The EZRA Project Chicago was developed in 2011 to recognize individuals for their commitment to the black church and the black community. Dr. Rosa Sailes, the founder of the EZRA Project Chicago, is an educator, author and ordained minister.
ROSE MEMORIAL
AWARD
The Rose Memorial Award recognizes African Americans in the Chicago Area who have passed away, leaving a legacy of love, wisdom and resilience. If you have a loved one you wish to be remembered, let The EZRA Project Chicago help you celebrate their memory.
SANKOFA MEMORIAL
SCHOLAR AWARD
The Sankofa Memorial honors the legacies of loved ones who served as mentors and role models. The Sailes Legacy Scholars Program builds on these community histories to inspire the next generation of African American scholars toward academic excellence and service.
Student award applications for High School students and Seminary students start spring 2027.
The Sailes Legacy Awards
Michael and Rosa Sailes Legacy Scholar Awards recognize youth and adults who are actively pursuing leadership roles in their congregations and seeking educational avenues to hone their leadership skills.
The Michael Sailes Legacy Awards are given to recent high school graduates who are entering college or accredited trade schools.
The Rosa Sailes Legacy Awards are presented to adults who are enrolled in accredited seminaries and Bible colleges.
The Michael and Rosa Sailes Legacy Scholar Award applications will be available in spring 2027.
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Attention Black Male High School Seniors
Seeking Black Male High School Students interested in becoming Doctors or Dentists
A special program between Tennessee State University (TSU) and MeharryMedical College allows students to complete a 7-year pathway to earn an MD or DDS. Students attend TSU for 3 years, then continue to Meharry to continue their degree.
This is where our network can make a difference. Please share broadly with any qualified high school seniors in your circles.
Since 2015, The EZRA Project Chicago has presented $47,000 in Sailes Legacy Scholar’s Awards and Sankofa Memorial Awards to graduating high school seniors pursuing college or vocational education through accredited institutions, and adults who attend accredited theological and biblical institutions.
Each year, The EZRA Project Chicago Torchbearer awards individuals who have served the Church community in specific areas of ministry for over 35 years. Several awards are named for individuals who have left a legacy of exemplary faith.
Project Grace 100 identifies individuals who are at least 100 years old. The EZRA Project Chicago personally celebrates each of these individuals with special gifts and prayer. If you know a living person in the Chicago area who has reached 100 years of age, please contact The EZRA Project Chicago.