The Martin Luther King Scholar Program | Academics

MLK Scholar Program

A Community of Scholars | The Power to Influence Change

MLK Scholars listening to a tour guide standing outside infront of a colorful mural of the edmund pettus bridge in Alabama

The time has always been "now"

"The time is always right to do what is right."- The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (1968. 'Remaining Awake Through a Great Revolution.')

Welcome to the MLK Scholar Program at Ithaca College!

In 2002, Dr. Tanya Saunders and Dr. Roger Richardson established this opportunity for our campus community, centering the experiences of prospective PoC students looking to access higher education and further their academic excellence.

Through the lens of social justice and service, the principles of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. were called upon as a philosophy for leadership and civic engagement. Additionally, students would be introduced to research with experiential learning opportunities (domestic and international travel) to aid their studies and personal development.

Over a 4-year experience, MLK Scholars study civil and human rights, develop case studies in global justice under the leadership of esteemed faculty, and are challenged & supported to develop their reach and impact in the Tompkins County community.

These 60 students represent a wide range of human diversity as people of color from various geographic locations, ethnicities, values, skills, majors, and focus areas in social justice.

If you are a prospective Ithaca College student with demonstrated leadership, service in your local community, and have a life-long commitment to social justice, we look forward to connecting with you, soon.

By the Numbers

Graphic design text reading "250000 dollar scholarship plus need based aid"

Financial Scholarship

Each MLK Scholar receives a $25,000.00 scholarship and may be eligible for additional need-based aid.

Questions About Financial Aid?

graphic design reading "60 total students over 4 year experience"

Our Community

We are a 4-year program able to support 60 students.

Meet Our MLK Scholars

Graphic design reading "3.3. GPA. 100% of MLK Scholars graduate with a 3.3. gpa or higher"

Academically Driven

MLK Scholars are asked to maintain a 3.3. cumulative GPA to remain in good standing and secure their scholarship each semester.

Learn More About Academics at IC

Our Mission

The Martin Luther King Scholar Program prepares academically talented, historically under-represented undergraduate students of color for the development of knowledge, skills, and ethical values by engaging them in meaningful learning opportunities that foster social justice service, leadership development, and global citizenship.

Our Vision

The Martin Luther King Scholar Program facilitates the students' pursuit of academic and personal success within a challenging developmental experience by fostering scholarly excellence, social justice service, leadership development, and global citizenship.