{"id":7734,"date":"2026-06-07T05:14:05","date_gmt":"2026-06-07T09:14:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/yemeniamerican.com\/en\/?p=7734"},"modified":"2026-06-07T05:14:08","modified_gmt":"2026-06-07T09:14:08","slug":"aaysp-holds-16th-annual-scholarship-gala-celebrating-excellence-leadership-and-community-in-detroit-metro","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/yemeniamerican.com\/en\/aaysp-holds-16th-annual-scholarship-gala-celebrating-excellence-leadership-and-community-in-detroit-metro\/","title":{"rendered":"AAYSP Holds 16th Annual Scholarship Gala: Celebrating Excellence, Leadership, and Community in Detroit Metro"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

By Adel A. Mozip, Yemeni American News<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

June 5, 2026<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lincoln Park, MI<\/strong> \u2014 The American Association of Yemeni Students and Professionals (AAYSP) successfully hosted its 16th Annual Scholarship Gala<\/strong> on Wednesday, June 3, 2026, at the Lincoln Manor Banquet Hall & Event Center in Lincoln Park, Michigan. The event brought together hundreds of students, families, educators, community leaders, and supporters to celebrate academic achievement, honor outstanding contributors, and reaffirm the organization\u2019s commitment to empowering the next generation of Yemeni Americans.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The evening highlighted AAYSP\u2019s ongoing mission to bridge educational gaps, promote higher education, and build leadership pathways within the Yemeni American community. Since its founding two decades ago, AAYSP has grown into a leading 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supportin students and professionals across Michigan and beyond.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keynote Address and Inspirational Moments<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Dr. Jamilah Alhashidi, a respected Family Medicine physician and former AAYSP scholarship recipient, delivered the keynote speech. Her journey from scholarship awardee to community leader served as a powerful testament to the impact of AAYSP\u2019s programs and the potential within the Yemeni American community. Attendees were moved by stories of perseverance, academic excellence, and service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In her remarks, Dr. Alhashidi emphasized the transformative power of education and perseverance:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cEducation opened doors for me that I never imagined possible. As a former AAYSP scholarship recipient, I stand before you today as proof that with dedication, support from our community, and faith in Allah, we can achieve our dreams and give back even more.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

She encouraged the students to embrace challenges and stay committed to their goals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u201cThere will be obstacles \u2014 cultural expectations, financial pressures, and self-doubt \u2014 but remember that every struggle builds resilience. Use your education not just for personal success, but as a tool to serve your families, your community, and beyond. Dream bigger, lead with purpose, and never forget where you came from.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dr. Alhashidi also highlighted the importance of mentorship and community support, urging families to continue investing in higher education and encouraging the youth to pursue careers in medicine, leadership, and public service.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The gala featured emotional testimonials, student performances, and networking opportunities that strengthened community ties. A highlight video of the event, shared on AAYSP\u2019s Facebook page, captures the vibrant atmosphere, award presentations, and collective pride of the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Award Recipients and Scholarship Honorees<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

AAYSP recognized exceptional individuals across several categories for their leadership, service, and dedication:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Principal of the Year Award<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

AAYSP honored Hebat Abdelbaki<\/strong>, Principal of Stout Middle School<\/strong> (Dearborn Public Schools), and Leola Banks<\/strong>, Principal of Dickinson West Elementary<\/strong> (Hamtramck Public Schools). Both were recognized for their outstanding leadership, dedication to student success, and creating supportive learning environments that uplift Yemeni American and all students in their schools. Their commitment to visibility, equity, and excellence sets a powerful example for educators across the community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Community Member of the Year Award<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nasser Shariff<\/strong> was recognized for his longstanding dedication, service, and positive impact on the Yemeni American community through mentorship, advocacy, and leadership.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Administrator of the Year Award<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Honorees included Afrah Mohamed (Universal Academy) Nabih Salem (Frontier Academy), Nail Jadallah (9th Grade Assistant Principal at Fordson High School – Dearborn Public Schools), and Afrin Alavi (Principal at Dearborn Academy). They were celebrated for their exceptional administrative leadership and unwavering support for students and families.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Teacher of the Year Awards<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Multiple outstanding educators were recognized for their excellence in the classroom and commitment to Yemeni American students:<\/p>\n\n\n\n