In partnership with Give901, the Shainberg Family fuels students of the Choose901 Alumni Program through educational funding. The name Shainberg translates to “beautiful mountain,” acting as a powerful image for students who are climbing toward their goals, overcoming challenges, and shaping a better future for Memphis.
But the scholarship is only the beginning. The true inspiration lies in what alumni go on to do with their experiences, and how they stay connected to their city.
This year’s 2025 Shainberg Scholars, Lesly Yolani Urbina, Lakescia Hicks, Ruby B. Winters, and Sheltoria Love, share how the Choose901 Alumni program has not only supported their education, but also shaped their growth, connections, and careers.
Staying rooting in the community
For Lesly Yolani Urbina, the Alumni program has been more than just a network. It’s been a grounding force.
The Choose901 Alumni program has helped me stay connected to my roots. It reminds me that I’m part of a larger network of people who care deeply about Memphis and are working to improve it in their own ways. Being part of this community encourages me to keep giving back and reminds me that I’m not alone in my journey.
Her words remind us that no matter where life takes you, the Alumni community ensures Memphis is always part of your story.
Stepping Into New Opportunities
Lakescia Hicks joined the Alumni program more recently, but it’s already had a big impact on how she approaches opportunities and relationships.
I just now this past spring got involved with Choose901 and I would say it was the best choice that I’ve made. The experiences I have had with Choose901 have given me an eye opener to be more social and open and willing to try and do new things because they could lead to so many opportunities and experiences.
Her journey is a reminder that growth often comes when you take that first step outside your comfort zone.
Exploring Memphis and Building Connections
For Ruby B. Winters, the Alumni program has been a gateway to discovering new sides of the city while also expanding her professional circle.
The Choose901 Alumni program has been great in providing wonderful opportunities for exposure to different places around the city that I was new to. I have also had some great networking opportunities as a result of the program.
Ruby’s story highlights how the program doesn’t just connect alumni to each other, but also connects them to Memphis itself.
Finding Purpose Through Impact
Sheltoria Love credits her Alumni experience with helping her discover her true calling in philanthropy.
The Choose901 Alumni program has been amazing in supporting my journey. I honestly credit the team with introducing me to the world of nonprofits and social impact by connecting me to my very first internship at ALSAC the summer before my sophomore year of undergrad. At the time, I wasn’t sure why I was there, but looking back, that experience was pivotal because it helped solidify my passion for philanthropy and pushed me further down this path.
Her story is proof of how a single opportunity can spark a lifelong passion for making a difference.
The Bigger Picture
As these four alumni show, being part of the Choose901 Alumni community means staying rooted, seizing new opportunities, and finding fresh ways to engage with Memphis.
Their stories reflect what makes Give901, The Shainberg Family, and Choose901 Alumni’s work so powerful. When we invest in students, we invest in the future of our city.
