Tallahassee, Florida- July 10, 2012

Lincoln High School student, Travia J. Gallon, is one of 50 worldwide applicants chosen to attend the 2012 BLACK GIRLS ROCK! leadership camp in New York from July 21 – August 4. Gallon was selected for her exceptional academic achievement, strong leadership qualities, cultural awareness and an understanding of the importance of sisterhood and service.

BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Inc. is a non-profit youth empowerment and mentoring organization that promotes the arts for young women of color and encourages dialogue of the ways women of color are portrayed in the media. BLACK GIRLS ROCK! founder Beverly Bond, partnered with BET television network in 2011 for the BLACK GIRLS ROCK! Awards. Shirley Caesar, Angela Davis and Taraji P. Hinson were among women recognized for leadership, philanthropy, the arts and social change.

Gallon’s application consisted of a six page response to three essays, including 500 words on “Why I Rock,” along with two letters of recommendation, official high school transcripts and a video blog.

In addition to her recognition by BLACK GIRLS ROCK!, the rising sophomore was also recognized as student of the week by Blazin’ 102.3 FM and selected for the “Ladies Learning to Lead” retreat for girls in April.

Gallon is the daughter of Jessica N. Jackson and Travis and Tasha Gallon. She is a youth choir member and Sunday School secretary at Mt. Zion Primitive Baptist Church. Gallon writes and produces her own songs, which she has shared during open mic night at Black on Black Rhyme. Gallon also plays electric and acoustic guitar and is currently learning to play the keyboard and drums. Her music is currently available for listening at www.mercyjmusic.weebly.com or Mercy Jaye on YouTube .

For more information about BLACK GIRLS ROCK! visit blackgirlsrockinc.com