MLK Hope Scholarship

The MLK Hope Scholarship, established in honor of Willie Mae Veazie Stephens, offers students aging out of foster care the chance to receive financial support for college school supplies and other living expenses. The Hope Scholarship Contest is open to 2026 high school graduates in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex who will be enrolled in college for the Fall 2026 term.

The winner of the scholarship will receive funding over the course of four years, if the student maintains a minimum 3.0 GPA

Applications are due Saturday, December 27, 2025.

Hope Scholarship

Student Contact Information

First name

Last name

Address (Street, City, State, Zip)

Phone

I certify that I am a United States Citizen or permanent resident of the United States of America

Parent/Guardian Contact Information

Parent/Guardian First name

Parent/Guardian Last name

Parent/Guardian Phone

Parent/Guardian Alternate Phone

Parent/Guardian Email

Relationship

Student Background

Current High School

Location (City) of High School

Grade Point Average (On a 4.0 scale)

List your academic honors, awards, and membership activities

List your community services activities, hobbies, outside interest, and extracurricular activities

College/university attending in the Fall of 2026 (Note: Proof of acceptance or current student enrollment is required prior to receipt of funds)

What major will you pursue? And Why?

I hereby affirm that all of the above stated information provided by me is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I also consent that my picture may be taken and used for any purpose deemed necessary to promote the 2026 Dr. MLK scholarship program.l hereby understand that if chosen as a scholarship winner, according to Pioneering Excellence scholarship guidelines, I must provide evidence of graduation with a valid High School Diploma and proof of enrollment/acceptance at an accredited, post-secondary institution before my scholarship funds can be awarded.

Signature of scholarship applicant

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Scholarship Submission

Theme: "Our Village"

Essay Submission

Essay prompt: Dr. King famously spoke of a vision rooted in dignity, equality, and opportunity. Share your personal vision for your future and the impact you hope to make. How has your experience in foster care shaped your goals, values, or dreams?

Please upload your essay, 750–1,250 words in length. In addition to the required prompt, each essay MUST include 3-5 Sentences about why winning this specific contest is important to you.