History

During her tenure at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts, Roz White—an esteemed member of D.I.V.A. Inc. since 1991—launched a transformative mentorship initiative: The D.I.V.A. Incorporated Tea Salon. This special tradition was created in honor of one of the organization’s six founders, Danette Austin Wills, and has since become a powerful bridge connecting generations of artists. Held on the historic campus of Howard University, the Tea Salon brings together accomplished alumni from Howard University, D.I.V.A. members, and talented young women from the Duke Ellington School of the Arts. The event offers a unique opportunity for these emerging artists to explore the legacy of the College of Fine Arts, where D.I.V.A. Inc. was founded, while engaging in meaningful networking and receiving invaluable guidance from seasoned professionals across various artistic disciplines. To participate, each young woman submits an essay reflecting on the personal motivations and inspirations behind her journey as an artist. The inaugural Tea Salon took place in 2017 at Howard University’s Blackburn Center, marking the beginning of a tradition that continues to nurture and empower the next generation of creative leaders.

Objective

Highlight an outstanding high school graduating senior of the arts who will attend an HBCU, by presenting them with a $1000 award to be used towards their artistic journey.

Award Requirements

• GPA of 3.0 for the Fall/Spring semesters
• Leadership in high school  
• Community Engagement
• Applicants must write a 500- word essay on, “What is your 5-year plan upon graduation?” (Inclusive of artistic goals leading up to graduation)
• 1 letter of recommendation from a faculty member

Application Details

*The award recipients will be honored at the Danette Austin Writer’s Tea Salon

Inquiries

For any questions, contact us