Founded by Julian Jarrett, a student leader at Howard University, The Juventas Foundation was established to expand educational access while developing the next generation of Black leaders through scholarships, mentorship, leadership development, and service. Built on the motto Alter Alterum Elevet — “Let each elevate the other” — the organization believes that success carries a responsibility to create opportunities for others. The guiding principle reflects the foundation’s mission of ensuring that individual achievement leads to collective advancement by investing in future generations.

“The foundation was created from a belief that talent should never be limited by circumstance and that those who have been given opportunities have a responsibility to create opportunities for others,” the organization states.

The foundation’s first initiatives include two scholarship programs designed specifically to support incoming first-year Black men attending Howard University.

The Elevare Vir Scholarship, which translates to “to elevate the man,” recognizes students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, resilience, community service, and a commitment to uplifting those around them.

Alongside it, the Promissum 1867 Scholarship—named after the Latin word meaning “promise” and honoring Howard University’s founding year—will provide support to students who embody the promise of future leadership and service.

While scholarships serve as the organization’s first major initiative, The Juventas Foundation has a much broader vision. The nonprofit aims to become a long-term platform that cultivates leaders, expands access to opportunity, and equips students with the resources needed to thrive throughout their educational and professional journeys.

The organization’s name, Juventas, comes from the Latin word for “youth.” Latin was intentionally chosen because it serves as the foundation for many modern languages, symbolizing the role the foundation hopes to play in the lives of young scholars as they begin one of the most transformative chapters of their academic careers. 

Jarrett says the inspiration for the foundation came during his freshman year at Howard University after witnessing firsthand the financial challenges many students face while pursuing higher education. At the same time, he became increasingly aware of the ongoing decline in Black male college enrollment nationwide, motivating him to create an organization focused on addressing both issues.

Although the foundation’s initial focus is on supporting incoming Black men at Howard University, its long-term vision extends far beyond a single campus. Through scholarships, mentorship, leadership development, and community service, The Juventas Foundation hopes to grow into a lasting institution dedicated to empowering Black scholars across the country.

To learn more about the foundation and apply for scholarships, visit the website HERE

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