This national program initially worked solely with independent boarding schools. In the early 1970s, the program expanded to include fine public schools. In 1974, Guilford became one of the first ABC Community School Programs in the country.

ABC provides a college-preparatory education at Guilford high School, support services like tutors, college advisors, educational enrichment programs and and a home at the beautiful ABC house. It’s and incredible opportunity for academically talented young women who would not otherwise have access to the high school experiences most colleges expect.

Longtime ABC board member Connie Dickinson took the program to another level by starting the Guilford ABC Education Fund, which designates $2,500 scholarships to be given to all graduating scholars, ever year for all four years of college. The first award was granted in 2019.

While working with one of the graduating seniors on college acceptances and financial aid packages, Connie realized there was a big gap for these scholars. The students typically get some money from the school and grants, but more is needed. The girls often have to take two or three jobs to make ends meet, while attending college full time. The Guilford A Better Chance Educational Fund scholarships ease the financial stress for the scholars.

Guilford ABC (A Better Chance) is a life-changing program for gifted young women of color from under-resourced communities. Those involved would love to see the fund grow, so the size of the scholarships increase as tuition and college expenses continue to rise.

To learn more abut the Guilford A Better Chance program, click here.