TaeAwards.org
The Academic Excellence Awards Foundation, Inc.
Inspired by the wisdom of Anna F. Scott
Donate to TaeAwards- Tax Deductable
About Us
Since being established in 2018, The Academic Excellence Awards Foundation, has been known for its commitment to rewarding the best and brightest students at Historically Black Colleges & Universities. It’s this standard of excellence that has provided the impetus for us to grow into the Foundation we are today.
Our Board of Governors are committed to finding future leaders of tomorrow.
Threw educational excellence and a exceptional commitment to scholarship,
we will directly impact our communities, with better prepared students.
Mayor Muriel Bowser of Washington DC
Promotes the University of the District of Columbia
the cities only pubic land-grant institution.
Tae Awards Foundation Partners with HBCU
Foundations
Future Leaders in Education & Philanthropy
TaeAwards
was held
Thursday, April 17, 2025 @
The University of The District of Columbia
Student Center /Heritage Hall
6:30pm-8:30pm
Meet UDC President Maurice Edington, Ph.D. & Trustee Board
Light Refreshments Provided!
With Special Guest
A. Scott Bolden Esq.
Nationally Acclaimed, Political analyst, Civil rights activist and High profile case attorney.
2025 Tae Lifetime Achievement Award
Our Scholars Exceed Your Expectations
Congratulations
2025
Unversity of the District of Columbia
TAE AWARDS RECIPIENTS
Claudia Bahamon Lopez-School of Engineering & Applied Sciences
Eyob Bulti- Community College
Oskar Karos- College of CAUSES
David Lapidus- School of Engineering & Applied Sciences
Mariah McPherson- College of Agriculture, Urban Sustainability & ES
Torian Powell- School of Business & Pubic Administration
Louka Queguiner- School og Business Administration
Ramos Rodrigo - Community College
Rahel Schaeffer- College of Arts and Sciences
Jeffrey White - College of Arts and Sciences
​2025 Heritage Award - Dr. Prince NoRa
​2025 Lifetime Achievement Award - A. Scott Bolden, Esq.
FRIENDS AND SUPPORTERS OF THE TAE AWARDS
Jennifer Burton
Celebrity Chef Carla Hall
and Nyla Scott @ TAE Awards
Dr. Richard Miles -MFL (Developmental Football-CEO) and Kelsey Nicole Nelson- Sports Writer & Broadcaster @ TAE Awards
Civil Rights Attorney
Benjamin Crump & TAE AWARDS CEO
Petworth Printing
301 Kennedy St.
NW Washington, DC 20011
202-291-6566
Barrington D. Scott -TAE AWARDS - CEO,
Dr. Trelaunda Beckett- Jones, EdD.
"2024 Heritage Award Winner w
Keishia Thorpe winner of UNESCO,s
$1 Million Global Teacher Prize in 2021 and
UDC President Dr. Maurice Edington, Ed.D.
@ TAE Awards 2023 Celebration
Major Supporter -Christoper Bell, Esq.
UDC Former - Board Chairman
UDC TOP PROFESSORS
Support the
TAE AWARDS
A mind Is a terrible thing to waste.
Life is like Chess,
IT'S ABOUT MAKING THE RIGHT MOVES!
FIND YOUR POSSIBLE
@ UDC
TaeAwards.org
Investing in Future Leaders: Financial Scholarships for Graduating High School Seniors with a 3.7 or higher.
We believe in the power of education and the potential of every student to become a future leader. That's why we are dedicated to providing financial scholarships to graduating high school seniors who have demonstrated exceptional academic excellence. Our scholarships are specifically focused on supporting persons attending HBCU institutions, pursuing undergraduate degrees in various fields and trades.
We are proud to support them in their endeavors by providing financial scholarships that will help alleviate the burden of college expenses. If you are a graduating high school senior with a GPA of 3.5 or better and are passionate about pursuing an undergraduate degree at an HBCU institution, we encourage you to apply for our scholarships. We believe that everyone deserves an equal opportunity to succeed, and we are committed to supporting persons of with their educational pursuits. Here are a few tips for applying for scholarships: 1. Start early: Don't wait until the last minute to begin your scholarship search. Many scholarships have early deadlines, so it's important to start researching and applying as soon as possible. 2. Tailor your application: Each scholarship has its own set of requirements and criteria. Take the time to carefully read through the application and tailor your responses to highlight your strengths and achievements. 3. Write a compelling essay: Many scholarships require an essay as part of the application process. Use this opportunity to showcase your passion, goals, and how receiving the scholarship will help you achieve them. 4. Gather strong letters of recommendation: Reach out to teachers, mentors, or community leaders who can speak to your character and academic abilities. A strong letter of recommendation can greatly enhance your scholarship application. 5. Stay organized: Keep track of all the scholarships you are applying for, their deadlines, and any additional documents required. Create a checklist to ensure you don't miss any important details. At TaeAwards.org, we are committed to investing in the future leaders of our communities. We believe that education is the key to unlocking opportunities and creating positive change. If you are a graduating high school senior with exceptional academic records and a desire to make a difference, we encourage you to apply for our financial scholarships. Together, we can empower the next generation of world leaders and community activists.
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Meet The Team
Barrington D. Scott, I
CEO & Founder
affectionately known as “Bo” earned his B.S. degree in Leisure Studies with a minor in Physical Education from the University of the District of Columbia (UDC) in 1982. Barrington has over 42 years in Health Care and currently is a licensed Recreational Therapist and Certified Dementia Practitioner and has certification in conflict resolution training.
While a student at UDC, Barrington’s activism with the student government led to his organizing D.C.-area universities to participate in the 1982 March on Washington, which was successful in advocating for legislation establishing a federal holiday honoring Dr. Martin Luther King.
Mr. Scott’s community service activities have included: several years as an elected Advisory Neighborhood Commissioner and served as the Chair of ANC4B
Barrington Scott has experience on boards, having served in that capacity for numerous organizations throughout the Washington D.C including the Historic Kappa House Restoration Foundation ,The DC Kappa Scholarship Endowment Fund, The Calvin Coolidge High School Scholarship Fund, The University of the District of Columbia Foundation, Inc., and Pigskins Club of Washington DC.
Education has always been a central focus of Mr. Scott’s public service. In 1987, he became a Co-Founder of the Calvin Coolidge Alumni Association, the first such public high school alumni association incorporated in the District of Columbia. This effort has resulted in over 400 students going to college with scholarship assistance.
As a UDC Alumni Trustee, Scott (is serving his second elected 5-year term). It was his motivating force that gain the support of university officials to name the first building and statue on campus after Dr. EB Henderson the “Grandfather of Black Basketball.” Trustee Scott served as the Chairman of this historical project which captured National and International attention. In addition, in 2007 Mr. Scott received an award from the “National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences” for his support of Education, Advocacy and Human Service initiatives.
Mr. Scott membership list include Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi, Fraternity Inc.,
Prince Hall Lodge #14, PHA, MWGLDC, Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order Nobles of the Mystic Shrine of North and South America and Jurisdictions, Inc. & the United Supreme Council-Grand Inspector General at the 33rd and last degree. Silver Life Member” of the NAACP, District of Columbia Branch.
Over the years he has received countless awards and city acknowledgements, including the UDC, PATH MAKERS LEADERSHIP AWARD” for his commitment to philanthropy and education. . In (2023) the UDC National Alumni Society –presented “Trustee Scott” with the covenant “Humanitarian of the Year Award” for his Philanthropic efforts. Trustee Scott has one son and 5 grandchildren which he adores.
In 2018, The Academic Excellence Awards was established by UDC Trustee Barrington D. Scott to award the best and brightest graduating senior in each department yearly at the University of the District of Columbia. What started off as a Paver Award is now the covenant TaeAward “Achievement Medallion” and Certificate. In 2024 the first "Tae Heritage Award" will be given to a Person, Organization or Foundation that supports philanthropy or shows a commitment to educational upward mobility and excellence.
Tae Awards Foundation
CEO Cheif Executive Officer
Tae Awards Foundation
Treasure
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Jenneifer Burton, MS
Treasure
is the Senior Energy Manager at Lowe’s, leading initiatives in energy management, efficiency, and renewable energy. She played a pivotal role in shaping the Clinton – Gore administration’s inaugural climate policy, championing initiatives to safeguard the environment and public health. Jennifer also supported Vice President Gore’s presidential campaign, emphasizing the importance of addressing climate change throughout the elections.
Jennifer’s research on climate change impacts in low-income neighborhoods reflects her commitment to community well-being. Active in climate advocacy, Jennifer has been engaged in lobbying efforts with Citizens’ Climate Lobby for the past 6 years. She has also testified before the EPA on hazardous air pollutants’ impact on communities of color.
In previous roles, Jennifer cultivated enduring professional and personal connections with members of Congress, facilitating smoother engagement on climate-related issues. Additionally, she has coordinated travel for the Clinton White House and the U.S. Department of State, fostering global experiences. At Lockheed Martin, she played a key role in securing a $3.5 billion contract with the Department of State.
A native of Mound Bayou, Mississippi, Jennifer holds two degrees from The University of the District of Columbia and a Yale School of Management certificate. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Urban Leadership to support clean energy initiatives and assist in the enhancement of the grid, while positively impacting the communities she serves.
Jennifer Burton (Senior Energy Manager, Lowe’s): “My vision is to leverage my established connections with Congress to forge meaningful corporate relationships aligned with Citizens’ Climate Lobby’s mission.”
Keith Irby, BS
Secretary
Tae Awards Foundation
Secretary
Keith Eric Irby is a proud participant in the efforts of TAE Awards to honor our best and brightest academicians at historically black colleges and universities (H.B.C.U.) Graduating in 2015 with a B.S. in Psychology, he is one-of- seven, in his immediate family to graduate from the University of the District of Columbia (UDC), the second oldest H.B.C.U. Keith, a native Washingtonian, currently works with high school students in an alternative school that serves those who are learning disabled, behaviorally challenged, over aged and under credited in a non-traditional classroom setting using art as a tool in behavior management, facilitating academic achievement and post-secondary success preparation.
A Behavioral Specialist at Kingsman Academy Public Charter School in N.E. Washington, D.C., which accepts students city-wide, Keith leads a small class of students in the Integrated Art Program (IAP)where he employs preventative behavioral strategies and academic instruction which he acquired through many opportunities observing in the classrooms of his parents and countless family discussions during holiday dinners where four siblings held teaching positions. Prior to working at Kingsman, Keith spent a year working in youth detention in Washington and Maryland employing restorative practices as a means of righting wrongs and healing, as well as drama and theatrical strategies to aid youth in behavior modification. Keith developed these skills and knowledge from a nearly twelve-year stint as a performer on stage, tv and film, industrials, local and national commercials, and voice and print productions.
Keith has been a member of the Eastern Board of Officials, Inc. for more than thirty years beginning in 1992 officiating football in pee wee, junior high, middle school, high school, college, amateur and semi pro adult leagues in D.C. and the surrounding area. His favorite position on the gridiron was the umpire, where he was able to have consistent, close influence on the temperature of the contest using preventative strategies to mitigate tense or combative situations in emotionally charged full contact athletic contests. Imbued with a love of history by his father, and being told about the rich history of EBO by senior membership, Keith began a more than twenty-year research journey beginning in 2001, into the early history of EBO and its founder Edwin Bancroft Henderson.
This led to his receiving a life-time appointment as Historian of the Eastern Board of Officials by President Roosevelt McIlwain. As his research continued, Keith was asked to serve as a committee member of the Dr. Edwin Bancroft Henderson Memorial Project honoring E.B. the “Grandfather of Black Basketball”. It was successful in naming the first building, erecting the first statue and establishing an endowed scholarship all in Dr. Henderson’s honor on the campus of the University of the District of Columbia.
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Trelaunda Beckett-Jones, Ph.D.
Board Chairperson
is a respected visionary, transformational leader, clinician, educator, administrator, life-strategist and speaker. At the University of the District of Columbia, she recently served as Interim Chief Student Development and Success Officer and returned to her role of Associate Vice President and Dean of Students for the Division of Student Development & Success. Dr. Beckett-Jones served as Special Assistant to the Chief Student Development & Success Officer, Student Activity Specialist, Counselor/Disability Counselor, and Adjunct Faculty. She also participated on over fifty university committees, contributed to philanthropy efforts (external through the Masonic Classic for the Masonic Endowment—Platinum Masonic Sponsor) and increased external relations & partnerships and community building during her eighteen-year tenure.
A native Washingtonian and proud product of the District of Columbia Public School System, Dr. Beckett-Jones received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology from Fisk University, a Master of Arts Degree in Counseling Psychology and Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Bowie State University.
With over twenty-five years of experience in a plethora of expertise, Dr. Beckett-Jones is a member of several non-profit, civic, fraternal & professional organizations and has received numerous awards from community organizations. Recently named a 2024 HBCU Executive Leadership Institute Fellow at Clark Atlanta University and selected as an “Honoree” for the 2024 edition of Marquis Who’s Who in America, Dr. Beckett-Jones also contributes her leadership talents to professional organizations such as Go Daddy and Fairy Godboss.
In 2022, Dr. Beckett-Jones became the Founder and CEO of TDBJ Enterprises, LLC, a coaching and consulting firm that provides empowerment solutions to individuals and teams for a better quality of life.
Her greatest achievement in life has been the birth of her twin sons, Jaden and Jordan. She is married to Leonard Jones, Jr, proud stepmom to Marcus and proud daughter of Dr. Mary H. Beckett.
Tae Awards Foundation
Board Chairperson
Tae Awards Foundation
Board of Governors
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Dr. Reverend Charles Hudson III, B.B.S., M.Div. Th.D . Board of Governors ( Vice Chairman & Senior Advisor)
Personal: Born October 6, 1956 in Rayville, Louisiana in the Parish of Richland.
He attended Macalester College in St. Paul Minnesota, where he majored in Political Science/Speech Communication. He graduated in 1978 with a B.A. in Liberal Arts
He is a Graduate of the Stephen H. Covey Institute and is a Certified Facilitator for The 7 Habits Leadership Seminars Inc.
He is a Graduate of The Dale Carnegie Institute and is the recipient of its Highest Award for Achievement and was elected President of his Class.
Rev Charles Hudson III is a Graduate of Kingdom University International Seminary and received his Masters in Divinity (M.Div.). He did graduate in June 2024 with a Doctorate in Theology (Th.D.)
Reverend Charles Hudson III was Licensed and Ordained into the Gospel Ministry in 1997 under the tutelage of his father, the late Pastor C.H. Hudson. He served as Associate Pastor for 10 years, overseeing the Youth Ministry, The Vacation Bible School, Christian Training and Development, and Community Outreach. After his father’s death in 2002, Reverend Hudson established the C.H. Hudson Outreach Ministry in honor of his father. Rev Hudson serves on the Board of Directors of The Heroes Corner Veteran Outreach Center, The A. Philip Randolph Institute, and Senior Neighbors oF Western Michigan. He is a Life Member of the NAACP of Greater Grand Rapids, and a Program Facilitator for the Grand Rapids African American Health Institute (GRAAHI)
He is the recipient of the Senior Neighbors "16 Over 60" Community Service Award
He has received a Resolution for Community Service from the Office of the Governor of Michigan sponsored by Senator Hillary Scholten (D) MI
He has received a "Special Senatorial Award" for Community Service from the Office of Senator Gary Peters (D) MI. and Senator Hillary Scholten (D) MI.
He was the recipient of H.C. Tolliver Religious Service Award at the 2024 41st GIANT Awards in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
He is a 48 year Life Member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. He is also a Life Member of the Northern Province and serves as Provincial Chairman of the Senior Kappa Affairs Committee.
Reverend Charles Hudson III and his wife Carolyn, a retired Early Childhood Care Specialist, currently reside in the City of Kentwood, MI. They have (3) Adult Children, (10) Grandchildren, and (4) Great Grandchildren
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Tyrone Tate, MBA.
Board of Governors - (Responsaible for Corporate Partnerships)
Tyrone is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of combined marketing and management experience across Corporate America, including IBM, and the Federal Government at DOT and the Commerce Department. He's also worked in public and private school systems and with sports teams and pro and amateur athletes. Recognized for his exceptional skills and extensive network, he mentors and coaches student-athletes to elite Power 5 Schools. Tyrone also hosts a popular radio and TV talk show. He holds a bachelor's degree from Alabama State University and an M.B.A. with Cum Laude honors from Southeastern University.
Tae Awards Foundation
Board of Governors
Tae Awards Foundation
Board of Governors
Nyla M. Scott, a Native Washingtonian, is a multifaced individual with a background in law and a passion for the arts. She most recently graduated from the American University with a BS Degree in Justice and Law. Currently she serves as a Manager at the Sandlot, a venue known for it’s vibrant cultural events and professional young Adults. Her professional interests lie at the intersection of legal expertise and creative industries, particularly in the arts, music, and intellectual property sectors. Don’t count Law school because it is most definitely in her future bucket list of things to accomplish. Nyla is active on social media and has completed multiple courses and certifications in media relations, social media, and stress management which enhances her communication and resilience skills. Nyla will be working directly with High School Scholarships with The Academic Excellence Awards Foundation , Inc. and is excited to work with her grandfather, CEO Barrington D. Scott, I- seeing this vision of the TaeAwards become to a reality.
​Nyla Scott, BS
Over TaeAwards
High School Scharships
Empowering Students
TAE AWARDS
Foundation, INC.
​Dedicated to recognizing academic excellence and fostering a culture of learning. We strive to inspire and support students in their educational journey. Our foundation aims to provide opportunities for growth and development, helping students reach their full potential. Through our programs and initiatives, we aim to celebrate achievements and encourage a passion for learning. Join us in our mission to empower the next generation of leaders.
Tae Awards Foundation
Board of Governors
FRANK JONES, III - Over Tae Awards Educational Grants
Is a 4th generation Washingtonian, who went to District of Columbia schools (DCPS), including Calvin Coolidge HS where he was an City-Wide All Star Football Player Selection (Running Backand Kick- Off Specialist) in 1975. Next, Frank matriculated to Knoxville College and the University of Nevada Las Vegas, where he earned certifications in Business Administration, Hotel Management, and US Army leadership College. Frank Jones III worked at Walter Reed AMC for 31 years starting as the night manager rising to Division Chief. Directed/Oversight of an operation of more than 100 full-time, part-time and on call employees to include more than 10 out-sourced catering vendors. (Sodexho, Famous Dave's, Normandy, Hogates, Delightful Appetites, Five Star Catering, Caterer First, Subway, Dunkin Donuts, Wally World's, Solar Restaurant, Hunan City and others). Recognized in 1990 by the Department of Army (DA) as one of the best…Activities and Societies: Recipient/Memberships/Board Member for Who's Who Strathmore Business, Who's Who Board of Public Affairs World-Wide, Lifetime Member/International Management Community Executive Association (IMCEA), 30 Year US Federal Govt. Service Pin (Retired-2011), Co-Founder of Calvin Coolidge Alumni Association Inc.(CCAA Inc./1987) Lifetime Member/1996 Honoree/Board Member, Board Member/Georgia Avenue Family Supportive Collaborative (GAFSC), Board Member/(Interim President) Safe Takoma Inc., and ANC Commissioner in Ward 4.
Tae Awards Foundation
Board of Governors
James T. -The Ambassador of Network Media Marketing, Publications & Relations.
James T.- has 30 years of experience as CEO & President of Time 2 Jamm Network - Based out of Fort Washington MD. Specializes in producing and distributing content across various platforms, including music, video, and digital media. The company operates a YouTube channel, indicating its engagement in video content creation and distribution.
As the Network Media Relation and Public Relation Director for Tae Awards Foundation, his role is to manage the image, reputation, and communication with the public, especially through media channels.
Building strong relationships with journalists, media outlets, and influencers. To pitch our mission and highlight the Foundations initiatives, values and successes. To Coordinate interviews and press conferences and media appearances. Develop and execute all business campaigns for TaeAwards. And most of all ensure consistency in branding across all platforms. And lastly tracking and reporting analytics to CEO and Governing Board members.
Tae Awards Foundation
Salutes
Mrs. Virginia Ali
Matriarch &
Co-Founder of the famous
Ben's Chilli Bowl
"A Friend of Education & UDC"
Vida Ali of The Vida Media Group
and Mrs. Virginia Ali & her
Ben's Chilli Bowl Foundation take a moment with
TaeAwards - CEO Barrington D. Scott, I
Tae Awards Foundation
Salutes Congressman Maxwell Frost
on his Honorary Doctorates from UDC
Tae Awards Foundation
Salutes Benjamin Crump, Esq.
on his Honorary Doctorates from UDC.
Red Grant
Comedian / Philanthopist supports the Tae Awards
for Excellence in Education
TAE AWARDS Foundation, Inc.
Invites
Keisha Thorpe
2021 Global Teacher of the Year
to it's Celebration.
2024 TAE AWARDS
Tae Awards Foundation
Salutes
Wil "The Butler" Haygood
on his Honorary Doctorates from UDC.
Tae Awards Foundation
Salutes
C. Brian Williams
on his Honorary Doctorates from UDC.
STEP AFRIKA!
It Only Takes A Minute To Change Your LIFE!
Dr. Willie Jolly
Tae Awards Foundation
Salutes
Dr. Willie Jolly
"Hall of Fame Speaker" #1 "
Rated XM Radio Host, Best Selling Author!
Native Washingtonian.
Tae Awards Foundation
Salutes
Celebrity Chef - Carla Hall
& Celebrity Make-up Artist/ Stylist
Derrick Rutledge
Tae Awards Foundation
Salutes
Several UDC Athelics Who Excelled in the Class Room
Tae Awards Foundation
Salutes
The 1st Class In 2018
Tae Awards Foundation, Inc.
Is Coming to an HBCU, Institutions
Near You Soon...
We are powered by Academic Excellence
Office: 202-315-7461
If You're Gonna Be One, Than Be One!
GOD WILL GIVE YOU THE DESIRES
OF YOUR HEART...Be Faithful
Board member -Mr. Tate w Messiah deWeaver
Board member -Mr. Tate w Messiah deWeaver
Ben Crump Esq. spends time with CEO- Scott
