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Arieana Colbert Akerman Scholarship Award

Young scholar and former foster youth wins Akerman scholarship

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August 26, 2019

Each year since 2016, law firm and National CASA/GAL partner Akerman LLP has granted a scholarship to help young adults who have spent time in foster care as they continue their academic journey. Scholars receive $2,500 annually to help them pursue post-secondary education at an accredited university, college or technical school.

We are delighted to announce this year’s Akerman Scholarship winner: Arieana Colbert, a former foster youth associated with the CASA of East Central Illinois program in Charleston, Illinois. Arieana, who entered foster care at age 6 and eventually aged out of the system, will attend the University of Illinois starting this fall. Her goal is to work in the medical field.

Arieana accepted her award with a speech at our annual conference in Atlanta. She brought her CASA advocate of four years, Asha Dixon, to cheer her on.

We congratulate Arieana, and thank Asha, CASA of East Central Illinois, and Illinois CASA for their support of children and youth in their state. We’re also deeply grateful to Akerman for their enduring commitment to removing barriers to success for youth who have spent time in foster care.

The Akerman Scholarship is part of Akerman’s $1 million pledge to National CASA/GAL. If you know of a young person who may qualify, check back early next year for an opportunity to nominate them.