Donnell Harvey Returns to High School Alma Mater to Announce $10 Million Scholarship Fund for Underprivileged Students in STEM
MACON, GEORGIA — In a formal ceremony held Monday at Central High School, former NBA player Donnell Harvey announced a $10 million personal scholarship fund aimed at supporting underprivileged students pursuing careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Harvey, a first-round draft pick in 2000 who played for teams including the Denver Nuggets and Chicago Bulls, established the Donnell Harvey STEM Legacy Initiative to address educational inequality in his hometown. The fund will provide full tuition coverage for 50 qualified applicants annually over the next decade, with a priority on candidates from single-parent households. Harvey cited his own upbringing as a catalyst for the initiative, emphasizing the role of mentorship in his career. The announcement was met with a standing ovation from faculty, students, and local officials in attendance. Applications open via a dedicated portal beginning June 1, with the first cohort of scholars expected to enroll in the fall of next year.