Memphis-born rap star GloRilla made a surprise return to her alma mater, surprising the students at Melrose High School with both her presence and a generous donation. According to a report by Action News 5, the "Yeah Glo" rapper presented a $25,000 check to her former high school during what seemed to be a regular pep rally event.
Unbeknownst to the roughly 800 students who were in attendance to celebrate their football team’s second-place finish, the gymnasium erupted into a crescendo of cheers as GloRilla entered. She reminisced with Action News 5, saying "Like I remember taking them tests on their computers! I don’t know it just bring back, it’s a nostalgic feeling like I can’t believe I’m this old now!" The school also announced that its library would be renamed The Gloria H. Woods Media Center in her honor.
Highlighting the allocation of funds, Melrose High Principal Kristopher Davis shared with GloRilla in a letter, reported by Fox13 Memphis, how her contribution would be used. The breakdown included purchasing new learning software, creating study and research spaces, establishing the GloRilla Mentorship Program, and supporting the Melrose Clothes Closet among others. As per the letter, Glo Bucks will also be introduced as student incentives for academic achievement and positive behavior.
The rap star's visit comes at the end of a distinguished year for the artist, highlighted by two Grammy nominations, topping Billboard's Hottest Female Rapper list and earning a spot as one of the Associated Press' Breakout Entertainers. This gesture of giving back to the community, as covered by The Commercial Appeal.
Connecting with the students on a personal level, GloRilla shared, "Whatever you want to do, go for it. Have faith, manifest and go for it,” as conveyed by Fox13 Memphis. She will continue to support educational institutions in Memphis, including Westside Middle School and MLK Prep Academy.
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