The first scholarship recipient of the Make It Happen Foundation has officially graduated from Howard University, marking a milestone moment for the young nonprofit and the community supporters who helped make it possible.
Gelysia Anderson, originally from the U.S. Virgin Islands, earned her degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology on May 7, reaching the milestone with support from the Make It Happen Foundation during her final months at the university
According to the foundation, Anderson was among students facing outstanding university balances near graduation, an issue that affected participation in commencement-related activities for some at Howard. Through financial assistance raised by the Make It Happen Foundation and support from donors and sponsors across the territory, Anderson was able to walk across the stage without that burden hanging over her.
“This was and is exactly my intent and the reason why the Make It Happen Foundation exists,” founder Nykole Tyson said in a statement.
Over the past five months, the organization said it worked closely with Anderson, helping provide tuition and housing support, along with mentorship and guidance as she completed her final semester.
And her journey is just beginning. The foundation also announced that Anderson has been accepted into the graduate Psychology program at the University of Maryland, College Park.
The Make It Happen Foundation credited much of the support to its inaugural T-Off-4 Tuition Golf Benefit Fundraiser, held in the summer of 2025, which brought together sponsors, businesses, donors, and community members to help students facing financial barriers continue their education.
The organization specifically recognized support from platinum sponsors including the Office of Governor Albert Bryan Jr., the Virgin Islands Lottery, NAPA, and the Virgin Islands Public Finance Authority, along with gold sponsor the Virgin Islands Department of Tourism. Additional supporters included Cost-U-Less, West Indies Company, Bellows International, Captain Morgan, High Noon, NT Media, and the “I’m Making It Happen” radio and television programs.
Foundation leaders said Anderson’s accomplishment reflects the nonprofit’s broader mission of helping Virgin Islands students pursue higher education, trade programs, and professional certifications through mentorship and financial assistance.
The Make It Happen Foundation’s second annual T-Off 4 Tuition Golf Benefit Fundraiser is scheduled for Aug. 22 and 23 at Carambola Golf Club. Organizers said proceeds from the event will continue supporting scholarships and educational assistance for students across the territory.
