On June 2, the City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation and the Conference of Minority Transportation Officials (COMTO) Philadelphia leaders celebrated the next generation of leaders furthering their education for entry and advancement within the transportation industry. The COMTO Philadelphia Scholarship Awards Program recognizes student honorees and their educational achievements.
“No matter how unlikely students may think their presence here today is, it’s not accidental,” said Department of Aviation CEO Atif Saeed. “Our country needs their leadership. We are all dependent on the next generation to bring in their excellence. I congratulate them on their journey so far. I wish them the best in achieving their vision and will remain a mentor to them.”
Over 20 high school, undergraduate and graduate students in various liberal arts and STEM fields received scholarships towards their tuition. The total amount awarded at the ceremony reached $50,000. Since 1981, COMTO Philadelphia has awarded over $1 million in scholarships to date.
In addition to recognizing scholarship recipients, Toyin Ogunfolaju, an engineer with Jacobs, received the COMTO Philadelphia Outstanding Committee Chair award. Ogunfolaju is a program/project manager for Jacobs’ work with the Department of Aviation. “I'm just thankful for the opportunity to collaborate with my brilliant, unique, powerhouse colleagues in the Philadelphia Chapter,” she said. “We work in service to the organization and broader society.”
Highschool student Alphonso Evans, Jr. received the COMTO Philadelphia scholarship in honor of Clarence Bragman. He plans on attending Howard University in the fall, majoring in Music and Business. “A lot of people have put their hearts into giving back to the community and students,” said Evans, Jr. “I thank COMTO Philadelphia and the Bragman family for this scholarship.”
As part of its initiatives to assist minorities in the transportation industry in the Philadelphia area, the COMTO Philadelphia Chapter has strived to provide opportunities for their advancement. As a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, COMTO unites individuals, groups, corporations, nonprofits, and Historically Underutilized Businesses.
