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UMD Scholarship in honor of George Floyd, Jr.

A call for racial justice

UMD announces a UMD scholarship that honors George Floyd

On June 5, 2020, I announced a new scholarship honoring George Perry Floyd, Jr.

Floyd, who had five children and two grandchildren, grew up in Houston and moved to Minneapolis in 2014, where he worked as a truck driver and security guard. On May 25, 2020, he was killed by a Minneapolis police officer who kneeled on Floyd's neck for almost 9 minutes. During Floyd's memorial service, universities nationwide were called upon to create scholarships in his honor to help create a more just and equitable world.

State and national events over the last few months have once again put a spotlight on how much the lives of Black and African American people truly do matter and on how much work still needs to be done to address social injustice and racism towards these communities. I want to assure you that UMD is committed to taking impactful and measurable actions to provide a safe and welcoming campus for all.
Goal 2 of the UMD Strategic Plan to “advance equity, diversity, inclusiveness, and social justice within the campus community” is and will remain a top priority for us moving forward. Visit our campus climate page to learn more about UMD's Strategic Initiatives and Goals and also our 2020-2021 Diversity and Inclusion Action Steps.

The Scholarship in Honor of George Floyd Jr supports undergraduate students at UMD. To the maximum extent possible, preference will be given to students who will enhance the diversity of the student body as described by the University. In evaluating student body diversity, after the eligible pool of candidates is selected, an additional consideration will be given to Black or African American students if they are underrepresented at UMD. Eligible students, including those with financial need and those who have been victims of police violence, will be considered for the scholarship. Your gift will honor the memory of George Floyd by supporting underrepresented students, including the Black or African American leaders of tomorrow.

Thank you for your continued support of UMD and for your commitment to creating a campus climate that truly welcomes and supports all members of our campus community.

With sincere commitment and appreciation,

Lendley C. Black
Chancellor