The award also includes publication in UMKC's student literary journal, Number One . The deadline for application for this award is March 18, or the nearest University workday following that date. The Mbembe Fund was established to assist African-American students at UMKC who demonstrate talent in creative writing. Recipients must be enrolled on a full-time basis, and have maintained a grade point average of 3.0 in high school or 2.5 in college. The Black Scholarship Committee decides on the amount of each award.
Scholarships are renewable by re-application for a maximum of four years.
Students may enter both categories. Previous first-place winners in any category are ineligible in that category. The student's name must not appear anywhere on the manuscript. Entries will not be returned unless accompanied by a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Winners will be announced April 15.