About the Scholarship

The Imam Umar Abdul-Jalil Scholarship Fund was established in 2023 by Muslims Employed in City Corrections Association, Inc. (MECCA) to honor the legacy of the late Assistant Commissioner Imam Umar Abdul-Jalil, a co-founder of MECCA and its first Education Chair Imam Umar was a transformative leader whose lifelong dedication to faith, education, service, and justice helped shape MECCA’s foundation and mission. His leadership and unwavering commitment to the Muslim community within the New York City Department of Correction continue to inspire generations. This scholarship supports educational excellence and community upliftment through Islamic values by investing in the academic and personal development of students and families served by MECCA.
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Purpose of the Scholarship

The purpose of the Imam Umar Abdul-Jalil Scholarship Fund is to support students in their pursuit of academic achievement, personal growth, and leadership development. The scholarship reflects MECCA’s commitment to education, service, and the cultivation of principled leaders who exemplify integrity and community responsibility.
Scholarships are awarded annually in recognition of merit, character, and alignment with the values upheld by MECCA.

Eligibility

The Imam Umar Abdul-Jalil Scholarship is primarily intended to support:

• High school seniors graduating in the spring

• Students currently enrolled in an accredited college or university

• Children or legal dependents of MECCA members in good standing
(General or Associate Membership categories)

When funding permits, the Scholarship Committee may also
consider:

• Applications from MECCA members who are returning to school

Eligibility requirements, award categories, and the number of scholarships granted are determined annually by the Scholarship Committee, with oversight by the Executive Committee through consultation (Shura), and are subject to available funding.

Selection Criteria

Scholarship recipients are selected through a comprehensive review process that considers:

• Academic achievement and commitment to education
• Leadership potential
• Demonstrated good character and integrity
• Community involvement and service
• Alignment with MECCA’s mission and values

All applications are reviewed during the designated application period. Incomplete or late submissions will not be considered.

All scholarship decisions are made through consultation (Shura) and reflect MECCA’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and accountability.

Award Presentation

Scholarship recipients are notified in writing following the completion of the review process.

Scholarships are formally presented during MECCA’s Annual Awards Banquet and Imam Umar Abdul-Jalil Scholarship Fundraiser, where recipients are recognized for their academic achievements, character, and commitment to excellence.

How to Apply

Applicants must complete the official scholarship application during the designated application period.
Applications are primarily submitted online through MECCA’s official scholarship application portal. Paper applications may be made available upon request when necessary.
Application timelines, deadlines, and required materials will be announced annually.
For Scholarship inquires or additional information, please contact:
📧 info@meccanycd.org

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