The Terra Brantley Foundation is pleased to announce Desmonae Thomas as the 2022 recipient of The Smart Girls Scholarship.
This $15,000 scholarship is awarded to female students in good academic standing, who participate in, or are graduates of the Boys and Girls Clubs Smart Girls Program.
Desmonae Thomas is a freshman at the University of Indianapolis where she is majoring in Criminal Justice. The Smart Girls Scholarship will help her continue with her education and ultimately reach her goal of becoming a homicide detective.
“I want to help others by bringing justice to those who deserve it,” said Thomas. “I am grateful for all of the tools I’ve been blessed with that will help me reach that goal.”
A graduate of South Side High School in Fort Wayne, Thomas participated in softball and attended the Boys and Girls Clubs for 10 years. In 2018, she was honored as the Smart Girl of the year.
“It had a huge impact on my life,” said Thomas. “One of the most important things I learned is accountability. If it wasn’t for the Boys and Girls Club, I don’t think I would have made it to college or even thought about going to study to get my Bachelor’s degree.”
“Desmonae is top-notch,” said Boys and Girls Clubs President Joe Jordan. “I am so pleased she has this opportunity to further her education.”
“I am thrilled that we are able to award our third $15,000 scholarship and help Desmonae,” said Foundation Founder/President Terra Brantley. “She will help pave the way and inspire others.”
Thomas was presented her scholarship check during the Boys and Girls Clubs Great Futures Gala Tuesday, October 11, 2022 at the Grand Wayne Center in Fort Wayne.
Desmonae Thomas has been named the Smart Girls scholarship winner for 2022
Boys and Girls Club of Fort Wayne Background
The Boys and Girls Club of Fort Wayne (BGCFW) is a non-profit organization that provides structured afterschool programs that emphasize academic success, good character, citizenship and healthy lifestyles. Each year, nearly 3000 school aged boys and girls attend life changing programs at one of five club locations in Fort Wayne.
BGCFW puts children and teens first by focusing on their mission “to inspire all young people, especially those who need us most, to reach full potential as productive, caring and responsible citizens.”
Interview & Media Contacts
Joe Jordan, President & CEO, Boys and Girls Clubs of Fort Wayne | 260-744-0998 extension 113 | jjordan@bgcfw.org
Terra Brantley, Founder/President of the Terra Brantley Foundation | 260-481-1551 | tbrantley@fwurbanleague.org