BWLC Foundation
BWLC Foundation History
The Black Women’s Leadership Council Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established to help make “Dreams Come True” one student at a time by awarding scholarships to young Black females. This scholarship provides financial support as the scholars pursue their academic passion in higher education and forge a path in the global community.
The Foundation was created by the Black Women’s Leadership Council (BWLC) under the leadership of Sylvia Chambers and a dedicated group of female professionals from Xerox Corporation. Ms. Chambers was one of the first Black women that served as a Xerox Corporation Vice President.
Since its inception in 2000, the Foundation has awarded over $166,000.00 to 179 deserving young women. Many of these scholars have pursued advanced degrees in various fields, including nursing, engineering, medicine, education, the performing arts, communications, and marketing.

Donna M. Jones
BWLC Foundation President
BWLC Foundation President’s Message
As I reflect on the past two years, I am saddened by much and then I remember Amanda Gorman’s Inaugural Poem “The Hill We Climb.” To paraphrase, we are “A nation that isn’t broken, but simply unfinished.” In order to put “our future first, we must put our differences aside.” “That even as we grieved, we grew, That even as we hurt, we hoped. That even as we tired, we tried.” How we hope to “leave behind a country better than the one we were left.” And ultimately, that “there is always light, If only we’re brave enough to see it, If only we’re brave enough to be it.”
As I visualize the future, I am even more determined to persist in the work of the BWLC Foundation. We must continue to support the Black women who will be the leaders of tomorrow as they seek to further their education today. One thing is evident, we cannot do it without you. United, we are more than the sum of our parts. Shine On!
When the POWER of LOVE overcomes the LOVE of POWER – then there will be PEACE!
–William Gladstone
United . . . we are more than the sum of our parts.
~ Donna M. Jones
Foundation Board

Donna M. Jones
President

Patricia Williams
Vice President

Jeannie Slaughter
Immediate Past President/Treasurer

BJ Davis
Member

Valencia Kenner
Member

Cherrelle Lawrence
Member
BWLC Foundation Sponsors
How You Can Help
There are several ways to support this Scholarship Foundation:
- You may make a donation to BWLC Foundation Inc. for any amount you choose to give. You can make your donation either with a Credit Card or send a check or money order payable to BWLC Foundation
c/o BWLC Scholarship Committee
PO Box 20195
Rochester, NY 14602 - Send emails or comments by clicking on the contact us button below
- You may plan a fundraising campaign in your city or community to support the foundation.
- Share the Friends and Family Donation Letter with your network to generate additional financial support.