Paul Central seniors who demonstrate a creative vision for their lives. About DSSF:
The Devin Smith Scholarship Foundation will award college scholarships to students from St. Paul Central High School because it is a place that embraces diversity and fosters academic excellence. Forty languages are spoken in the homes of St. Paul Central students, and the student body reflects the diverse communi
ty that it serves (33% Caucasian, 32% Black/non-Hispanic, 29% Asian, Pacific Islander, 5% Hispanic, 1% Native American). The school has also been named a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, and sent 92% of its graduates to higher education institutions in 2011. Central is proud of its diversity, as stated in the school motto “Many Traditions, One School.” Students share their unique experiences with one another, creating an exceptional learning and creative environment that prepares students for a future in a diverse and challenging world. The Devin Smith Scholarship Foundation also will address the financial burden placed on students and their families as they further their education. In 2011, 58% of Central students qualified for free or reduced lunch. Financial need is an obstacle for many students in their pursuit of higher education. The foundation scholarships are intended to lessen this burden for its recipients. About Devin Smith:
Devin Lomax Smith was born on February 6, 1989, and grew up in St. He was a proud graduate of Capitol Hill Magnet School and a 2007 graduate of St. Paul Central High School. He was a writer, poet and rapper. While in high school, along with fellow students at Central, he formed a hip hop band called Tea Party. Devin graduated from New York University in May, 2011, with a degree in Arabic, Middle Eastern studies, and creative writing. He wanted to follow his dreams and was working on a CD with his New York band, Wino, for which he rhymed and wrote. Devin travelled the world, and wrote music and poetry every day. Devin died on July 3, 2011. He would want to be remembered for his fearless creative vision. He cherished the diversity of his hometown and high school, and would be happy to know that scholarships at St. Paul Central in his memory will make it possible for others to follow their own dreams.
