Jonathan Dewberry Porter Memorial Scholarship Grant

The Jonathan Dewberry Porter Memorial Scholarship, established by the family of Jonathan Porter, a dedicated veteran and Central State University Upward Bound graduate, supports graduating seniors from the program. This scholarship aims to assist students who demonstrate financial need and have a minimum GPA of 2.0, helping them pursue further education at colleges or technical schools, thereby continuing Jonathan's legacy of aiding others in achieving their dreams.

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.
The Jonathan Dewberry Porter Memorial Scholarship has been established by the family in memory of their brother, private first class Jonathan Porter, a veteran of the United States Army and graduate of the Central State University Upward Bound Program. According to Jonathan's family, he was very committed to the CSU Upward Bound Program (1981-1986). It was due to the Upward Bound Program, following his brief college-going experience, that Jonathan decided to join the military. The program introduced him to the various branches of the military along with other career options. Jonathan was committed to helping others to achieve their goals and dreams. This scholarship is designed to assist other Upward Bound students as they begin to realize their goals and dreams.

Eligibility

Be a graduating senior from the Central State University Upward Bound Program,Have a minimum GPA of 2.0 based upon a 4.0 scale,Be accepted to a two-year, four-year, technical school or college or university, andDemonstrate financial need.