The Jonelle Cameron Grant

In celebration of our longtime supporter Jonelle Cameron and her upcoming 20th anniversary as a member of Howard University’s Class of 2007, we are proud to launch The Jonelle Cameron Grant—a named grant recognizing her continued commitment to supporting young mothers enrolled full time at Howard University while raising infants and toddlers.

For years, Jonelle has quietly helped us help undergraduate moms.

Her commitment is personal. 

She remembers what it meant for someone to show up for her when she needed support, and she has made it a point to extend that same support to young women coming behind her.

Her motto says it best:

“There’s no need to be blessed if you don’t bless others.”

Through the years, the recipients our community has supported have gone on to graduate, secure employment in their respective fields, and pursue advanced degrees. Some are continuing their education in graduate programs, including public health, while another is currently pursuing her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS).

None of this work happens in isolation.

Howard alumnae who were once undergraduate mothers themselves have played an important role in the success of this effort. They understand firsthand what it means to balance motherhood, academics, finances, and everything that comes with trying to earn a degree while raising a child.

As Jonelle approaches her 20th anniversary as a Howard alumna in 2027, we could think of no better way to celebrate her continued service than to build something that helps another Howard mom finish what she started.

And while this grant carries Jonelle Cameron’s name, it is meant to be supported by our entire Herd.

We hope Howard alumnae—and especially those who understand the journey of being a Howard mom—will join us in investing in the next young mother working toward earning her degree.