Privacy Policy

Effective Date: January 1, 2024 

Black Scholar Academy™ is committed to protecting the privacy and security of everyone who visits our website or engages with our programs. This Privacy Statement explains what information we collect, how we use it, and the choices you have regarding your data.

We designed this policy with the same values that guide our work—integrity, transparency, and respect for every community member we serve.

1. Information We Collect

We collect two types of information:

A. Information You Provide Voluntarily

Examples include:

• Application submissions
   
• Contact forms
   
• Sponsorship inquiries
   
• Newsletter sign-ups
   
• Event registrations
   
• Donation or payment information
   

This may include your name, email address, phone number, academic information, or other details relevant to your engagement with our programs.

B. Information Collected Automatically

Like most websites, our site may automatically collect:

• IP address
   
• Browser type
   
• Device type
   
• General location information (non-identifiable)
   
• Website usage and traffic patterns
   

This helps us improve the website experience and understand how visitors engage with our content.

2. How We Use Your Information

Your information is used only for mission-aligned purposes, including:

• Reviewing applications for Black Scholar Academy™ programs
   
• Responding to inquiries and communication requests
   
• Processing donations or sponsorships
   
• Sending program updates, newsletters, or announcements
   
• Improving website performance and optimizing user experience
   
• Evaluating program outcomes in aggregate form
   

We do not sell, rent, or share your personal information with third parties for marketing or commercial purposes.

3. Protecting Student and Applicant Information

For students and applicants, we follow privacy standards consistent with the spirit of FERPA. This means:

• Your application data is confidential and used only by authorized staff
   
• Any data used for reporting or fundraising is anonymized
   
• Sensitive information is stored securely
   
• Supporting documents (résumés, portfolios, etc.) are treated with strict confidentiality
   

4. Donations, Sponsorships & Financial Information

When making a donation or sponsoring a scholar:

• Payment information is processed only through secure, third-party platforms
   
• Black Scholar Academy™ does not store full credit card numbers
   
• Donor information is used for tax receipts, acknowledgment, and ongoing communication (unless you opt out)
   

5. Cookies & Web Analytics

Our website may use cookies or analytics tools to:

• Understand site traffic
   
• Improve functionality
   
• Personalize content
   

You may disable cookies in your browser at any time.

6. Your Choices & Rights

You may:

• Request access to the personal information we have about you
   
• Update or correct your information
   
• Opt out of emails or newsletters
   
• Request deletion of certain types of information (where applicable)
   

To make any request, email us at admin@blackscholaracademy.org.

7. Links to External Sites

Our website may contain links to third-party sites (e.g., application portals, donation platforms). We are not responsible for their content or privacy practices.

8. Updates to This Policy

This statement may be updated periodically to reflect new practices or legal requirements. All updates will be posted on this page with a revised date.

9. Contact Us

If you have questions about this Privacy Statement or how your information is used, please contact: Black Scholar Academy™

Email: admin@blackscholaracademy.org