Inspiring: Five Baltimore Students Just Secured $200K in Scholarships
Five Baltimore Students Just Secured $200K Scholarships—and Their Stories Will Inspire
In a city that’s long known how to turn pressure into diamonds, five Baltimore City high school students just had their lives changed—forever.
On Thursday, the students were surprised with full-ride scholarships to McDaniel College, each valued at a stunning $200,000. Yeah, you read that right—college paid for. In full.
It’s a moment that hits different in this economy, with college tuition climbing like gas prices in July. But thanks to a powerful partnership between McDaniel College and the CollegeBound Foundation, these young scholars can now walk into the next chapter of their lives without the heavy weight of student debt on their shoulders.
The Surprises and the Smiles
Douglass High’s Malver Canales was the first to get the life-changing news. Ranked second in his class, Malver’s grind clearly didn’t go unnoticed. Next up was Ace Foly Ehke, a senior at Baltimore Polytechnic Institute. Ace is more than just a scholar—he’s a National Honor Society member and a library volunteer who gives back, even while staying on top of his books.
“It’s great to know I have the opportunity to have my entire tuition just covered,” Ehke told Channel 11. “Tuition is not cheap—it’s extremely expensive. So it’s good to know I have options now.”
The scholarships cover all four years of tuition. And while room, board, and books aren’t included, officials say additional financial aid should help fill in those gaps.
Western High School’s Skye Hammond was also on the surprise list. She’s headed toward a future in nursing, and now she can focus on just that. “This is an awesome opportunity,” she said. “I don’t have to think that much about financials—I can fully focus on my future and education.”
McDaniel spokesperson Cheryl Knauer said the school looks for more than just grades:
“These are students who are not only academically excellent, but also give back to their community and school. We really look for a well-rounded student who can be an ambassador when they come to campus.”
This isn’t just about scholarships—it’s about legacy. About investment. About giving Baltimore students the real shot they’ve earned. And let’s keep it 100: it’s about time.
To the five scholars—your city is proud of you. And to anyone out here grinding in the shadows, just know: your light is coming.