Whitney M. Young Scholars Program

Lincoln Foundation’s signature program for student success (Grades 8 -12).

Preparing Tomorrow’s Leaders for College and Beyond

The Whitney M. Young Scholars Program is a rigorous academic initiative that challenges students to think critically, engage deeply, and prepare intentionally for the demands of higher education. Open to all students in the Louisville Metropolitan area, the program prioritizes those from under-resourced households who demonstrate strong academic potential and a commitment to excellence.

Program Structure

Educational Clinics

Held on Saturdays throughout the academic year, these sessions are designed to:

Deepen mastery in mathematics, science, and analytical writing
Strengthen critical thinking, persuasive reasoning, and public speaking
Prepare students for the rigor of college-level coursework and standardized testing

Summer Programs

Hosted on college campuses, these immersive academic experiences offer:

Intensive study in STEM and humanities
Exposure to college-level expectations and independent learning
Explore the worlds of “Big Data” and virtual enrepreneurship

Parental Clinics

Monthly seminars that equip families with tools to support their scholar’s academic journey:

Understanding academic benchmarks and test scores

Mastering the college selection process and planning financially for college
Navigating the pressures of adolescence and academic growth

College Preparation & Long-Term Support

Our commitment begins in 8th grade and continues through college graduation. Through the College Transition Enrichment Program, scholars receive:

One-on-one college advising and academic planning with an assigned success coach
Face-to-face campus visits with success coaches
Ongoing guidance on financial aid, course selection, and academic persistence

A Legacy of Academic Excellence

Founded in 1990 by Dr. Samuel Robinson, the program honors the legacy of Dr. Whitney M. Young, Sr., and Dr. Whitney M. Young, Jr., both of whom championed education as a path to leadership and societal impact.

To honor Dr. Robinson’s enduring impact, the program annually presents the Dr. Samuel Robinson Award of Excellence, a prestigious recognition awarded to a graduating high school senior who demonstrates exceptional dedication, leadership, and academic achievement within the program. The recipient also receives the Educational Opportunity Scholarship.

Award recipients receive a comprehensive financial package that includes:

A renewable $5,000 annual scholarship, totaling $20,000 over four years of college
Up to $2,500 per year to support essential academic needs such as technology, computers, and educational supplies
Up to $10,000 in funding for study abroad

View the current and past recipients of the Dr. Samuel Robinson Award of Excellence

Who Should Apply?

We’re looking for students who are:

Entering 8^th or 9^th grade
Maintaining a 3.0 GPA or higher
Eager to engage in intensive academic study
Eligible for free/reduced lunch (for priority consideration)

Note: Applications are open annually from January through early April. A parental account is required to apply.

Before You Begin

Please have:

Your student ID number
The name and email of your assistant principal or counselor