The LeBron James Family Foundation and the University of Akron announced Thursday that the 1,100 children currently enrolled in the I Promise program, sponsored by the King, will receive full scholarships to the Ohio University.
“I think it’s probably one of the best things I’ve ever been apart of,” James, who did not attend college, said to ESPN. “This is very special to me. As a kid growing up in the inner city and as an African American kid, you don’t really think past high school because it’s not possible or your family can’t support you. For us to be able to do something like this … it means so much.”
The scholarships will be renewable over all four years the students are enrolled at the university. The university and James are preparing to make a potential $87 million investment.
Every single kid who finish my program will go to college for FREE! #Tryingtomakeadifference @LJFamFoundation
— LeBron James (@KingJames) August 13, 2015
Future looks brighter for so many. Thanks @KingJames, @LJFamFoundation & JP Morgan Chase pic.twitter.com/FcJHESOor0
— Scott Scarborough (@PresScarborough) August 14, 2015
We are proud to partner with President Scarborough, @uakron & @Chase for our kids & their future #IPROMISE #LJFFCOE pic.twitter.com/2PLZCClU5f
— LJ's Fam Foundation (@LJFamFoundation) August 13, 2015
By Glenn Erby
