The Scholastica Foundation

The Scholastica Foundation was created by Dedra Tufon Bauer in loving memory of her paternal grandmother, Scholastica Messi Ngong.

As a first-generation Cameroonian American, Dedra remains deeply connected to her family’s heritage and credits her grandmother with many of the gifts, values, and strengths that have contributed to her success. Through this foundation, Dedra seeks to honor Scholastica’s life by extending her legacy to the next generation.

The Scholastica Foundation collects school supplies, books, and other educational materials for schools and orphanages in Cameroon. 

Dedra and her family are preparing for two upcoming trips to Cameroon—one in December and another in March—and have already begun collecting materials to distribute during these visits.

Every donation, no matter the size, helps provide a child with the tools and opportunities they need to learn, grow, and dream.

To contribute physical school supplies or educational materials, please email scholasticafdn@gmail.com to receive the appropriate mailing address. Monetary donations may be made through the PayPal link below.

Thank you for your time, your generosity, and for helping us honor the beautiful legacy of Scholastica Messi Ngong.

Dedra Bauer is the author of Beauty in Body Diversity, a powerful and heartfelt book that challenges societal standards and celebrates the uniqueness of every body. Rooted in her own experiences with disordered eating and recovery, the book highlights the importance of representation, resilience, and radical self-love—particularly within BIPOC communities. Through vulnerable storytelling and empowering insights, Dedra encourages readers to redefine beauty on their own terms and to honor their bodies as they are.

In recognition of her impactful advocacy, Dedra was named an official collaborator with the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), a milestone that underscores her commitment to awareness, education, and systemic change. In 2025, she was invited as an honored guest to the NEDA Gala in New York City, where she stood alongside other changemakers in the fight for eating disorder prevention and recovery. Her presence at the event, both as a survivor and a leader, represents a growing movement to uplift voices historically excluded from the conversation—and to affirm that healing belongs to everyone.