THE CHRISTOPHER J. AND PENSAL McCRAY SCHOLARSHIP was established to commemorate their great contributions to community, education, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Dr. Christophe J. McCray, as the first African-American Optometrist in Denver, established a successful medical practice. Pensal McCray was a piano teacher and founder of the Ethnic College Counseling Center (ECCC). Dr. McCray assisted and supported Mrs. McCray, who ran the ECCC. They believed every child could go to college.

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The Scholarship supports America’s HBCUs by helping high achieving students pursue higher education at an HBCU. The award, funded by individuals, businesses, and organizations in the community, provides nonrenewable scholarships to deserving high school juniors and seniors who are members of the ECCC with at least a 3.0 GPA. Recipients must retain full-time status at an accredited four-year HBCU. Depending on funds available, up to$1,000 (or more) will be applied toward tuition or room and board. Click for the 2025 Scholarship Application.

​​OPENS:  08/01/2025 12:00 AM MST      CLOSES:  09/1/2025 12:00 AM MST