Philadelphia Scholarship Honors a Cristo Rey Alumnus

Published on July 7, 2025
Amid Philadelphia’s struggles with poverty, unemployment, and rising gun violence during the pandemic, the Cristo Rey Philadelphia community mourned the loss of alumnus Shyheem Omar Robinson ’17, who was tragically killed in 2020. Remembered for his charisma, creativity, and leadership, Shyheem’s legacy lives on through the Shyheem Robinson Legacy Scholarship, founded by fellow alumnus Rishaun Hall ’16. The $4,000 scholarship honors Shyheem’s memory by supporting Cristo Rey graduates who exemplify his spirit in academics, athletics, and service. Since its inception, it has raised over $12,000 and supported three student-athletes pursuing higher education and leadership. The scholarship stands as a tribute to Shyheem and a message of hope—that young lives lost to violence will not be forgotten, and that Cristo Rey students continue to build, uplift, and inspire their communities.