January 24, 2017 our club suffered the loss of a very dear friend and faithful member. After a long, hard fought battle with Scleroderma,Chanell is finally at rest. We wish to honor Chanell E. Gatewood’s memory by creating a scholarship fund in her name. This scholarship will go towards providing much needed educational resources for children facing hardship from health, economic, and environmental challenges. Please donate what you can in honor of a true Rotarian; who lived a life dedicated to the motto, “Service Above Self”.
Chanell Elestine Gatewood was smart, articulate and always eager to learn more. This drive and thirst for knowledge led her to become the high achiever that she was. Chanell attended the Baldwin School of New York, where upon graduation, earned the Alumni Award.
After leaving Baldwin she attended Coppin State University in Baltimore Maryland, receiving her Bachelor Degree in Criminal Justice. Upon returning to New York she gainfully sought employment with New York State Department of Probation Rikers Island Division. While working with the Department of Corrections for over two decades she grew a family bond with the organization.
Chanel was a pillar of her community and many active organizations. To name a few: Rotary Club of Harlem, National Council of Negro Women, Danny D. Farrell Jr. Democratic Club New York City, New York City Board of Elections (Poll Worker), Probation Officers Guardians, New York City Representative of New York State Probation Officers Association.
In 2006 Chanell’s health began to decline. After rigorous testing she was diagnosed with Scleroderma, an auto-immune disease. Chanell took on the illness like the champion she was, becoming the organization’s co-support group leader.
Chanell has been an inspiration to many and will continue to inspire a new generation of leaders with your donation. Please help us to make a difference in the lives of our youth and honor Chanell’s legacy. Make your donation today.
Please contact us at [email protected] for more information or click here for access to scholarship applications. Candidates will be asked to complete the necessary forms and return to us by the proposed deadline. There will be an interview conducted by the scholarship committee and community service work will be a requirement for eligibility.