A reception was held last week in Homewood's Mason
Hall for the inaugural group of graduating
Baltimore Scholars and their families.
President
Ronald J. Daniels stopped by to chat with and
congratulate the scholars. William
Conley, dean of enrollment and academic services, spoke,
along with Nicholas P. Jones, dean of the
Whiting School of Engineering, and Matthew A. Crenson,
professor emeritus of political science and
faculty director of the program. Associate Director of
Admissions Jameel Freeman, who coordinates
the program, also attended.
Since 2005, Johns Hopkins has recognized the critical
importance of public education in
Baltimore through the Baltimore Scholars program, which
covers the cost of tuition for students from
Baltimore City Public Schools who are admitted to the
university. To date, more than 70 Baltimore
Scholars have enrolled, with another 15 expected as
freshmen this fall. Fifteen Baltimore Scholars
will graduate this week. The program represents a Johns
Hopkins investment in the Baltimore
community of more than $2.6 million a year.
"To the parents, I know what your journey was like,"
Conley told the small gathering at the
reception. "Parents, this day is for you, too."
Jessica Turral, a graduating scholar and recipient of
the Alexander K. Barton Cup — given each
year to an outstanding senior in the Homewood schools-
called her experience a blessing. "I'm blessed
that Johns Hopkins trusted me to represent myself, my
parents, my city and my community," she said.
"I just thank Hopkins for trusting us."
Crenson, himself a product of Baltimore public schools
and Johns Hopkins, presented the
scholars in attendance with certificates.
"It didn't take long for me to sign [the
certificates]," Crenson said, "but doing so was one of the
most gratifying experiences I've had in my 37 years on the
faculty."
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