Press Release

The latest news, milestones, and stories from the Make It Happen Foundation — straight from the heart of the USVI community.

The Make It Happen Foundation's 1st Scholarship Recipient Graduates from Howard University

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands — May 11, 2026

St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands — The Make It Happen Foundation, Inc. proudly celebrates a major milestone: its first scholarship recipient, Gelysia Anderson, graduated on May 7, 2026, from Howard University with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a minor in Sociology.

Gelysia's achievement represents more than academic success. It is a powerful example of what happens when a community steps in to support its own.

Many students face financial challenges near graduation. Reports indicated that approximately 100 students at Howard University had outstanding tuition balances that prevented them from fully participating in graduation activities. Thanks to the collective support of the USVI community through the Make It Happen Foundation, Gelysia was able to proudly walk across the stage and celebrate this important milestone — without that financial burden.

"This was and is exactly my intent and the reason why the Make It Happen Foundation exists," said Nykole Tyson, Founder of the Make It Happen Foundation.

Over the past five months, the Make It Happen Foundation worked closely with Gelysia, providing not only critical financial assistance toward tuition and housing but also mentorship and guidance as she navigated the challenges of completing her final semester, ensuring she crossed the finish line successfully. Her accomplishment reflects what can happen when a community comes together and invests in its students' success.

We are also proud to share that Gelysia has been accepted to the University of Maryland, College Park, where she will pursue her graduate degree in Psychology.”

The Make It Happen Foundation is grateful to all the sponsors, golfers, supporting businesses, partners, donors, and the overall community for being part of the inaugural T-Off-4 Tuition ™ Golf Benefit Fundraiser held in the summer of 2025. Those participants made this opportunity possible for Gelysia and many more students to come.

We recognize our 2025 Platinum Sponsors: the Office of Governor Albert Bryan Jr., the VI Lottery, NAPA, and the VI Public Finance Authority, along with our Gold Sponsor: the USVI Department of Tourism. We also thank valued partners and supporters, including Cost-U-Less, West Indies Company, Bellows International, Captain Morgan, High Noon, NT Media, and I'm Making It Happen radio/TV shows. A full list of sponsors, contributors, and supporters can be found at makeithappenfoundation.org

Originally from the U.S. Virgin Islands, Gelysia’s journey now stands as a beacon of hope for other students facing similar challenges, reinforcing the Foundation’s mission to empower youth through education, mentorship, and opportunity. The Foundation is currently seeking additional students to assist with college expenses, trade school costs, and professional certifications, helping to create pathways toward long-term career success and economic opportunity.

Continuing the Mission

The Make It Happen Foundation remains committed to expanding its impact by supporting more students across the Virgin Islands through mentorship and financial assistance.

The Foundation’s 2nd Annual T-Off 4 Tuition Golf Benefit Fundraiser is scheduled for August 22nd and 23rd at the Carambola Golf Club. This signature event raises funds to provide scholarships and educational support for students in need.

Community members, businesses, and supporters are encouraged to:

For more information, please visit makeithappenfoundation.org or call 857-575-2865.

About Make It Happen Foundation

The Make It Happen Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in the U.S. Virgin Islands, dedicated to empowering youth through education, personal development, mentorship, and essential life skills. Through scholarships and community support, the Foundation helps students overcome financial barriers and achieve their goals.

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