Three Morehouse Scholars to Receive Scholarship Funded by Comedian Kevin Hart

Three Morehouse scholars were recently named among 18 recipients of a new $600,000 UNCF scholarship funded by actor and comedian Kevin Hart.

The Help From The Hart Charity Scholarship, which is designated for graduates of KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) Public Schools, supports high-achieving students who demonstrate leadership talent and need financial assistance to pursue their college degrees.

The Morehouse recipients are sophomore Wayne Fuller and freshman Willie Smalls, both of Philadelphia, and freshman Latron Fleet of Baltimore.

Hart joined forces with KIPP, a national network of 224 public charter schools, and UNCF to offer the award. “I just wanted to do my part in providing opportunities for our future leaders … and show support for HBCUs,” Hart said in a statement. "Education and knowledge are powerful.” 

The 18 students selected for the scholarship attended KIPP schools in Arkansas, Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Houston, New Orleans, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. Their scholarships are renewable based on need. 

“Nothing brings me greater joy than to see the hard work of these18 KIPP students recognized by Kevin Hart and UNCF through this generous scholarship program,” said John Fisher, chair of the KIPP Foundation Board of Directors. “We are incredibly grateful to both UNCF and Kevin Hart for their partnership and support to help our students thrive in college and achieve their dreams.”

There are more than 1,300 KIPP graduates currently enrolled at HBCUs nationwide, including Morehouse, Xavier University, Tuskegee University, Spelman College, Lincoln University and many other campuses.

“Together, Kevin and KIPP have made an investment that will have a significant impact,” said UNCF CEO and President Michael L. Lomax. “We can’t thank them enough for their support.”

Hart’s scholarship donation follows similar gifts to HBCU students from renowned celebrities. In July, Morehouse scholar Kameron Willis was one of eight students nationwide to receive a scholarship from Beyoncé’s 2018-2019 Homecoming Scholars Award Program. Each student received $25,000 from the award-winning music icon and actress.