Schools
Cecil College student recipient of the Donald J. Waldon Memorial Scholarship
Dean strives to set a positive example and be a role model for his younger brother and sister.
NORTH EAST, Md: Cecil College is proud to announce that freshman Jah Dean has been selected as the recipient of the Donald J. Waldon Memorial Scholarship and was honored during the 49th annual scholarship banquet hosted by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. at the Water’s Edge Event Center.
Dean, a native of Smyrna, Delaware, is pursuing an associate degree in Sports Management at Cecil College. Before enrolling at Cecil College, he attended Early College High School in Dover, DE. During the 2025–2026 academic year, Dean was also a member of the Cecil College men’s basketball team.
The Donald J. Waldon Memorial Scholarship is sponsored annually by Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. and provides up to two Cecil College students with full tuition support, including fees and books. For decades, the partnership between Cecil College and the local fraternity chapter has created valuable opportunities for students committed to academic success and community engagement.
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As the oldest sibling in his family, Dean understands the responsibility of leadership and strives to set a positive example for his younger brother and sister. “My little brother and sister look up to me, and that motivates me every day,” Dean said. “I want my brother to see strength, discipline, and integrity in me. I want my sister to know what it looks like to be respected and valued.”
While basketball plays an important role in his life, Dean believes education is the key to long-term success regardless of where life leads him. That outlook was instilled by his grandmother, who emphasized the value of education and perseverance. Dean, who is also very spiritual and active within his church community, said receiving the scholarship is both an honor and a source of motivation.
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“This scholarship means more to me than financial support—it represents belief,” Dean said. “It tells me that someone sees my potential and is willing to invest in my future.”
Eligible applicants must attend Cecil College full time, maintain at least a 2.5 grade point average, and demonstrate dedication to serving their communities through volunteer work and extracurricular involvement. Students interested in learning more about the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Scholarship can contact Cheryl Davis-Robinson, Director of Student Life at Cecil College, at cadavis@cecil.edu.
