Shelley's Story
Shelley Renee Barnes has been described as “sunshine in human form” by those who knew her well. Shelley attended Elizabeth Seton High School from 1996 to 2000, during which she truly exemplified the core values of a Seton graduate. A gifted and creative spirit, Shelley excelled as a student, friend, athlete and artist. After graduating, she lived as a confident, courageous and generous woman who inspired everyone around her.
Shelley was passionate about women's health advocacy and was a voice and advocate for young black breast cancer survivors. She served as Vice President of Sisters Network DC, the leading voice and the only National African American breast cancer survivor-run organization in the U.S. While Shelley refused to be defined by her illness, she understood the importance of sharing her story with others.. She was an invited guest on The Dr. Oz Show and Roland Martin’s NewsOne, encouraging young Black women to be proactive about cancer screenings and mammograms.
In 2016, Shelley was featured in a BET documentary short detailing her advocacy work for the minority and young adult cancer community, which received the Telly Bronze Award. In 2019, the American Women for International Understanding awarded Shelley the International Relations Young Women Global Impact Award for her outstanding global advocacy in healthcare for women and girls. Shelley also served as a mentor with Year Up Baltimore and the Capital City Public Charter School Mentoring Program. Most importantly, Shelley embodied love, hope and the triumph of a beautiful human spirit.
This scholarship, established by her family and friends, is in her loving memory. Shelley loved Elizabeth Seton High School and she will continue to inspire the students who come to know her through this scholarship.
We believe in empowering young minority women to embrace who they are, define their future, and become agents of change in the world.
Our Mission
Our mission is to provide financial assistance to minority women in high school who are in need of financial support to complete their high scholl education at Elizabeth Seton and pursue higher education at a college or university. We believe that education is the key to breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a brighter future for our community.
Our Vision
Our vision is to create a world where all students have equal opportunities to achieve their educational goals, regardless of their background and financial barriers.