Nominations for the 17th annual Keeper of the Dream Scholarship Awards are due to the Center for Multicultural Initiatives (CMI) by Oct. 10. Each year, the Keeper of the Dream Award pays tribute to the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. for his achievements on behalf of civil rights. The student scholarships honor undergraduate students who have contributed to his legacy of interracial understanding and good will.
Established in January 1993, the Keeper of the Dream award provides scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 for students who have demonstrated strong citizenship, scholarship and leadership in breaking down cultural stereotypes and promoting interracial understanding.
The 2009 Keeper of the Dream Award will be presented on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Monday, January 19 at an award luncheon. Noted actor, producer and human rights activist Danny Glover will be the keynote speaker at the event.
To be considered, nominees must possess a cumulative grade-point average of 3.0, demonstrate campus involvement, have a record of responsible citizenship and enroll in a minimum of 12 credits each term for fall 2009 and winter 2010 semesters.
Students must submit an application along with a typewritten resume highlighting involvement and leadership that promotes racial understanding and efforts to break down cultural barriers at OU. The application also must include an essay of 500 words or less describing how the student made a positive impact to improve interracial understanding at OU. Three verifiable letters of nomination from members of the OU community who can support the student’s multicultural initiatives must also accompany the application. Nominees will be required to complete a brief interview with the selection committee.
Application packets must be returned to Bridget Green, retention coordinator of the CMI, 134 North Foundation Hall, by Friday, Oct.10 by 5 p.m.