The African American Mayors Association (AAMA) Scholars Awards is a prestigious financial and professional development program supporting five HBCU students (2 undergraduate and 3 graduate). Focused on majors like policy, governance, technology, and healthcare, the program provides a $5,000 scholarship and fully funded travel to the AAMA Scholars Summit in Washington, DC, on April 9-10, 2026. Applicants must maintain a 3.0 GPA and demonstrate a commitment to community leadership. The program connects the next generation of Black leaders with current mayors and policy experts through high-level mentorship and networking opportunities.
AAMA Kevin Johnson Presidential Scholarship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Sponsor | African American Mayors Association (AAMA) |
| Number of Awards | 5 (2 Undergraduate, 3 Graduate) |
| Scholarship Value | $5,000 + Travel Costs |
| Eligible Institutions | Accredited HBCUs |
| Minimum GPA | 3.0 on a 4.0 scale |
| Application Deadline | February 1, 2026 |
AAMA Kevin Johnson Presidential Scholarship 2026
The AAMA Scholars program is designed to empower students who are dedicated to shaping the future of urban governance and public policy.
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By bridging the gap between academic study and practical leadership, AAMA ensures that HBCU students are at the forefront of driving innovation in their communities.
Benefits of the AAMA Kevin Johnson Presidential Scholarship 2026
Tier 1: AAMA Scholar Distinction (Up to $5,000 + Full Travel)
- Academic Stipend: A $5,000 award directly supporting tuition, books, and academic fees.
- Scholars Summit: Fully covered travel and registration for the AAMA Annual Conference in Washington, DC (April 9-10, 2026).
Tier 2: Leadership & Mentorship Benefits
- Mayoral Mentorship: Direct access and mentorship from African American mayors and industry leaders in healthcare and technology.
- Professional Networking: Exclusive invitations to high-level governance events and networking sessions within the association.
Tier 3: Recognition and Engagement
- Inclusive Governance Honors: Formal recognition as an AAMA Scholar, highlighting a commitment to community impact.
- Community Advocacy: Opportunities to share research or personal insights regarding career aspirations in policy and society.
Eligibility Requirements for the Kevin Johnson Presidential Scholarship 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher and a strong record of community engagement.
- Study Status: Must be a full-time student (Undergraduate or Graduate) currently enrolled at an accredited HBCU.
- Visa Status: Open to students authorized to study in the United States and attend the DC summit.
- Program Admission: Must be pursuing a major in political science, public policy, governance, technology, healthcare, or a related field.
How to Apply for the Kevin Johnson Presidential Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program: Prepare your application package including a current resume and official academic transcripts from your HBCU.
- Automatic Evaluation: Secure a letter of recommendation from a professor or community leader who can speak to your leadership potential.
- Eligibility Assessment: Create a 2-minute video personal statement describing your career goals and interest in public policy, governance, or healthcare.
- Notification of Award: Submit all materials by the deadline. Winners will be selected based on academic merit and their potential to impact their communities.
Application Deadline: February 1, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many scholarships are available for 2026?
AAMA is offering five scholarships in total: two for undergraduate students and three for graduate students.
2. Do I have to attend an HBCU to apply?
Yes, eligibility is strictly limited to full-time students currently enrolled at an accredited Historically Black College or University (HBCU).
3. What is the minimum GPA requirement?
Applicants must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
4. Which majors are eligible for the African American Mayors AssociationA Scholars Awards?
Eligible majors include political science, public policy, governance, technology, healthcare, and closely related fields.
5. What are the dates for the mandatory DC Summit?
The African American Mayors Association Scholars Summit takes place during the Annual Conference in Washington, DC, on April 9-10, 2026.
6. Are travel expenses covered for the conference?
Yes, the African American Mayors Association Scholars Award covers the travel costs for recipients to attend the summit in Washington, DC.
7. What should be included in the video personal statement?
The 2-minute video should describe your career goals and your specific interest in policy, governance, technology, or healthcare.
8. Who should write my letter of recommendation?
The letter must come from either a professor at your current institution or a recognized community leader.
9. Can I use the $5,000 for non-tuition expenses?
The scholarship is intended to support tuition and general academic expenses necessary for your degree completion.
10. When will I find out if I have been selected?
While the deadline is February 1, selection typically occurs in the weeks following so that travel arrangements for the April summit can be finalized.
