Sponsor-A-Scholar, Class of 1996 | Benjamin Franklin High School, ’96 | Penn State University ’01, Bachelor of Science in Accounting, Minor in Business Law | Philadelphia University ’12, Master of Science in Taxation
“College and where I would end up in life was something I seldom considered until I became part of Philadelphia Futures.”
When the Sponsor-A-Scholar Program was still in its early stages of development, Melvin Pitts was urged by his eighth grade guidance counselor to apply to “this new program.” Though the concept of college was still unfamiliar, Melvin knew that he wanted a career that would not only provide financial independence, but also would be professionally and personally rewarding. Melvin spent hours in the Philadelphia Futures office with staff members who helped him select a college and navigate the overwhelming admissions process. Attending Penn State’s Smeal College of Business introduced him to the field of accounting and opened doors of opportunity. Today, Melvin balances his career with his responsibilities to his young family. Melvin has been connected to the Philadelphia Futures community for over 20 years now, and his life is a testament to his commitment to his own success.