L-R: Anissa Burrell-Butler, External Relations Co-Chair, DuPage County ACT-SO Program; Dorletta Ekei Payton-GLEA; Yvonne Nkoyo Taylor-GLEA; Edward Mason, Scholarship recipient; Amania Asari Drane-GLEA; and Chioma Ada George-GLEA.

On March 22, 2026, the Great Lakes Efik Association (GLEA) awarded two $500 scholarships to outstanding students in recognition of their academic excellence and commitment to community service.

Both scholarship recipients were active participants in the NAACP’s ACT-SO program. ACT-SO (Afro-Academic, Cultural, Technological and Scientific Olympics) is a nationwide initiative that promotes academic achievement, cultural enrichment, and leadership development among African American high school students. The seven-month program includes leadership development workshops, one-on-one mentoring, and community service activities.

Among the graduating seniors who participated in ACT-SO, GLEA selected Edward (“Eddie”) Mason and Kamryn Engram as its 2026 scholarship recipients.

Edward “Eddie” Mason

Eddie Mason, who earned a 3.8 GPA, participated in the Medicine and Health category and demonstrated a strong commitment to academic achievement and service. He plans to attend Ohio State University to study biology.

L-R: Anissa Burrell-Butler, External Relations Co-Chair, DuPage County ACT-SO Program; Dorletta Ekei Payton-GLEA; Yvonne Nkoyo Taylor-GLEA; Kamryn Engram, Scholarship recipient; Amania Asari Drane-GLEA; and Chioma Ada George-GLEA.

Kamryn Engram

Kamryn Engram, who earned a 4.4 GPA, competed in the Poetry Writing, Photography, and Original Essay categories, showcasing exceptional talent across multiple disciplines. She plans to attend the University of Southern California (USC) to study journalism and pre-law.