The NABAS Scholar's Retreat
8/3/2007
The National Association of Black Automotive Suppliers (NABAS) Scholarship Fund Board hosted its 1st Annual Scholar’s Retreat at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History Friday, July 27, 2007. Scholars attended from prior years as well as those who received awards at the scholarship awards dinner in May. The following percentages represent those attending from 2004 through 2007: 13% of 2004, 16% of 2006 and 63% of 2007. The purpose of the retreat was to give scholars the necessary tools needed for a successful transition from high school to a 4-year university, introduce scholars from prior years to the scholars of the current year and encourage networking for those who would be attending the same schools.
Rhonda Glover, NABAS Business Manager and Secretary to the Scholarship Fund Board and Linda Ratliff, Manager – Ministry, Community Support and Customer Service, Detroit Chassis and NABAS Scholarship Fund Board Public Relations Committee Chair greeted students as they arrived. Ms. Glover also reviewed NABAS expectations for scholars. Michael J. Guthrie, President & CEO, Detroit Chassis and NABAS Scholarship Fund Board President delivered a sobering message on achieving high performance and shared personal experiences.
Cassie N. Stafford, Account Officer, Comerica Bank and NABAS Scholarship Fund Board member discussed the importance of general banking and academic planning with the students. Ms. Stafford captured the interest of all of those in attendance because she too was a NABAS scholar who attended the University of Michigan. Ms. Stafford returned to Detroit and joined the NABAS Scholarship Fund Board in anticipation of giving back to the organization that assisted in her educational development, and the attainment of her career goals. Jeanette Abraham, President and CEO, Detroit Heading and JMA Logistics, and NABAS Scholarship Fund Board Vice-President addressed students and encouraged them to take all of the information presented to heart for future use.
The formalized program was followed by questions and answers and a guided tour of the museum. Ms. Brown, (parent) stated that the information presented to students was on time and that it involved subject matters that she had been discussing with her daughter, Courtney Brown, 2007 NABAS Scholar in preparation for her first year in college. “It was refreshing to participate in this retreat and I could tell that my daughter was capturing and comparing notes with discussions we previously had.” Courtney plans to study corporate law at Eastern University.
“Ms. Glover, I always enjoy NABAS events; they are so uplifting! Thank you so much for inviting me! Honestly, I wish that this had happened last year…I can’t wait to use the words of wisdom provided by Mr. Guthrie and Ms. Stafford.” Stated, Joy Nwabueze, 2006 NABAS scholar majoring in Accounting at Grand Valley State University.
“Even though I am in my 3rd year in college I found the NABAS Scholar’s Retreat extremely informative…I could easily identify with what was presented.” Morgan Wigley, 2004 NABAS scholar and Michigan State University Communications major.
The NABAS Scholarship Fund is IRS 501(c) 3 certified and promotes college level educational opportunities for youth in southeastern Michigan.
Contact: Linda Ratliff, 313-571-2100 x 506, lratliff@detroitchassis.com