Celebrating Marcus, Ayana and David
This February, we’re saluting Black service members. For generations, they’ve served our country with Honor, Courage, and Commitment. In honor of Black History Month, we want you to meet a few of the Marine Scholars carrying on their proud legacy.
Marcus has known he wanted to pursue a career in the sciences since his 10th grade anatomy and physiology class. But earning a degree in medical laboratory science comes with extra expenses – like laboratory fees and equipment. Support from the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation eases the additional financial burden on Marcus’ family.
“Thank you for assisting me to become one step closer to my dream of becoming a pathologist,” he told us. “I am extremely grateful to be considered a worthy scholarship recipient.”
Ayana’s Marine dad has always inspired her. “His dedication and commitment to public service influenced me in and out of school, to be focused and driven,” she said.
As a senior at Clemson University, she brings that focus and drive to her computer science studies – she hopes to become a software developer. But she’s equally dedicated to her work beyond the classroom – volunteering with the community center’s after-school program and a number of student-led organizations. “These organizations are important to me because they allow me to make a difference in my community.”
David’s father served in the Marine Corps for more than 25 years, including a tour in Iraq. Their family moved frequently – which was tough on David growing up. But it inspired a sense of resilience in him – and a deep desire to keep exploring the world.
With support from the Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation, David was able to study abroad in Cape Town, South Africa, and Beijing, China, while pursuing his nursing degree at the University of Texas at Austin. “Thank you so much for this scholarship award and the many opportunities it accompanies. Your investment in me has transformed my college experience, and I am grateful for your generosity.”
Thank you so much for supporting our Marine Scholars – and their parents’ proud legacy of service.