Clark Atlanta University Pragati Scholarship Fund Receives Support for GRE Training

01/08/2020

ATLANTA, GA – January 8, 2020 – Clark Atlanta University (CAU) Office of Research and Sponsored Programs recently raised $5,000 to facilitate the academic and financial mobility of the 2019-2020 Pragati Scholarship Fund Scholars.  Individuals, businesses, alumni, and organizations donated to cover costs for a 5-week Graduate Record Exam (GRE) prep course for students considering graduate studies in psychology.  

Supporters enthusiastically responded to an appeal from alumna Lisa Wilson, CC ’86, Associate Vice President, CAU Research & Sponsored Programs.  Contributors included the Clark Atlanta University Alumni Association (CAUAA), represented by national president Devin White, CAU ’95, CAU ’00; the Atlanta Chapter of CAUAA, represented by immediate past president Ermina Hill, CC ’83; Steve Carnegie, adjunct professor, CAU School of Business, CC ’85 and AU ’87; Robert LeGrande II, president, The Digital Decision, CC ’86; and Dr. James E. Collins II of Collins Family Dentistry.

Established with a $50,000 donation in 2018 by past business school faculty member Dr. Suresh Prabhu, the Pragati Scholarship Fund was created to equip CAU Psychology majors with the academic and financial resources required to pursue graduate degrees. 

CAU President Dr. George T. French, Jr. expressed his pleasure on the show of support for the scholarship fund.  “This support demonstrates the commitment few dedicated alumni, faculty and members of the local business community who are invested in the educational advancement and continued success of our students during their academic career and beyond.  Their generosity enables us to prepare graduates of this program to change the world,” he stated.

“Investing in our Children’s future is best way to honor our past," said Mr. LeGrande II. “ The Digital Decision is proud to support Clark Atlanta University in its longstanding and continuing efforts to produce future business leaders.”

“In keeping with our motto, ‘Find a Way or Make One’, I reached out to my friends and CAU classmates to help raise funds towards this campaign. In a matter of a week, donors gave $5K to support the initiative”, Mrs. Wilson stated.

“As an alumnus and adjunct faculty member at CAU, I have a profound sense of pride for my alma mater. With that pride comes a unique perspective and commitment to support initiatives that promote academic advancement,” said Mr. Carnegie.  

“We recognize that our contributions will have a long-term impact for students who may not have access to funding beyond their current financial obligation,” added Mr. White. 

According to professor of Psychology and nominated fund trustee, Dr. Medha Talpade, training and preparation for the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is a key component of the scholarship.   Psychology majors pursuing a graduate degree are required to take both the GRE General Test and the GRE Subject Test. The GRE score is an important factor in determining acceptance for graduate admissions. Offering training for this exam at no cost provides students with the required leverage for their academic advancement.

The Pragati Scholarship has supported two five-week GRE Prep courses which have resulted in leveraging the opportunities for psychology students to enter graduate school.   “Our hope is that this investment will leverage opportunities for CAU’s 300 psychology majors, and especially the seniors who have indicated their intention to apply to graduate school.  Funds that support this scholarship cover cost which have often been a barrier to graduate study for our students,” she continued.

For more information on the Pragati Scholarship Fund, contact Dr. Medha Talpade in the Department of Psychology at Clark Atlanta University in Knowles Hall on Beckwith Street or by calling 770-851-2722.

About Clark Atlanta University

Clark Atlanta University (CAU) is a leading research institution of higher education, offering 38 exciting areas of study at bachelor’s, master’s, specialists, and doctoral levels.  Established in 1988 by the historic consolidation of Atlanta University (1865) and Clark College (1869), CAU continues a 150-year legacy rooted in the African-American tradition and focused on the future. Through global innovation, transformative educational experiences, and high-value engagement, CAU cultivates lifted lives that transform the world.

Learn more at www.cau.edu .