Former television executive producer, Tenisha Taylor Bell, is hosting the Ezekiel Taylor Scholarship Foundation (ETSF) Gala and Fundraiser on Saturday, July 28 at 7 p.m. at the Hilton Hotel Chicago Oak Lawn.
ETSF provides scholarships, mentorship and life skills workshops to African-American male students impacted by Chicago’s gun violence. The foundation, named after Bell’s father who was killed on the Southside, is awarding 18 scholarships this year.
“My father was murdered just blocks from where First Lady Michelle Obama grew up,” says Bell. “His life was tragically snatched by teenagers who lost their way. The community must pull together to offer young people hope and opportunity if we want to see change happen.”
The foundation, in its second year, has garnered local and national media attention. Sponsors and partners include Chicago’s ISF Bank, Chicago State University, Chicago Public Schools, NBC 5, Miss Jessie’s, The Chicago Sky WNBA and many more. National celebrities are also recognizing the work of the foundation.
“Congratulations to all of the ETSF winners! They have proved to the community that they are shining stars,” says rapper, actor Chris ‘Ludacris’ Bridges. “Hard work, commitment, and education pays off. I am proud of the winners, I’m invested in their success,” adds the Illinois native.
The scholars will be presented to the community at the ETSF Gala on Saturday, July 28, 2018. Hosted by WMAQ-TV anchor Art Norman, presenters for the evening include local journalists and media personalities such as Kathy Chaney, formerly of Ebony Magazine; Dometi Pongo, WGN Radio and Chicago Native, Darius Johnson of WSAV-TV, Savannah, GA.
To purchase tickets to the gala or to learn more visit: www.EZTaylor.org.