"The time is always right to do what is right." - Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

The 2026 MLK Scholarship Breakfast is a collaboration between the National Forum for Black Public Administrators - East Central Alabama Chapter and Auburn University Outreach. Proceeds from this event will go to support scholarships for local high school students.

The MLK Scholarship Breakfast will take place on January 19, 2026, from 7:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the Auburn University Hotel and Dixon Conference Center. Parking for this event can be found in the AU Hotel parking deck or the parking lot behind the Auburn University Alumni Center.

We invite Auburn, Opelika, and the surrounding community, as well as, Auburn University administration, students, faculty, and staff to attend.

 

Events

January 19, 2026

MLK SCHOLARSHIP BREAKFAST - A legacy of Service: Empowering the Next Generation
7:30 a.m. | The Hotel at Auburn University & Dixon Conference Center


MLK DAY OF SERVICE
The MLK Day of Service is an opportunity for participants to learn more about the life and legacy of Dr. King, while giving back to the community.
Auburn Outreach logo
NFBPA East Central AL Chapter logo

2026 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholarship

  • Three $1000 merit-based scholarships will be awarded to students attending college post-graduation in East Central Alabama.
  • Minimum of 3.0 GPA; high school resume; personal video essay (no longer than 3 minutes) and a letter of recommendation from the high school counselor.

Students will need to turn in a copy of their transcript as well as complete a short essay video on – What do you consider to be the single most important societal problem? Why? How has this affected what your plan of study will be and how has this inspired your desire to give back to your community?

While this is a merit-based scholarship, all achievements and commitments and video essay submissions will be considered.

All information must be completed and in a sealed envelope returned to the counselor or emailed to: latricegkelley@gmail.com. You may post your video essay by forwarding the video by cell to (334) 444-8945 or YouTube using a privacy setting or share the channel/link by Friday, November 28, 2025.

Students awarded scholarships are required to join NFBPA as a student member prior to receiving their scholarship check ($60.00 will be deducted from the East Central Alabama scholarship which will pay NFBPA national and local chapter dues) Membership benefits includes all benefits offered to paid NFBPA members, including a direct link to other professional in the NFBPA membership network. Members are required to participate in chapter related events.

Mail official transcripts to:
NFBPA
PO Box 2884,
Auburn, AL 36831-2884


Tips and Guidelines for the Video Essay

  • Be prepared – take time to plan your answers before recording.
  • Speak for yourself – only you should be talking in the video.
  • Be visible – make sure we can clearly see you.
  • Use a laptop or smartphone camera for the best quality.
  • Focus on your message – pay close attention to the content of your answers.
  • Ensure clear audio and lighting so we can both hear and see you well.
  • Practice makes perfect! Do a few test runs before recording.
  • Keep it concise – your video should be no longer than three minutes.
  • Start with an introduction – share your name, your plan of study, and the school you plan to attend.
  • Smile! A friendly introduction goes a long way.
  • Tell your story – include what inspires you and what you’re passionate about.
  • Enjoy the process – relax, have fun, and let your authentic self, shine through!