The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority (FCRHA) awarded 10 affordable housing residents scholarships for post-secondary education. Recipients were recognized during the FCRHA’s meeting on July 20, 2023.

“We are truly inspired by our scholarship awardees. They plan to study teaching, medicine, criminology, IT and other professions. We are hopeful they will consider making a positive impact here in Fairfax County after they complete their studies,” said Melissa McKenna, Chairman, Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority.

Awardees include*:

Hanaa Azzouzi, Alexandria

Yolanda Marie Castillo, Alexandria

Ashlee Forbes, Herndon

Cherron Johnson, Alexandria

Israa Al Mashhadani, Burke

Phuong Anh Quach, Falls Church

Lerman Abdoulakder Waiss, Centreville

*not all awardees chose to be listed.

About the Scholarships

The Fairfax County Redevelopment and Housing Authority established the scholarship program to promote higher learning among individuals and families receiving housing assistance. $50,000 in scholarships were awarded at $5,000 per recipient.

Scholarships are designed to promote postsecondary education and technical training for Fairfax County residents who live in affordable housing supported by the FCRHA. Scholarships were awarded based on academic achievements and other factors. To qualify, scholarship awardees must have been a member of a household currently receiving housing assistance through the FCRHA; a resident of Fairfax County for at least six months prior to application deadline; and accepted into an accredited post-secondary education institution. All scholarships are funded with federal dollars.