The Caucus of Emory Black Alumni (CEBA) is honored to administer the prestigious Dr. Herman L. Reese Community Service Award, established in 1985 by Rosetta Gooden, former Senior Associate Dean of Admissions at Emory. This award pays tribute to Dr. Reese, a dedicated African American professional who served as Emory’s Director of Financial Aid for nearly 15 years. Throughout his tenure, Dr. Reese was committed to supporting students by expanding access to financial aid, creating vocational opportunities, and providing both academic and personal mentorship. Even in retirement, he continues to serve as an education consultant and mentor.
CEBA is proud to open the Herman L. Reese Community Service Award application for the 2025–2026 academic year. Four students who have made a significant impact on the Black community at Emory, demonstrated a strong commitment to service at Emory and in the greater Atlanta area, and exemplified character and academic excellence will each receive a $1,000 award. All current graduate and undergraduate Emory students are welcome to apply.
Recipients will also be expected to continue their community engagement throughout their time as students.
Timeline:
- Application Deadline: January 20th, 2026
- Selections Announced: March 1st, 2026
The CEBA Board will oversee the selection process.
Each applicant should complete the application below and submit the following:
- An essay (<750 words) focusing on their significant contributions to the Black community at Emory and the greater Atlanta community at large in one or more of the following categories:
- Tutorials/Academic Assistance
- Artistic Contributions
- Social/Psychological Support
- Political Leadership/Volunteerism
- General Community Service
- One letter of recommendation from a professor or a community leader
- An unofficial transcript
- Resume
Remember that while academic achievement is important, this is a community service award, and GPA is not a primary consideration.
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