiger, our Development and Grants Specialist. Lauren’s efforts have been instrumental in securing significant funding opportunities, allowing us to expand our impact and continue supporting students on their educational journeys.
We saw impressive outcomes last year, with 93% of the Class of 2024 enrolled in the Fall semester of college, the highest enrollment rate in recent years, despite a national decline in first-year enrollment. Additionally, 92% of the Class of 2023 persisted from their first to second year, surpassing DRDFS’ average of 86%. What do these numbers tell us? They demonstrate the hard work, perseverance, and dedication of our students, staff, and partners—reflecting the commitment to get our scholars to college, as well as through it successfully. Along with the FAFSA Ambassador Program, we rolled out the Campus Ambassador Program at several colleges to continue to foster engagement and strengthen our alumni’s connection to our mission.
Building a Stronger Future
Strategic investment in our team was a key priority last year. In addition to Lauren Geiger joining DRDFS, we continued to build our team by welcoming Megan LaCross as Development Manager. Megan brings a wealth of talent and expertise and is already helping us enhance the ways we serve our students.
Through funding from the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, we partnered with Kiylise Lowe from The DreamBuilding Consultancy to conduct a comprehensive review of our curriculum. This project involved conversations with 16 key stakeholders, including board members, staff, alumni, and others, to identify areas for improvement and ensure our programs continue to meet the evolving needs of our scholars. The insights we’ve gathered will inform our strategy in 2025, with a strong focus on increasing student engagement and meaningful interactions.
We launched the Opportunity Scholarship in 2024, a new initiative aimed at addressing the financial gaps faced by students. We allocated $50,000 to fund the program, which resulted in ten, one-time scholarships being awarded to students. The response was incredible, with more than 50 students applying for the scholarship. Erin Talbot, our Awards and Alumni Manager, worked closely with the recipients and financial aid offices to ensure the awards were used effectively to advance our scholars’ post-secondary goals.
We’re also increasing the Opportunity Scholarship fund to $75,000 in 2025 and refining the program based on feedback from its first year to provide support to even more students.
The Power of Alumni Engagement
One of the most heartening aspects of the past year was the increased engagement of our alumni. It’s been a true privilege to see former scholars like Mike Zlonkevicz join the DRDFS Executive Advisory Board, Elijah Daniel contribute to our P&R Committee, and Marketea Abbott and Justin Anagonye-Bahn lead the FAFSA Ambassador campaign.
These are just a few of the many alumni whose involvement speaks volumes about the lasting impact of DRDFS and the power of paying it forward. As we continue to grow and evolve, I’m inspired by the commitment of our alumni to empower the next generation of students.
Looking Forward: 2025 and Beyond
The lessons we learned in 2024—particularly the importance of embracing new approaches based on direct feedback from our students—will guide us as we continue to innovate and adapt to the changing needs of our scholars.
We’ll focus on fostering even stronger connections with our students and alumni, refining our programs to increase engagement, and continuing to provide the support and resources our scholars need to achieve their goals. We’ll also continue to grow our scholarship programs and expand our outreach to ensure that more students have access to the opportunities that will shape their futures.
2025 promises to be an exciting year of growth, impact, and opportunity for DRDFS. I look forward to working alongside our dedicated team, incredible scholars, and supportive community as we expand access to post-secondary success.
by Christa Funk | Dec 13, 2024 | News
Our team at Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars (DRDFS) places a priority on collaboration. Working together and sharing ideas isn’t just a great help for students looking to attain career skills, it’s also a process we believe strengthens our organization and our support for students. That’s why Executive Director Christa Funk and Program Director Jill Marecki attended the 2024 National College Attainment Network (NCAN) Conference in Anaheim, CA — to listen, learn and share insights with peers across the country focused on helping students not only get to college but through college as well.
Strengthened Focus on Career Preparation
At DRDFS, we are focused on helping our students not only succeed in college but also seamlessly transition to their future careers. We believe that a post-secondary degree or credential is just the beginning — students also need to develop and demonstrate essential workplace skills to thrive in the professional world. In 2024, success includes earning a degree and being prepared to excel in their career pathway.
Representatives at NCAN — including educators, administrators and corporate partners seeking to hire recent college graduates — discussed the essential qualities they consider for long-term professional success. Aligned with these qualities, we identified four main areas that we consider key for our students’ career readiness:
• Coachability: Can students learn and implement new concepts and workplace-specific skills when paired with a mentor or supervisor?
• Attention to Detail: Do students double- and triple-check their work for errors or potential improvements?
• Ability to Work Independently: Can new grads take on a challenging task without needing step-by-step directions?
• Critical Thinking: When posed with a unique challenge, are new hires able to solve the issue by finding a unique solution?
By reinforcing these skills at the high school level and continuing to develop them in college, students learn to be adaptable and confident in navigating the challenges of their post-secondary and career pathway. We believe that adaptability and confidence can give students a head start in an increasingly competitive job market, improving early professional success.
Executive Director Christa Funk and Program Director Jill Marecki attended the 2024 National College Attainment Network Conference.
Enhancing Support through CareerSpring
A critical component of making the connection between career goals and post-secondary education is DRDFS’ partnership with CareerSpring, a nonprofit that helps students explore pathways and guides them through the process of applying for and securing college internships as well as their first career role after post-secondary graduation. At the high school level, CareerSpring connects college-ready students with career path interest surveys and an extensive video library of real professionals sharing their pathway and role. College students are offered the same resources as the high school level, layered with opportunities for 1-on-1 advising from industry professionals, interview coaching, resume review and even a job placement board where corporate partners post jobs or internships on their exclusive platform.
CareerSpring’s hands-on approach allows students to identify and prioritize their post-high school opportunities and, once they’re in college, take the steps to turn their biggest career goals into reality. These resources give access to meaningful employment opportunities with employer partners, helping to build a strong career pipeline for DRDFS students.
Looking Ahead: Career Readiness Paves a Path for Success
If there’s one takeaway from the NCAN Conference: it’s that students — and DRDFS — need to continue to prioritize adaptability. At DRDFS, we’re already prioritizing this by actively engaging our alumni to ensure they’re equipped with the transferable skills that today’s job market demands. As the workforce evolves, we continue to adapt our programs to help students and graduates stay ahead of the curve and succeed in their careers.
By taking advantage of new information and strategies learned at NCAN, DRDFS can reinforce the foundation for future students who come through our program. Inspired by the NCAN workshops and networking with educators from across the country, DRDFS is better positioned than ever to advance our vision: to provide equitable opportunities for students to earn a post-secondary credential, reach their goals and strengthen our communities.
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.
by DRDFS | Jul 31, 2024 | News
2024 Spark Award honoree Kelli McCloud is an advisor whose impact and influence spans three decades
The DRDFS Spark Award is presented each year to the individual who best embodies the DRDFS’ founding principle of igniting that spark of inspiration and motivation in students that gets them excited about their education and passionate about what it means for their future.
That’s something 2024 Spark Award recipient Kelli McCloud has been doing for nearly three decades. Kelli, who has taught at Adlai E. Stevenson High School for her entire career and has been a DRDFS advisor for the last 11 years,
has always been driven to make sure that no student misses out on an opportunity. She is passionate about helping young people, especially those who, as she says “just need a little extra guidance or access to resources” to achieve big things.
So, when DRDFS came to Stevenson, she was the perfect choice.
“I was an AVID college coordinator, so I was a natural fit to be the DRDFS liaison. I honestly didn’t know anything about DRDFS when they first came in, but I immediately loved the work that they were doing for students.”
It’s a testament to the extraordinary work that Kelli has done for her students over the years that the Spark Award presentation ceremony was filled with firsthand testimonials from grateful students.
“I appreciate how intentional and involved Ms. McCloud is with us”
“She is the best thing to happen to us”
“Ms. McCloud is one of the best supporters for my education. She constantly builds me up and has guided me. I’m so thankful to have her as my advisor.”
For Kelli, those words are extraordinarily meaningful. “To hear those things your students are saying about you is so humbling. You don’t get into this profession for accolades and attention—my bucket is full when students succeed. But to receive a prestigious award like this is so special and so unexpected.”
Notably, this is the first time the Spark Award has been awarded to an advisor, a testament to Kelli’s impact and influence on so many young people. It’s clear that with DRDFS, Kelli is an institutional partner that shares her passion for changing young lives. “My job is really easy because of the people who run this program. I could talk all day about all the wonderful things DRDFS does.”
She also points out how much DRDFS has grown and evolved over the years, crediting the generosity of donors for making that growth possible. “DRDFS has more resources today than ever, and that’s a credit to donors, whose contributions are so important. I’ve seen firsthand the impact those resources make in the lives of students and families.”
For Kelli, the most rewarding part of working with DRDFS is assisting students who didn’t even realize that those opportunities were available to them—and then taking those opportunities and running with them. “It’s not just about them realizing that they have expanded their horizons—but that the sky’s the limit.”
“Watching them reach that potential and achieve incredible educational, personal, and professional goals is why teachers do what we do.”
In her acceptance speech, Kelli spoke eloquently about why her relationship with DRDFS has been so positive—and about the impact the program has had on her students.
“I am constantly telling my students to never shut a door. Don’t ever say no to something because you never know what it will turn into. Don’t let a test score or financial limitations dictate what you can do or where you can go. Reach out and be willing to seek and accept help. Everyone needs a hand up.”
“DRDFS is a program that opens doors for students they wouldn’t have even known were there. It’s about access and opportunity, but also about providing the kind of guidance and support that doesn’t go away when they graduate from high school.”
She noted that when DRDFS students graduate from high school, it’s not just “good luck and goodbye.” When they go to college, they have a network of coaches and a robust support system, from professional mentors to alums 
and fellow students, as well as internship opportunities, and even financial support.
“DRDFS really cares about these students and that shows. And that creates lasting connections. There are so many DRDFS program alumni who are still a part of this program. They stay connected and they are still helping and making an impact.”
“These students are going to college and they are going to graduate. They have great careers and rich and fulfilling lives ahead of them. And it’s all because so many people who believe in this program and have continued supporting this program and putting money into something even when they don’t personally see the reward. I’m here to tell you, the reward is great.”
“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.