Record-Breaking $1.85 Million for Scholarships for Military Children at Houston Awards Dinner

Karen Kelly honored by Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation

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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