The Anderson/Harris Pathways to Impact Memorial Scholarship

The Orelia Anderson & Tiffany Harris Memorial Scholarship was created to celebrate the spirit of service, leadership, and compassion within our communities. Designed for students interested in educational leadership and social work. This scholarship award supports individuals who strive to make a difference in the lives of others. Applicants should demonstrate a commitment to supporting youth, families, individuals and/or communities through education, advocacy, and service. This scholarship honors future leaders the belief that strong and caring leaders can transform lives and strengthen communities for generations to come.

This scholarship honors the life and legacy of Orelia “Lia” Anderson, who embodied service, compassion, and resilience in every aspect of her life. Guided by her personal experiences and an unwavering passion for helping others, Lia pursued a career in Social Work, dedicating herself to supporting underserved and marginalized communities. Throughout her career, she served in multiple roles, advocating for individuals and families, empowering them to overcome barriers, and helping them find pathways to healing, growth, and long-term success. Her work was not simply a profession, but a calling rooted in empathy, dignity, and justice. Regardless of the challenges she faced, Lia consistently created opportunities not only to transform her own life, but to positively impact the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her. She believed in meeting people where they were, offering both practical support and genuine compassion. This scholarship reflects her deep commitment to impacting the community and honors aspiring social workers and service-driven leaders who demonstrate resilience, integrity, and a heartfelt dedication to uplifting others.


This scholarship honors the life and legacy ofTiffany Harris, who devoted her life to education, service, and uplifting others. Inspired by her grandfather, a school district superintendent, she developed a passion for learning at an early age and committed herself to helping others understand the transformative power of education. She graduated early from high school in the 11th grade and earned a full four-year scholarship to the college of her choice, later becoming the principal of a Title I elementary school in Sacramento, where she tirelessly advocated for students facing significant challenges and always believed deeply in their potential. A kind, generous, and faith-centered woman, Tiffany dedicated her time to her church, community, and sorority by consistently encouraging others to pursue their dreams. Education was not simply her profession—it was her calling. This scholarship honors her unwavering commitment to excellence and service, and it is our hope that each recipient will carry forward her legacy by striving for academic achievement, leadership, and meaningful impact in their communities.

QUALIFICATIONS TO APPLY

  1. Applicant must be Female and Black, African American, or of African Descent 

  2. Applicants must reside in Sacramento County

  3. Applicants must be graduating seniors in High School who have been accepted and intend to attend a four-year accredited college or university for the fall of 2026.

  4. Applicants must have a minimum cumulative 2.75 GPA or higher. 

ELECTRONIC APPLICATION PROCEDURE

  1. This application is available to submit at www.omegalambdazeta.org, click on “Scholarship.”

  2. All directions below must be followed, or the applicant will be disqualified. All interested applicants must type, complete, and submit by April 23, 2026.

ELIGIBILITY AND APPLICATION PROCEDURE

  1. All official transcripts can be uploaded to this application, or can be sent via email to: olzchapter2ndvicepresident@gmail.com or by mail to: Omega Lambda Zeta Chapter, Attn: Scholarship Chair, P.O. Box 1874, Rancho Cordova, CA 95741

  2. All documents must be submitted, emailed, mailed and/or postmarked by April 23, 2026.

  3. Scholarship Winner will be contacted by May 11, 2026.

SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION QUESTIONS NEEDED TO SUBMIT & QUALIFY FOR SCHOLARSHIP - ONLY ANSWER 1 OF 3 QUESTIONS [200 words max]

  1. Who influenced your decision to serve others, and what did you learn from them that shapes your work today?

  2. Tell us about a time you saw a gap in resources or support. How did you respond or how do you hope to respond in your career or educational journey?

  3. Describe how your future profession will help you better serve individuals or communities in the future? What changes do you hope to implement/contribute to education and societal systems?

DOCUMENTS NEEDED TO SUBMIT & QUALIFY FOR SCHOLARSHIP

  1. An official transcript must be uploaded or sent directly from school’s registrar office to the email or mailing address below by THURSDAY- APRIL 23, 2026.

  2. Scholarship Application Question

  3. Personal Essay Times New Roman 12’ font double space (500-word Essay)

  4. Activities Record detailing your extracurricular activities, community involvement, and volunteer experiences.

  5. Two (2) Letters of recommendation typed on letter head. 1 from a teacher or faculty, and 1 from someone in the community.