In a groundbreaking move that merges athletics with academics, Serena Williams’ longtime manager, Eric Johnson, announced today the launch of a transformative nationwide initiative called “Books Before Buckets.”The program will offer full scholarships and one-on-one academic Mentorships to underprivileged students across the United States, with a focus on empowering youth through education before sports.
Speaking at a press conference held at the Williams Sisters Youth Foundation in Los Angeles, Johnson emphasized the mission behind the initiative: “We believe that before kids aim for the court, they deserve the opportunity to thrive in the classroom. ‘Books Before Buckets’ is not just a slogan — it’s a call to action.”
The initiative is set to begin this fall in 10 major U.S. cities, including Atlanta, Chicago, Detroit, New York City, and Oakland, with plans to expand nationwide by 2026. Each selected student will receive:
* A full academic scholarship covering tuition, books, and school supplies
* Access to weekly academic mentorship with certified educators and career advisors
* Opportunities for college preparation, including SAT/ACT tutoring and college tours
* Wellness support including mental health counseling and nutritional guidance
Serena Williams, who has been a longtime advocate for education and youth empowerment, shared her thoughts via social media shortly after the announcement:
> “Education changed my life in ways that sports never could. I’m proud to support a program that puts learning first.”
The initiative is being funded by a mix of private donations, corporate sponsorships, and contributions from the Serena Williams Fund. Early supporters include Nike, JPMorgan Chase, and the LeBron James Family Foundation, which has expressed interest in collaborating on future expansions.
Applications for the first cohort of students will open on August 1st via the official Books Before Buckets website.
