The word “Sankofa” is taken from an African symbol which means “to go back and fetch” your history in order to move forward. The Sankofa Memorial allows community members to honor the legacies of deceased loved ones who served as mentors and role models in their lives. The Sailes Legacy Scholars Program was established to provide an opportunity for those community histories to propel the next generation of scholars to academic excellence and service in the African American community.

Rooted in the Akan concept of “Sankofa,” which means “go back and fetch it,” the Sankofa Memorial stands as a powerful reminder to honor the past while forging one’s future. This memorial allows families to contribute to the Scholar Awards in the name of individuals whose resilience and achievements have shaped their lives. The Sankofa Memorial inspires both remembrance and progress, underscoring the importance of learning from our ancestors as we chart a path toward a more just and compassionate future.