Graduation caps thrown into the sky

Helping DC Students Turn Acceptance Letters into College Degrees Since 1984.

Every scholarship we award helps a deserving student pursue a college education and a brighter future. By removing financial barriers, we empower students to focus on their studies, achieve their goals, and become leaders in their communities. An investment in a student’s education is an investment in a stronger future for us all.

— Endowment Growth

The $10 Million Campaign.

An endowment is not a bank account — it’s a promise. When donors contribute to KSEF’s endowment, their gifts are invested and the returns generate scholarship funds year after year. Donations made to establish scholarships under the Named Endowed Scholarship Program (NESP) are guaranteed to be awarded in perpetuity.

The Road to $10 Million Will Provide

  • 01More ScholarshipsNow 29–38 awarded annually.
  • 02Larger AwardsCurrently $8,000 awarded per student over 4 years.
  • 03Long-Term SustainabilityNESP donors help keep the fund base strong.
Endowment ProgressGoal $10M
1984 – 2023$5.5M

Four decades of steady growth

2023 – 2024$6M

Direct gifts and appreciated stock

2024 – 2025$6.5M

Current endowment

The Goal$10M

$10 Million Campaign

Reaching $10 million is not just a financial milestone. It is the point at which KSEF can provide scholarship grants large enough to move the needle for students navigating the real cost of a four-year degree. Every contribution — of any size — moves us closer to that moment.

Grow the Endowment — Donate
— Scholar Stories

Behind every number is a student from Washington, DC.

Behind every number in our endowment is a student from Washington, DC who earned a scholarship and used it to build a life. KSEF has supported more than 900 scholars since 1984 — students who graduated from DC’s Public and Public Charter High Schools and went on to earn four-year college degrees.

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— Scholar Outcomes

Degrees earned. Careers launched. Communities changed.

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Scholars Supported

DC public and public charter high school graduates since 1984.

$0.00M+
Scholarships Awarded

Invested directly in tuition, books, and degree completion.

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Awards Each Year

Between 29 and 38 scholarships awarded annually.

$0
Per Scholar

Awarded over four years of undergraduate study.

Where our scholars study

KSEF scholars pursue four-year degrees across a wide range of fields at colleges and universities nationwide, including HBCUs and top research institutions.

  • STEM & Engineering34%
  • Business & Economics24%
  • Health & Life Sciences18%
  • Social Sciences & Public Policy14%
  • Arts & Humanities10%