A group of inspiring women from the East Side of Wichita Falls, known as the Fab 5, is back for their third annual scholarship giveaway. What started as a heartfelt mission to give back to their community has grown into a meaningful tradition that’s changing young lives.
The Fab 5: From the Projects to Professionals
The Fab 5 includes Dr. Sonja Calliste, Sophia Adair, Cheryl Lynn, Stacy Barrett, and Jackie Oatts-Campbell — five African American women who all grew up in the projects and went on to become professionals. Their goal? To lift others as they climb.
“We’ve all grown and have become professional people,” said Calliste. “This is our way of giving back — just letting everybody know that it doesn’t matter where you start, it’s where you end.”
Fundraising With Flavor
To raise money for this year’s scholarships, the Fab 5 got creative. Over the weekend, they offered to-go plates packed with ribs, chicken, collard greens, beans, and more. Orders poured in as the community showed its support, not just for the food, but for the cause behind it.
Even if you missed the meal sale on Saturday, April 5, you can still contribute. Just reach out to Dr. Sonja Calliste via Facebook to donate and support this community-driven initiative.
Scholarships Open to Multiple High Schools
The Fab 5 are offering three scholarships this year. Students from the following high schools are eligible to apply:
- Legacy High School
- Memorial High School
- Burkburnett High School
- City View High School
Applications are available through the school counselors at each eligible school, and the deadline to apply is April 30.
All Students Welcome to Apply
While the Fab 5’s story is rooted in their East Side background, their mission reaches far beyond. “Race, gender — we don’t care,” said Adair. “Just any means necessary to help these children, help these young adults.”
Their scholarships are open to all students regardless of background, showing that what really matters is a student’s drive and dreams.