Photo via: Clark Atlanta University
Recently, former NBA star Grant Hill, was inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. As a way of honoring his work in the NBA and beyond, the Atlanta Hawks donated 33 scholarships to students at Atlanta University Center (AUC) schools including Clark Atlanta, Spelman College and Morehouse College.
The 33 scholarships represent the No. 33 that Hill, who is a seven-time NBA All-Star, wore on the back of his jersey throughout his career, reports ESPN’s The Undefeated. This means that each school received 11 financial aid packages for individual students.
The @ATLHawks surprised Co-Owner/Vice Chair Grant Hill with a scholarship fund that will benefit 33 students at #CAU, Spelman, and Morehouse in honor of his induction into the Naismith Hall of Fame. Thank you Grant Hill and the Atlanta Hawks! #HBCU #WeAreCAU #CAUNation30 pic.twitter.com/yErgD3YQdO
— Clark Atlanta Univ. (@CAU) September 4, 2018
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“Grant Hill’s passion for the arts and education perfectly aligns with Spelman’s mission to educate the whole student through a dynamic liberal experience,” said Spelman president Mary Schmidt Campbell. “We appreciate the Atlanta Hawks recognizing his athletic excellence and his commitment to HBCUs by supporting students at Spelman, Morehouse and Clark Atlanta.”
Hill, who became part owner of the Hawks in 2015, was surprised with the scholarship news during a recent ceremony held on Spelman’s campus. He said that although he was excited about his induction into the Hall of Fame, he and the Hawks ability to provide financial support to HBCU students is one of his greatest gifts.
“It is an honor and privilege to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, perhaps the greatest accomplishment of my life,” he said. “Yet, learning that the Atlanta Hawks have created scholarships in my name for 33 students matriculating at the AUC member institutions is the most humbling gift and the highest distinction that I can receive.”