New York Life Undergraduate Scholarships for Emerging African-American Issues emphasize the study and understanding of African-American perspectives on a broad set of public problems and policy issues. The scholarships support students from populations underrepresented among policymakers, including African-American students. Scholars participate in the Colin Powell Program in Leadership and Public Service, a two-year multifaceted program that includes specialized workshops, instruction, leadership development.

New York Life Undergraduate Scholars receive $10,000 in support for each of two years. The scholarships also provide a stipend to support scholars who participate in a summer internship.