By Ashley M. Williams
Trinity Times Correspondent

As I reflect on my decades-long and often challenging journey to earning my college degree last May, I realize that Trinity Washington University diploma would have been difficult to complete without the D.C. Futures Scholarship.

My higher education journey began in 2003 at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. At the time, I was more focused on socializing and making friends than academics — and my grades reflected it. After graduating from Washington’s Spingarn High School with a 3.9 GPA, no one was more disappointed in my performance than I was. By the end of my sophomore year, my GPA had dropped to 2.5, and I began to question whether college was the right path for me.

During the summer break of my second year, I received heartbreaking news: my father had been diagnosed with a terminal illness. As his only child, I returned home to care for him, and school had to take a backseat. On May 16, 2006, I also lost the woman who raised me — my paternal grandmother, Hilda H. Johnson. Her death devastated me, and grief consumed my thoughts. School felt irrelevant.

Despite the emotional turmoil, I used the remaining scholarship funds I had to attend the University of the District of Columbia. I changed my major to TV production and found myself falling in love with school again. But financial instability once again interrupted my education. I began working at a special-needs school, where I discovered a passion for helping children in my community. That work gave me purpose, and I remained in the special education field for more than 15 years.

Looking back, I feel proud of overcoming what once seemed like insurmountable obstacles. The path that began more than 20 years ago finally led me to a place I never imagined I would reach.

For years, I struggled to finish my degree — until everything changed when I saw a social media post from a friend who had graduated from The Catholic University of America. She shared her experience with the D.C. Futures Scholarship, a program that helps District of Columbia residents attend college with little to no debt and offers monthly stipends. Intrigued, I decided to learn more.

The prospect of earning a degree without student loan debt was too good to ignore. I applied to Trinity Washington University, mainly because of its proximity to my grandfather’s home in Northeast D.C. The flexibility of online classes allowed me to care for him while pursuing my education. My grandfather, a strong supporter of my education, always told me, “Nothing beats a fail but a try.” His encouragement, along with the legacy of my late grandmother — who always urged me to finish what I started — pushed me to give my dream one more try.

The D.C. Futures Scholarship gave me the financial support I needed to balance school and caregiving. It covered my tuition and offered a monthly stipend, easing my financial burden and allowing me to focus on academics.

My grandmother’s words, “The only failure is not trying,” became a guiding force. Each time I faced a challenge, I thought of her advice and kept pushing forward. Every small victory made the long journey worthwhile.

Thanks to the scholarship and the love of my “village,” I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and media studies last May. The D.C. Futures Scholarship played a major role in making that possible.

This scholarship has been life changing. It’s not just about earning a degree — it’s about breaking barriers, seizing opportunities and honoring the legacy of perseverance passed down by my grandparents. I’m filled with gratitude and excitement for the future.

Looking ahead, I want to use my education to make a positive impact in my community. Every challenge I’ve faced has prepared me for this moment, and I’m ready for what’s next. I’m determined to help others just as I’ve been helped — to show that dreams are achievable, no matter how long the journey.

Without a doubt, I am a walking, talking success story.

The D.C. Futures Scholarship has also made an immense difference for many others, including Kia Ross, a Trinity senior studying journalism and media studies. She called the scholarship a savior for students like herself and reflected on her dream of not just attending college but earning a degree.

“I’ve always wanted to attend college, but not just attend — I wanted a degree,” Ross said. “The sense of accomplishment to be able to show my son, ‘Mommy did this for us.’ Graduation day will be my biggest accomplishment.”

Her journey wasn’t easy, but the program helped her persevere. Ross recalls struggling in her first class to speak up during discussions.

“It was taught by Professor [Linita] Shannon. She really motivated me to push through,” Ross said. “I found myself struggling to express myself when speaking up in classes. Professor Shannon assured me that my voice matters, and my perspective should be shared. That was all the motivation I needed to openly participate and dialogue with my classmates during group discussions.”

Thanks to that encouragement, Ross finished the class with an A and gained the confidence to persist in her courses.

Established in 2021 with funding from the American Rescue Plan under D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser’s administration, the D.C. Futures Scholarship provides financial aid and mentorship to District residents pursuing associate or bachelor’s degrees at Trinity Washington University, The Catholic University of America or the University of the District of Columbia.

The program has supported hundreds of D.C. residents in earning degrees and has significantly eased the burden of tuition. During the 2022–23 school year, 1,327 students participated in the program, saving nearly $4 million in tuition. As of 2025, nearly 1,000 students — many of them juggling work, family and school — are benefitting from the initiative. The program has empowered residents who once had to put college on hold.

However, in fall 2024, the program faced a critical funding shortage and was at risk of losing its resources. To ensure that students can continue completing their degrees, the program needs renewed funding from the D.C. Council. Without it, many students will face uncertainty.

As it stands, only current D.C. Futures participants were eligible to apply for funding for the 2025-26 academic year and the program wasn’t accepting new applicants, putting its future in limbo.

“It is challenging to provide statistics when more than 800 students are trying to make it to graduation,” said Joelle M. Goode, executive director of JMG Productions, a D.C. Futures program affiliate. “With this new [Trump] administration and the challenges the District is facing, we are again just trying to save the program.”

Vernae Taylor, a college success coach who has been part of D.C. Futures since its inception, said it’s been a privilege to witness students transform over the years.

“Having a front-row seat to the transformation of our students, three years later, after overcoming all the odds stacked against them, is a true testament to their resilience,” Taylor said. “It’s our collective commitment to continue nurturing dreams that will reshape future generations.”

The D.C. Futures Scholarship not only supports tuition, but also provides stipends, emergency funds and mentorship — vital resources for students like me. For those who’ve overcome so many obstacles, this program is a bridge to a brighter future.

Applications for the 2025–26 academic year were due Aug. 15, and I sincerely hope the District continues to support this life-changing initiative.

For many students — especially returning adults, single parents and caregivers — D.C. Futures is not just financial aid. It’s fuel for hope. It’s a second or even third chance to fulfill a dream once deferred.

What is certain is the impact this program has already made.