Oracle Set Foundation, Inc.

The Winners Circle

__________

    Shannodora Hollis, the first place awardee for AY 2002 is a graduate of the BenjaminBanneker Academic High School. While Ms. Hollis was accepted into Syracuse University (NY), the University of Florida, Drexel University (PA), Michigan State University, Rutgers University (NJ), and Ohio State University -- she chose to attend North Carolina State University.

    While at Banneker, Ms. Hollis had a poem published by the DC Poet laureate; received honorable mentions in the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership Essay Contest and the DC Links Talent Search for Young Black Writers Contest in 2000; placed third in the DC Links Talent Search for Young Black Writers Contest in 2001; and placed second in the DC-CAP Essay Contest. In addition, Ms. Hollis was Summa cum Luade in the National Latin Exam, received several science awards, and was second runner-up in the DCIAA Volleyball Championship in 2001.

    Ms. Hollis plans to become a chemical engineer and to continue writing poetry.

    R. Kayeen Thomas, the second place awardee for AY 2002, is a graduate of the Benjamin Banneker Academic High School. Though Mr. Thomas was accepted in the University of Delaware, Morehouse College, and Virginia Commonwealth University -- he chose to attend Carleton College (MN).

    Mr. Thomas plans to attend law school after he completes undergraduate school and to become an attorney and published author. He has already authored two books and was awarded the White House Correspondents' Association Essay Prize; wrote an editorial column, The Thomas Files, for the Children's Express Worldwide News Network; and two of his commentaries were published by Jim Lear's online news hour, The Buzz. While at Banneker, Mr. Thomas also placed first in the Sons of the American Revolution Essay Contest, the DC Links Talent Search for Young Black Writers Contest in 2001, and the Benjamin Banneker Academic High School Poetry Contest.

    When Mr. Thomas is not writing he is giving back to his community, involved in his church, working as a lifeguard, or practicing Tae Kwon Do.

 No awards were distributed for AY 2003