Dawna J. Colbert and John Fitzpatrick Scholarships in Computing Studies 2026

Application Guidelines 

Technology Concept Group International (TCGi) Foundation is dedicated to connecting black women to meaningful opportunities in technology and computing. Through our work, we aim to diversify the next generation of technology leaders. The TCGi Foundation Scholarship Fund facilitates partnerships with key stakeholders to increase the visibility and representation of black women pursuing degrees in computing.  

The Mission of the TCGI Foundation is to connect black women to opportunities in technology. 

To support our mission, we have established the Dawna J. Colbert and John Fitzpatrick Scholarships in Computing Studies. Dawna and John were beloved members of the TCGi family, and upon their passing (Dawna in 2017 and John in 2021), scholarships were named in their memory. Our goal is to bestow multiple scholarships every year to deserving students studying technology. 

The Vision of the TCGi Foundation is to break down barriers for black women in tech, shifting the mindset of what is possible. 

The Purpose of the TCGi Scholarship Fund is to provide scholarships to deserving high school graduating seniors and current college/university students who intend to pursue a course of study in computing at either a two-year or four-year educational institution. 

TCGi Scholarship Committee will award $2,500 per semester to a Black woman who will be attending a two or four-year institution. If enrolled in a 4-year institution, the scholarship can amount to $10,000. Scholarship funds will be awarded to the student upon evidence of registration at an accredited higher education institution.   

Criteria and eligibility (Dawna J. Colbert Scholarship Fund for graduating high school seniors)   

1.     Applicant must be a U.S. resident.

2.    Applicant must be a graduating high school senior in the year of the award. 

3.    Applicants must have at least a 3. 0 grade point average (or a “B” average). 

4.    Applicant must have a desired college major in Computing, Engineering, or Information Technology.  

5.    Applicants may not be related to any Board of Directors or staff as this presents a conflict of interest. 

Criteria and eligibility (John Fitzpatrick Scholarship Fund for current college and graduate students)   

1.    Applicant must be a U.S. resident.

2.    Applicant must be enrolled in a two or four-year college in the year of the award. 

3.    Applicant must have at least a 3.3 grade point average 

4.    Applicant must have declared a major in Computing, Engineering, or Information Technology. 

5.    Applicants may not be related to any Board of Directors or staff as this presents a conflict of interest. 

General Instructions 

1.    DEADLINE for scholarship applications is March 27, 2026, 11:59 p.m. EST.

2.    Refer to the application process below for a list of the supporting documents needed (i.e., reference forms, evidence of GPA, etc.) Incomplete applications will not be considered. 

3.    If any question does not apply to you in this application, please put N/A in the space. 

4.    All semi-finalists will need to complete a virtual interview with the TCGI Scholarship Committee. Virtual interviews will be held in late March through early April. 

5.    All semi-finalists will be notified in late March regarding the status of their application. 

6.    If you have any questions about the application, please email [email protected]. 

Awardee Media Participation

To amplify the impact of the TCGi Foundation and celebrate the achievements of our scholars, all scholarship recipients will be asked to participate in a brief media engagement. This includes:

1. Recording a short video accepting the scholarship and sharing what the award means to them.

2. Responding to a few questions about their academic journey, career aspirations, and how they plan to contribute to the field of computing.

These materials may be featured in The TCGi Foundation communications, including social media, newsletters, and promotional campaigns. By accepting the scholarship, recipients agree to participate in this media initiative.

Scholarship Presentation for Local Awardees

To further celebrate our scholars and engage with our community, applicants who reside in or near the Savannah, Georgia area will be invited to attend the TCGi Foundation’s annual Golf Charity Event. This event will be held at The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa on May 4, 2026.

Local recipients will be asked to receive their scholarship award in person during the event. This provides an opportunity to honor their achievements publicly and connect with supporters of the TCGi Foundation.

Application Process for High School Seniors:   

Applicant must submit the following items: 

1.    Two (2) letters of recommendation from a choice of high school teachers, administrators, counselors, employers, or an individual with significant knowledge of the applicant’s experience and involvement. 

2.    An official and recent high school transcript with cumulative grade point average and a class standing/rank. 

3.    Personal Essays.

• Please double-check your essay for any typos and grammatical errors. 

Application Process for Current College and Graduate Students:  

Applicant must submit the following items: 

1.    Two (2) letters of recommendation from a choice of college instructors, advisors, counselors, employers, or an individual with significant knowledge of the applicant’s experience and involvement. 

2.    An official and recent college transcript (no earlier than May 2025) with a cumulative grade point average. 

3.    Personal Essay. 

• The essay must contain no grammatical errors.