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Uplifting Communities. Inspiring Generations.

Since 2004, the Sphinx Educational Fund (SEF) has been at the forefront of empowering minority youth and championing community progress. Built on the pillars of Scholarship, Mentorship, and Health Awareness, SEF is a catalyst for positive change in the Greater Phoenix area and beyond.

Guided by the legacy of Justice Thurgood Marshall, we strive to create opportunities that inspire young leaders to excel academically, thrive personally, and serve their communities with compassion and purpose.

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Milestones In Our Journey:

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2004: Launch of the Thurgood Marshall Scholarship Brunch, our signature fundraising event.

2012: Expansion into health awareness initiatives with the Arizona Men’s Health & Wellness Expo.


2024: SEF celebrates 20 years of providing scholarships to youth in the greater Phoenix area.


Today: A thriving nonprofit improving lives through a holistic approach to education, mentorship, and advocacy.

By remaining committed to these core pillars, SEF continues to honor its mission of fostering equity and opportunity for all. Education is the foundation of progress. Through SEF, we are laying the groundwork for future leaders to succeed.

Impact By The Numbers

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Leadership That Inspires Change

Behind every successful initiative, is a team of dedicated leaders who believe in the transformative power of education and advocacy. SEF’s officers and board members bring diverse expertise, a passion for service, and a shared vision for empowering communities. Together, this team ensures that SEF remains a trusted and impactful force for good.

Officers:

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President

Edward Williams

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Vice President

Carl Smith

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Secretary

Ernest Ware

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Treasurer

Robert Crosby III, Ph.D.

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Board of Directors:

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Chairman of the Board

Edward Williams

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Immediate Past Chairman

& Board Director

Michael McClain

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Board Director

Dr. Jason Callaman

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Board Director

Earl Duval, Ph.D.

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Board Director

Ralph Thompson

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Board Director

Leslie Scott

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Board Director

Marquis Scott

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Board Director

Julius Williams

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Moments That Define Our Mission

From joyous scholarship award ceremonies to impactful mentorship workshops and community health events, our gallery captures the essence of SEF’s work.

Explore snapshots of SEF positively impacting our community.

"It was an honor to be selected as a recipient of the Sphinx Educational Fund’s Thurgood Marshall Scholarship. The scholarship provided financial support that not only allowed me to pursue my academic goals but also removed a level of stress related to financing my education. I will be forever thankful to the Sphinx Educational Fund, the Delta Tau Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated and the Thurgood Marshall Fund."

Malik Barton

 

Howard University Class of 2027

Thurgood Marshall College Fund Brunch

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