HOUSTON, TX – (November 13, 2025) – The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation (MCSF) presented long-time supporter Karen Kelly with the Semper Fidelis Award during its 15th annual Houston Awards Dinner, held on Thursday November 13th at The Post Oak Hotel.

Karen Kelly has been a lifelong supporter of the United States Marine Corps as a daughter, wife, and mother, and has been instrumental in supporting the mission of the MCSF as a fundraiser and Advisory Council member. The Scholarship Foundation’s Semper Fidelis Award recognizes individuals whose service to our Nation exemplifies the Marine Corps motto to remain “Always Faithful.” Former Texas recipients include President George W. Bush, Governor Rick Perry, Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison, and Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale. She was introduced by General Robert B. Neller, USMC (Ret.) 37th Commandant of the Marine Corps. Gen. Neller asked all Marines to stand and sing the first chorus of the “Marines’ Hymn” before he spoke in tribute of Mrs. Kelly, referring to her as a “Spartan Woman”.

Over 400 guests filled the Grand Ballroom of The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown to support the country’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships to military children. Guests mingled during the general reception before entering the ballroom for the seated dinner. The program was managed by emcee Sergeant Major Micheal Barrett USMC (Ret.) and included remarks from Military Guest of Honor Lieutenant General David J. Furness USMC (Ret.). MCSF President and CEO Lieutenant Colonel Ted Probert USMC (Ret.) praised the philanthropic spirit of the Houston community and reported on the academic achievements of the MCSF’s scholarship recipients.

A special presentation was made in memory of Chuck Scianna, Houston businessman and former MCSF Board Member. The touching tribute was led by General John Kelly USMC (Ret.), 5th Secretary of Homeland Security and Former Commander, US Southern Command, along with Mr. Scianna’s close friend Joseph Quinlan.

The final fundraising tally for the evening was an impressive $1,850,000, including $270,000 from the “Fund A Future” Paddle Raise. Proceeds from the dinner helps support 291 scholarship recipients in Texas who attend 65 different in-state colleges, universities and career technical education programs.  Lone Star State Campaign Co-Chairs Jessica and Ken Neikirk were thrilled with the outcome.

About The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation: Established in 1962, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is the Nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children. Since its inception, the Scholarship Foundation has provided over 57,000 scholarships valued at more than $235 million to the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen.

For more information on the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, please visit http://www.mcsf.org/

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A career infantry officer, LtGen Smith brings nearly four decades of Marine Corps service to his new role. Most recently, he served as the commanding general of I Marine Expeditionary Force (I MEF), the Marine Corps’ largest Marine Air-Ground Task Force.

“It’s a privilege to continue serving the Marine Corps community through the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation,” said LtGen George Smith Jr., USMC (Ret.). “The Scholarship Foundation’s mission to honor Marines by educating their children embodies the very best of our values. I look forward to working with this dedicated team to advance that mission.”

As chairman of the board, LtGen Smith will provide strategic leadership to ensure the organization fulfills its mission, partnering closely with the President and CEO to guide organizational priorities, oversee performance, and advance key strategic initiatives. LtGen Smith will also serve as a leading ambassador for the Scholarship Foundation, fostering strong relationships with donors, Marine Corps leadership, and community partners to strengthen support for the Foundation’s enduring mission.

Over his career, LtGen Smith has commanded at every level from platoon to Marine Expeditionary Force and held key leadership positions including commanding officer of 1st Force Reconnaissance Company, commanding officer of The Basic School in Quantico, deputy commander of Regional Command Southwest in Afghanistan, and deputy commandant for Plans, Policies, and Operations at Headquarters Marine Corps.

His extensive assignments also include service as the senior military assistant to the secretary of defense and director of strategy, plans, and policy for U.S. Central Command. LtGen Smith is a graduate of the Marine Corps War College and the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School. His commands have been recognized with the Presidential Unit Citation, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Navy Unit Commendation and Meritorious Unit Commendation.

General Neller, who served as the 37th commandant of the Marine Corps prior to his retirement in 2019, has guided MCSF’s board with distinction during his time as chairman. Under his leadership, the organization has expanded its reach and impact, ensuring that more children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen have access to educational opportunities.

“We are deeply grateful to General Neller for his years of dedicated service and leadership,” said Ted Probert, Lieutenant Colonel USMC (Ret.) and current President and CEO of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. “We are equally honored to welcome Lieutenant General Smith as chairman. His commitment to Marines and their families will help propel our mission forward.”

Since its founding in 1962, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation has awarded more than 55,000 scholarships valued at over $200 million to the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen. Each scholarship honors the service and sacrifice of Marines by investing in the education and future of their sons and daughters. This year alone, MCSF awarded 2,886 scholarships totaling more than $12 million to students nationwide pursuing college degrees and career or technical education.

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About The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation:  

Established in 1962, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is the Nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children. Since its inception, the Scholarship Foundation has provided over 55,000 scholarships valued at more than $200 million to the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen. Recipients are from all 50 states, in addition to 18 overseas bases and U.S. territories. The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation has earned an Accredited Charity rating from the Better Business Bureau, 4/4 stars from Charity Navigator, and GuideStar’s Platinum Seal of Transparency. For more information on the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, please visit https://www.mcsf.org/ 

CONTACTS:        Mike Twiname | Maroon PR | 667-678-0426 | Mike@MaroonPR.com  

Emma Hottel | Maroon PR | 410-739-8242 | EmmaH@MaroonPR.com  

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WASHINGTON (Gray DC) – A record number of scholarships were awarded to the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen last week during the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation’s annual ceremony.

The nonprofit group awarded over $12 million on July 28 to nearly 2,900 students who are pursuing a college degree or career technical education.

The group has been helping students pay for their education for over 60 years.

“Folks will say, ‘Well, thank you for your service.’ The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is about seeing how that thank you manifests itself in bona fide gratitude to Marines,” said Odie Van Opdorp, the COO of the foundation.

Some of the scholarship recipients were honored during a ceremony at the Marine Barracks in Washington.

“So, I’ve received it since I was a freshman, and it means a lot to me,” said Simona Richard, a rising senior at Howard University. “It’s been very life changing, I guess you could say.”

Both Richard and her father, Sergeant Major Jimmy F. Richard Jr., spoke during the ceremony to thank everyone who makes the scholarships possible.

“We know that service is what we do,” said Sergeant Richard. “We make a lot of sacrifices. Our children make sacrifices. And, it’s very special to know that there’s a foundation that’s willing to serve us, after all the service and sacrifice that many of us have given.”

The ceremony also conceited with the ongoing celebration of the United States Marines Corps 250th anniversary.

“For as long as the United States of America has been around, Marines have been serving in one capacity or another. And I think that that’s really historic. And the opportunity for just why what we do is so important,” said Ted Probert, CEO of the foundation.

The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is the nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships to military children.

By Stetson Miller

Copyright 2025 Gray DC. All rights reserved.

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The biennial Scholarship Announcement Ceremony included a student processional, remarks from military leaders and scholarship recipients, and the formal announcement of the number of scholarships and total funds awarded for the 2025–2026 academic year. This year, MCSF awarded 2,886 scholarships totaling $12,098,500 to students across the country pursuing post-secondary or career technical education.

In total, the 2025-2026 class of scholarship recipients represent more than 31,000 years of military service and reflect many generations of Marine Corps service. The oldest recipient was born in 1966 and their military parent served in the Vietnam War, while the youngest recipient was born in 2009, and their military parent served in the Global War on Terror. Several recipients are descendants of Marines whose service dates back to World War II, including several grandchildren of Navajo Code Talkers.

The program was emceed by Sergeant Major Micheal P. Barrett, USMC (Ret.), Director of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. Remarks were delivered by Ted Probert, President and CEO of MCSF; Sergeant Major Jimmy F. Richard Jr., USMC, Sergeant Major of Marine Barracks Washington; and Simona Richard, a 2025–2026 Marine Scholar and senior at Howard University, who served as the evening’s student speaker.

“Each scholarship we award reflects our commitment to the Marine Corps community and to the future of the next generation,” said Ted Probert, Lieutenant Colonel USMC (Ret.) and current President and CEO of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. “As we recognize the 250th anniversary of the Marine Corps this year, it is especially meaningful to stand alongside these remarkable students and their families. Their stories of resilience, leadership, and service remind us why this mission matters.”

The ceremony also welcomed Sergeant Major Justin LeHew, USMC (Ret.), as Military Guest of Honor. A highly decorated combat veteran, Sergeant Major LeHew was awarded the Navy Cross for his heroism during the 2003 invasion of Iraq. He was hand-selected to lead the rescue and recovery of the U.S. Army’s 507th Maintenance Company and the high-profile rescue of Private Jessica Lynch. He also received the Bronze Star with Combat Valor Distinction for his courageous actions during the Battle of Najaf. His remarks served as a powerful reminder of the courage, sacrifice and leadership at the heart of the Marine Corps.

The ceremony, held in Washington, D.C., coincided with the ongoing celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States Marine Corps. Approximately 50 Marine Scholars and their military parents participated in the evening event, many dressed in formal military Service uniforms.

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“My Cause, My Cleats” is a platform for NFL players to show their support for causes closest to them. The campaign, celebrated league-wide, allows players to raise awareness and funds for their selected nonprofits.

“When I heard about the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation and their mission to support military families, I knew this was a cause I wanted to stand behind,” said Baltimore Ravens’ Long Snapper Nick Moore. “These cleats are more than just part of the game—they’re a tribute to the sacrifices made by Marines and a symbol of the opportunities we can help create for their children. I’m proud to use My Cause, My Cleats to bring attention to this incredible organization and the life-changing work they do.”

The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation helps cover the cost of attending post-high school, undergraduate, and career and technical education programs. Founded in 1962, and now the nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation has awarded more than 60,000 scholarships valued at over $200 million.

After the game, Moore’s cleats will be auctioned off through NFL Auction, with 100% of the proceeds going directly to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. Fans can bid on Moore’s game-issued cleats and support the educational dreams of Marine families by visiting www.nfl.com/causes/my-cause-my-cleats/ 

See photos of the MCSF cleats HERE

“We are incredibly honored that Nick Moore has chosen to represent the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation during this year’s ‘My Cause, My Cleats’ campaign,” said LtCol Ted Probert USMC (Ret.), President and CEO of the Scholarship Foundation. “By wearing these cleats, Nick is not only showcasing his dedication to military families but also shining a light on the importance of education for the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen. His support directly ties in with our mission of ensuring no Marine family is left behind. We’re proud to have Nick as part of our community and grateful for his commitment to our nation’s servicemembers and their families.”

Learn more about the partnership between the Ravens and the Scholarship Foundation here.

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About the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation

Established in 1962, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is the Nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children. Since its inception, the Scholarship Foundation has provided approximately 60,000 renewable scholarships valued at over $200 million to the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen. For more information on the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, please visit www.mcsf.org.

CONTACT:         

Rocco DiSangro | Maroon PR | 267-697-2224 | Rocco@MaroonPR.com 

Emma Hottel | Maroon PR | 410-739-8242 | EmmaH@MaroonPR.com    

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HOUSTON, TX – (November 14, 2024) – The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation (MCSF) presented local investor Ed deZevallos with the Semper Fidelis Award during its 14th annual Houston Awards Dinner, held on Thursday November 14th at The Post Oak Hotel.

Over 350 guests filled the Grand Ballroom of The Post Oak Hotel at Uptown to support the country’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships to military children. Guests mingled during the general reception, enjoying cocktails and passed appetizers before entering the ballroom for the seated dinner. The program was deftly handled by emcee Sergeant Major Micheal Barrett USMC (Ret.) and included remarks from Military Guest of Honor Major General Austin “Sparky” Renforth USMC (Ret.), and MCSF President and CEO Lieutenant Colonel Ted Probert USMC (Ret.)

Often awarded to veteran Marines, The Scholarship Foundation’s Semper Fidelis Award recognizes individuals whose service to our Nation exemplifies the Marine Corps motto to remain “Always Faithful.” Former Texas recipients include President George W. Bush, Governor Rick Perry, Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale, Ann Fox, veteran Marine and President & CEO of Nine Energy Service, and Donovan Campbell, veteran Marine and bestselling author of Joker One and The Leader’s Code.

Ed deZevallos is a veteran Marine, real estate executive, and serial entrepreneur. Mr. deZevallos attended Vanderbilt University, received his MBA from Washington University and enlisted in the Marines in 1967. Mr. deZevallos has been involved in the real estate development business since 1973, primarily in the Houston area in a 50 year career that included projects in five southern states. He was also a founder and Chairman of Spring National Bank that was eventually sold to PNC Bank. Mr. deZevallos, along with his wife Pam, has supported a variety of local charitable organizations. He also made the jump to the big screen, co-writing and producing the 2019 film “Lone Star Deception” starring Anthony Ray Parker and Eric Roberts.

The final fundraising tally for the evening was an impressive $1,056,115. Funding from the dinner helps support 297 scholarship recipients in Texas who attend 65 different in-state colleges, universities and career technical education programs.  Lone Star State Campaign Co-Chairs John Deis and Alison Vasquez were thrilled with the outcome of the evening.

About The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation: Established in 1962, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is the Nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children. Since its inception, the Scholarship Foundation has provided over 55,000 scholarships valued at more than $220 million to the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen. For more information on the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, please visit  http://www.mcsf.org/

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Alexandria, Va. (October 29, 2024) – The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation (MCSF) and Medal of Honor recipient Dakota Meyer today announced the establishment of the “If You Can, You Must” Scholarship. Meyer is aiming to inspire future leaders of America by providing educational scholarships to the children of Marines. Meyer, a United States Marine Corps veteran, has set a goal to raise $2 million for MCSF to provide children of Marines educational scholarships. 

“It is extremely important to me that we invest in the families of those that have served our country, and the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation clearly shares this belief,” said Meyer. “It is critical to encourage students to take ownership of their lives and do all they can to strengthen our country.” 

Meyer enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2006 and by 2007, became one of the Marine Corps’ youngest school-trained snipers. Meyer deployed twice to combat, with his first tour of duty to Iraq in 2007. In 2009, during his deployment to Afghanistan, Meyer repeatedly crossed an active combat zone, risking his life to rescue fellow soldiers and recover the bodies of fallen U.S. service members. For his heroic efforts, Meyer became the first living Marine in more than 40 years to receive the Medal of Honor, which was presented to him in 2011. Since leaving the military, Meyer has remained committed to serving others, through his work as a firefighter and Emergency Medical Technician. In addition, Meyer has taken on a career as an entrepreneur behind his brand Own the Dash and his drink Dash Hydrate. 

A highly sought after keynote speaker, Meyer is also the author of two New York Times bestselling books. His third book “Why to What” is set to release November 12th, one day after Veterans Day. Meyer’s hope is that “Why to What” empowers readers to take command of their lives, live more consciously and intentionally, and create a dash that they are proud to own. 

The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation helps cover the cost of attending post-high school, undergraduate, and career and technical education programs. Founded in 1962, and now the nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation has awarded more than 60,000 scholarships valued at over $200 million. 

“Dakota is an outstanding example of the spirit of service and sacrifice Marines are most known for,” said Ted Probert, Lieutenant Colonel USMC (Ret.) and current President and CEO of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. “We are extremely proud and appreciative that he is working with the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation to help us continue to make a life changing impact on the children of Marines.” 

MCSF awards about 2,800 scholarships annually but estimates there are more than 20,000 eligible children of Marines nationwide. With the help of supporters like Meyer and the “If You Can, You Must” Scholarship, MCSF will continue to expand their ability to provide support to the children of Marines and ensure that no Marine family is left behind. 

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About The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation:  

Established in 1962, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is the Nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children. Since its inception, the Scholarship Foundation has provided approximately 60,000 renewable scholarships valued at over $200 million to the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen. For more information on the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, please visit www.mcsf.org. 

CONTACT:            

Rocco DiSangro | Maroon PR | 267-697-2224 | Rocco@MaroonPR.com  

Emma Hottel | Maroon PR | 410-739-8242 | EmmaH@MaroonPR.com   

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ALEXANDRIA, Va. (Sept. 24, 2024) – The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation (MCSF) today announced a donation of $500,000 from retired Navy Admiral William McRaven. The contribution is part of the 2024 Bezos Courage and Civility Award presented by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez to Admiral McRaven and actress Eva Longoria, who each received $50 million to distribute to charities of their choice.  

Admiral McRaven, renowned for his pivotal role in the 2011 operation that led to the death of Osama bin Laden and his leadership in the rescue of Captain Richard Phillips from Somali pirates, has directed $500,000 of his grant to support MCSF’s mission to Honor Marines by Educating Their Children. The donation will specifically bolster MCSF’s efforts to provide scholarships to children of the fallen, a key focus of Admiral McRaven’s work.

“It is a privilege to support the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, an organization that has dedicated itself to honoring service and sacrifice by investing in the futures of military children, especially the children of our fallen” said retired Navy Admiral William McRaven. “The courage and resilience shown by these families inspires us all, and I am proud to contribute to a mission that honors their sacrifice and strengthens their future.”

William McRaven’s distinguished career includes commanding at every level within the special operations community. His notable roles include Deputy Commanding General for Operations at JSOC, Commodore of Naval Special Warfare Group One, and SEAL Team Three Commander, among others. He also served as Chancellor of the University of Texas System and is known for his extensive contributions to military-focused organizations. 

Founded in 1962, and now the nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation has awarded more than 60,000 scholarships valued at over $200 million. Admiral McRaven’s gift is a testament to his support of military families and will enhance MCSF’s ability to increase the number of scholarships awarded annually to children of Marines. 

“We are deeply honored to receive Admiral McRaven’s generous contribution,” said Ted Probert, Lieutenant Colonel USMC (Ret.) and current President and CEO of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation.  “His commitment to our nation’s military families exemplifies the spirit of service and sacrifice. Admiral McRaven’s contribution not only furthers our mission but also reaffirms the profound impact of investing in the future of our military families, particularly those of our fallen.” 

The MCSF awards about 2,800 scholarships annually but estimates there are more than 20,000 eligible children of Marines nationwide. The sizeable gift from McRaven will enable MCSF to increase the number of scholarships awarded annually and accelerate their long-term efforts to provide support to all eligible children of Marines.  

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About The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation:  

Established in 1962, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is the Nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children. Since its inception, the Scholarship Foundation has provided approximately 60,000 renewable scholarships valued at over $200 million to the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen. For more information on the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, please visit www.mcsf.org. 

CONTACT:           

Rocco DiSangro | Maroon PR | 267-697-2224 | Rocco@MaroonPR.com 

Emma Hottel | Maroon PR | 410-739-8242 | EmmaH@MaroonPR.com  

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The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, the nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships to military children, honors the service and sacrifice of Marines and Navy Corpsmen by providing educational scholarships to their children. These awards are available for post-high school, undergraduate, two-year, and career and technical education programs.

“We are profoundly grateful for the Ravens’ support,” said Ted Probert, Lieutenant Colonel USMC (Ret.) and current president and CEO of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. “Their donation will impact the lives of many deserving students from Maryland, helping them to achieve their academic and career aspirations.”

The partnership includes MCSF being the featured military nonprofit during November’s Salute to Service Month activities. MCSF is dedicated to ensuring that every eligible child of a Marine receives the support they need, estimating there are more than 20,000 eligible children nationwide.

Founded in 1962, MCSF is the nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children. Since its inception, it has awarded nearly 60,000 renewable scholarships valued at over $200 million.

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About The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation: 

Established in 1962, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is the Nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children. Since its inception, the Scholarship Foundation has provided approximately 60,000 renewable scholarships valued at over $200 million to the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen. For more information on the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, please visit www.mcsf.org.

CONTACT:           

Eric Hammond | Maroon PR | 443-614-9456 | Eric@MaroonPR.com 

Emma Hottel | Maroon PR | 410-739-8242 | EmmaH@MaroonPR.com  

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ALEXANDRIA, Va. (May 22, 2024) – The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation (MCSF) today announced the largest number of scholarships and highest dollar amount ever awarded in one year in its more than 60-year history. For the 2024-2025 academic year, MCSF will award $11.7 million in scholarships to 2,882 children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen nationwide — 124 more students than the previous academic year. MCSF’s mission is to honor Marines by providing scholarships for their children attending post-high school, undergraduate, and career and technical education programs in all 50 states.

MCSF’s scholarship recipients are top-tier scholars, with a 91% graduation rate: well above the national average of just 54%. These scholars also hold an average GPA of 3.43, compared to 3.15 nationally. Further, 48% of recipients are first-generation college students, and 47% pursue STEM degrees. 67% of MCSF scholarship recipients graduate with little to no debt, compared to the national average of 33%.  100% of applicants that meet MCSF’s eligibility requirements receive a scholarship to further support their education.

“We’re proud to announce another record-breaking number of scholars for the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation this year. Guided by the principles of honor, courage and commitment, we’re certain these remarkable young individuals, as children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen, hold immense promise. It’s both a privilege and a duty to invest in their future,” said Ted Probert, Lieutenant Colonel USMC (Ret.) and current President and CEO of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. “Our work isn’t complete until every eligible child of a Marine has the opportunity they deserve. With nearly 20,000 potential candidates nationwide, we’re resolute in our mission to extend support to even more families in the years ahead.”

Founded in 1962, MCSF is the nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children. Since its inception, it has awarded nearly 60,000 renewable scholarships valued at over $200 million.

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About The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation: 

Established in 1962, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is the Nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children. Since its inception, the Scholarship Foundation has provided approximately 60,000 renewable scholarships valued at over $200 million to the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen. For more information on the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, please visit www.mcsf.org.

CONTACT:          

Eric Hammond | Maroon PR | 443-614-9456 | Eric@MaroonPR.com

Emma Hottel | Maroon PR | 410-739-8242 | EmmaH@MaroonPR.com  

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ALEXANDRIA, Va. (May 3, 2024) – The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation (MCSF), a national nonprofit providing post-secondary educational scholarships to the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen, today announced that its 62nd New York Leatherneck Campaign Ball, held on Thursday, May 2, at The Plaza in New York City, raised over $600,000 from the sold out event with over 350 attendees. Proceeds from the ball support the Scholarship Foundation’s mission of providing need-based scholarships to military children for their post-high school college or career and technical education.

Brian Wenzel Sr., executive vice president and chief financial officer of Synchrony, a consumer financial services company, was honored with the Semper Fidelis Award in recognition of his contribution to the education of children of Marines and his involvement in Synchrony’s veterans’ network, which supports veterans’ growth through professional and personal development, career management, mentoring and networking. The Semper Fidelis Award recognizes individuals whose service exemplifies the Marine Corps motto to remain “Always Faithful.”  

Among the guests were Marine families, supporters, and military guest of honor, Lieutenant General James F. Glynn whose distinguished career includes service as a rifle platoon commander during Operations Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He is currently the deputy commandant for manpower and reserve affairs at Quantico, Virginia. 

“The 62nd New York Leatherneck Campaign Ball was a testament to the dedication and support of our community for the education of military children,” said Ted Probert, Lieutenant Colonel USMC (Ret.) and current president and CEO for the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. “It’s through events like these that we can continue to provide life-changing educational opportunities to the children of Marines, honoring their sacrifices and ensuring their futures.”

MCSF’s mission is to honor Marines by providing scholarships for their children attending post-high school, undergraduate, and career and technical education programs. For the 2023-2024 academic year, MCSF awarded $10.8 million in scholarships to 2,758 children of Marines nationwide — the largest number of scholarships and highest dollar amount ever awarded in one year in its more than 60-year history.

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About The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation: 

Established in 1962, the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is the Nation’s oldest and largest provider of need-based scholarships for military children. Since its inception, the Scholarship Foundation has provided over 55,000 scholarships valued at more than $200 million to the children of Marines and Navy Corpsmen. Recipients are from all 50 states, in addition to 18 overseas bases and U.S. territories. The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation has earned an Accredited Charity rating from the Better Business Bureau, 4/4 stars from Charity Navigator, and GuideStar’s Platinum Seal of Transparency. For more information on the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, please visit www.mcsf.org.

CONTACT:           

Eric Hammond | Maroon PR | 443-614-9456 | Eric@MaroonPR.com 

Emma Hottel | Maroon PR | 410-739-8242 | EmmaH@MaroonPR.com  

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When the team learns that their retired colleague Donald “Ducky” Mallard has died, it mentioned that the family is requesting, in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation.

As the episode reached its conclusion, the daughter of the Marine featured in the story is told that she is being awarded a college scholarship from the nonprofit.

The last remaining original cast member of NCIS after 20 seasons, McCallum passed away in September 2023. In addition to his role as Mallard on the CBS crime series, McCallum is also known for portraying secret agent Illya Kuryakin in “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.” series decades ago.

McCallum was involved with the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation offscreen and his family has been active on its board of directors. The family established a scholarship in memory of McCallum’s brother-in-law, Marine Cpl. George Whitney Carpenter, who was killed in the Vietnam War in 1967.

McCallum went beyond his personal financial contributions to MCSF and played a pivotal role in raising awareness for its mission of providing educational opportunities to the children of Marines. He worked with the show’s writers to weave mentions of MCSF into “NCIS” episodes. When it came time to write the tribute episode, the writers included the nonprofit once again since it was such an important part of McCallum’s life.

“The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation remains grateful for the enduring impact of David McCallum and his family,” said retired Marine Lt. Col. Ted Probert, president and CEO of the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation. “Their financial support and push for awareness give us a tremendous boost in pursuit of our goal to reach even more families and award more scholarships year after year.”

McCallum’s wife, Katherine Carpenter, previously served on MCSF’s Board of Directors and his son, Peter McCallum, currently serves on the board. In honor of McCallum’s life, his family has directed further donations to the organization.

“As my grandfather and uncle were Marines, military causes have always been a major priority throughout our family,” said Peter McCallum.

MCSF provides scholarships for the children of Marines attending post-high school, undergraduate, and career and technical education programs. For the 2023-2024 academic year, the nonprofit awarded $10.8 million in scholarships to 2,758 children of Marines nationwide — the largest number of scholarships and highest dollar amount ever awarded in one year in its more than 60-year history.

Read more here.

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