Startups

Actor Jesse Williams joins Scholly as Chief Brand Ambassador

The Grey's Anatomy star is the latest celeb to show some love for the Philly startup.

Williams, a Temple grad who taught in Philly public schools, is no stranger to the need for scholarships. (Courtesy photo)

Though you may know actor/activist Jesse Williams as Dr. Jackson Avery from Grey’s Anatomy — April Kepner’s ex-husband, duh — you will also know him from now on as a spokesperson for Philly-based scholarship-guidance app Scholly.
“I’m proud to announce that I’m joining the Scholly team in our mutual pursuit to help more young Americans pay for college,” said Williams, “There is no substitute for equal access — there is no substitute for a quality education.”


According to the Temple University grad — who also has ties to the tech scene by way of his own startup, Ebroji — the link made sense because of how he struggled to get through the financial challenge that college represents for thousands of Americans.
After he graduated, Williams became a high school teacher where he was again exposed to the limitations students face without a clear way to put themselves through college.
Details of Williams’ partnership with the company were not disclosed, but it was announced that he’ll join the company’s advisory board. Also, Yahoo! Finance reports the actor will receive come equity in the company.
Celebs have been all over the Philly-based company ever since that notorious Shark Tank appearance. Just last month, founder Christopher Gray was tapped for Oprah Winfrey’s SuperSoul 100 list, and last year the company landed $100,000 from Steve Case’s Rise of the Rest pitch competition.

Companies: Scholly
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