Fourth Annual Yankees-Stonewall Scholarships

Yankee Stadium's famous facade. Photo by Jason Schott.

The Yankees, New York City Schools Chancellor David C. Banks, and The Stonewall Inn announced on Tuesday that applications are open for the fourth annual Yankees-Stonewall Scholarships.

The $10,000 college scholarships that celebrate the achievements of New York City public school graduating seniors who have demonstrated strong academic achievement and impactful support of the LGBTQ+ community.

Applications will close on April 15, and one student from each borough will be selected for the scholarships. All New York City public school seniors are eligible to apply at www.schools.nyc.gov.lgbtq. 

NYC Schools Chancellor David C. Banks said in a statement, "I'm thrilled to partner with the New York Yankees and so proud to continue the powerful work we've done with The Stonewall Inn in support of our amazing LGBTQ+ seniors. This inititiative uplifts our graduating LGBTQ+ seniors as future leaders, and I am deeply confident that the bright, inclusive future they shape for us will be a home run."

The Yankees-Stonewall Scholarships were created in 2018 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Stonewall Inn uprising and celebrate the achievements of New York City public school students, and the first class of recipients were named in the spring of 2019. 

Yankees Senior Vice President and General Manager Brian Cashman said in a statement, "In the first three years of the program, we have been able to provide resources to a truly inspiring group of graduates as they pursue their educational goals and dreams for the future. Our support of this program also reflects our deep respect for the LGBTQ+ community and the legacy of tolerance and inclusivity that it has fought for. We celebrate the continued advancement of those ideals and look forward to participating in the selection of the Yankees-Stonewall Class of 2022."

Stacy Lentz, the CEO of the Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative and Co-owner of The Stonewall Inn, said, in a statement that, "it's incredible to see the impact it has had on the students who have received the scholarship. We are excited to keep partnering to make sure LGBTQ+ students are able to thrive and succeed. This annual scholarship demonstrates the Yankees' commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community by giving funds and bringing awareness to creating future change-makers."