Taraji P. Henson & Phylicia Rashad Bless Howard Student

Talk about a full-circle moment! Taraji P. Henson and Phylicia Rashad just changed a young queen’s life in the best way possible. The two powerhouse women revived the Dr. Andrew Allen Sr. Memorial Scholarship, a fund that once helped Taraji finish her own journey at Howard University. And now, it’s doing the same for Howard junior Trinity Garrison, who just received a $25,000 scholarship—live on national TV!

But this scholarship isn’t just any award—it’s deeply personal. It was created by Phylicia Rashad and her sister, the legendary Debbie Allen, in memory of their late father, Dr. Andrew Allen Sr. A proud Howard alum, Dr. Allen graduated from the College of Dentistry in 1945, leaving behind a legacy of excellence, resilience, and community uplift. Now, his name continues to open doors for the next generation of brilliant Black scholars.

Imagine sitting on TODAY with Jenna & Friends, thinking you’re just there to talk, and then BOOM—your entire future shifts in an instant. That’s exactly what happened when Taraji and Phylicia surprised Trinity with the scholarship, making sure she has the support she needs to complete her education.

For Taraji, this was personal. Back when she was at Howard, she needed that same financial help to push through, and this scholarship came through for her. Now, she’s giving back in the most meaningful way, making sure another young Black woman has the same chance to soar.

And let’s not forget Phylicia Rashad, a true icon and champion for Black excellence. As a Howard alum and the former Dean of the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts, she’s always about pouring into the next generation.

This is what legacy looks like—lifting as you climb, making sure the door stays open for the next one in line.Trinity, we’re rooting for you! And to Taraji & Phylicia—y’all are the definition of Black Girl Magic.