African-American Community Foundation - Idotha Bootsie Neal Scholarship Grant

The African-American Community Foundation - Idotha Bootsie Neal Scholarship is awarded to graduating seniors from Dayton Public Schools accepted to Central State University. Established in 2021 in memory of Idotha Bootsie Neal, the scholarship honors her legacy as a trailblazer in the community. Applicants must demonstrate successful employment or volunteer experience, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to empowering local youth and fostering educational opportunities in Greater Dayton.

The Dayton Foundation
It helps individuals, families, and organizations fulfill their charitable goals by managing permanent funds, awarding grants, and offering scholarships. Having awarded over $1.2 billion in grants and managing more than 4,100 funds, the Foundation acts as a significant regional philanthropic partner committed to strengthening the social, economic, and cultural fabric of the community.
Mission and Priorities
The Foundation’s mission is to help donors and organizations "help others" through philanthropic services, strategic grantmaking, and community leadership. With a vision of creating a vibrant and inclusive Greater Dayton, the Foundation focuses on building capacity for nonprofits, promoting equitable opportunities, and collaborating across sectors to address community challenges. Its priorities include supporting education and workforce development, enhancing health and human services, advancing arts and culture, and responding to urgent regional needs through initiatives like disaster relief and community recovery.
African-American Community Foundation - Idotha Bootsie Neal Scholarship
This scholarship was created in 2021 in memory of Idotha Bootsie Neal. In 1991, she was elected as the first African-American female City of Dayton Commissioner where she served for 12 years. Ms. Neal served as director of Central State University West, Dayton Campus and also served as director of Wright Dunbar, Inc., where she retired in 2014. Idotha M. Neal was affectionately known by her family name "Bootsie." She was a faithful and devoted member of Mt. Enon Missionary Baptist Church where she served on numerous committees. Bootsie was a proud member of The Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Eligibility

Be a graduating senior from a Dayton Public School,Be accepted to and planning to attend Central State University, andHave successful experience being employed or volunteering/community services.