Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Trust Fund Announces its 2026 Winners

For the 58th consecutive year, the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Trust Fund (MLKSTF) is proud to announce the 2026 scholarship winners:

Abigael Dumas, Saint Bernard’s High School
Abigail Gaspard, Norwich Free Academy
A’Charee Sampson, Norwich Free Academy
Akira Gregor, Robert E. Fitch High School
Brandon Duyan, Robert E. Fitch High School
Ethan Dong, East Lyme High School
Jayda Johnson, Norwich Free Academy
Julian Everett Vigil-Childs, Three Rivers Middle College
Kenneth Willoughby, New London Multi-Magnet High School
Robert Vergara, Robert E. Fitch High School
Rose Alcius, Norwich Free Academy
Rylee Hope, Ledyard High School
Winter Davis, Robert E. Fitch High School

The 2026 scholars will be recognized at the annual award ceremony on October 22nd to be held at the Premiere Ballroom, Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, CT. The event will begin with a social hour at 5:00 p.m. followed by dinner and presentations.

Like the 250 scholars who came before them, this extraordinary collection of 13 young student leaders from across New London County were chosen through a rigorous selection process designed to measure their dedication to learning, their understanding of Dr. King's mission, the content of their character, and their financial need. This year’s winners were selected after a review of their application, academic records, community service, class standing, and a written essay. Scholarship winners will each receive $25,000 dollars distributed in $6,250 installments over a four-year period while they remain in college.

The MLKSTF was launched in New London County in the days and weeks after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Since 1968, the MLKSTF has been celebrating the power of education to expand lives and change the world. MLKSTF scholars are academic achievers, community leaders, and talented creators. After completing their post-secondary education, many pursue advanced degrees, careers, and volunteer roles that make a difference regionally, nationally, and globally. Past scholars include actors, performers, linguists, writers, doctors, lawyers, educators, engineers,
scientists, business leaders, entrepreneurs, business consultants, community activists and more.