For Kristan Radcliffe-Stephens, every story has the power to inspire, connect and create change. Whether through poetry, theater or television, the Bennett College (a UNCF-member institution) student is determined to use her voice to entertain audiences while uplifting others through the art of storytelling.

With support from the Enterprise Holdings ROAD Forward Scholarship, administered by UNCF, Radcliffe-Stephens is one step closer to making that dream a reality. “The scholarship money alleviates some of the stress every semester, getting through the financial process,” she said.

Receiving this scholarship provided more than financial assistance—it gave her renewed confidence in her academic journey. “It motivated me to keep applying for things and keep my grades as high as they are,” said Radcliffe-Stephens, who maintains a perfect 4.0 grade point average. “I’ve always applied for scholarships, and this is the second one I’ve received. It motivated me to keep going.”

Radcliffe-Stephens is majoring in interdisciplinary studies with concentrations in creative writing and theater and a minor in English. Her creative interests span a variety of genres. “I love romantic writing, sitcoms and scripted series and dramas and comedies,” she said. “I also really love musicals. And poetry—I’m a spoken word artist.”

She expects to graduate in 2029, and then plans to pursue a master of fine arts (MFA) in creative writing before building a career as an executive writer in TV and production management.

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Although Bennett is one of the nation’s smallest HBCUs, Radcliffe-Stephens believes its close-knit community is one of the college’s greatest strengths. “We’re very mighty in our own way,” she said. “I love the sisterhood and unity of it.”

“I didn’t choose Bennett,” she continued. “Bennett chose me.”

Originally from San Antonio, TX, Radcliffe-Stephens traveled by herself to Atlanta, GA, after learning about a scholarship opportunity through New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. During a service at the church, she was invited to the stage with a group of young women, where an unexpected announcement changed the course of her life. It was at that church service that she met Bennett College President (Interim) Dr. Teresa Hardee, who announced that the entire group of young women were receiving scholarships to attend Bennett.

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Since arriving on campus, Radcliffe-Stephens has embraced Bennett’s traditions. She recalls the college’s annual convocation ceremony, where students dress up in white and walk through the historic Black Gates as they are welcomed into the Bennett sisterhood. “We get pearled,” she said. “The pearls represent purity, unity and strength.” The ceremony symbolizes the lifelong bond and legacy shared among Bennett Belles, she explained.

Radcliffe-Stephens plans to join Bennett’s UNCF Ambassador chapter, helping to share opportunities with her peers. In this way, she will give back before even graduating.

Students like Radcliffe-Stephens demonstrate the transformative power of educational opportunity. Through UNCF scholarships, we help students overcome financial barriers while empowering them to pursue their passions and move into their next chapters of success.

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