History of the Fort Meade MLK Scholarship Committee

Founded in 1982, the Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship Committee is dedicated to empowering high school African-American residence in Fort Meade through education and opportunity. Inspired by the vision of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., our organization strives to aid those in need while fostering a sense of community and support. At the helm of our committee is Dora Johnson, a remarkable woman who, despite facing significant personal adversity—being orphaned at 12 and a high school dropout by 17—has devoted her life to uplifting others. Through her unwavering commitment and faith, she has inspired countless students to pursue their dreams and reach their full potential. Since our inception, we've provided scholarships to numerous African-American students, helping them gain access to a higher education. Our scholarship awards, which range from $250 to $1,000, are crucial for many students from single-parent households, easing the financial burden of college expenses. Our mission goes beyond financial assistance; we aim to instill resilience and hope in the youth of Fort Meade. Each year, we conduct a thorough review of applications from eligible students, ensuring that those who demonstrate need and academic dedication receive our support. Funded primarily through donations and local events, such as our annual observance  service honoring Dr. King and our February parade celebrating Black History Month, we remain committed to our goal of raising essential funds for scholarship awards. We believe in the power of education and community, and we are proud to play a part in the success stories of our scholarship recipients. Together, we continue to make strides in supporting the youth of Fort Meade, fostering a brighter future for all.