Debra J. Santos Scholarship
A scholarship honoring the legacy of Debra J. Santos — administered and funded by Feed the Need Industries — supporting women of color through higher education.
Honoring Debra J. Santos
Debra J. Santos was born in Cleveland, Ohio on July 12, 1957. Her love of learning was apparent from a young age, and her determination led her to overcome challenges and exceed expectations in everything she did.
Debra held a BS in Professional Accounting, an MBA, an MS in Technology and Telecommunications Management, and a Ph.D. in Divinity. She held a CPA license, ran her own firm, authored two books, and was a founding member of a city charter school. She described her career using the term "social entrepreneur."
Wherever she lived, she set roots, mentored people, and touched many lives. Debra's family created this scholarship to honor her memory and inspire others to exceed expectations.
Learn more at debrajsantos.org →The Award
Beyond the Award
Who Can Apply
High school seniors, undergraduate students, and graduate students enrolled at U.S. colleges and universities.
Applicants must identify as Black, Latinx, Asian American, Native American, or Pacific Islander American, and reside in the United States.
Submit an essay of 250 words or more describing how you will make a difference in the world through social entrepreneurship or otherwise.
Past Scholarship Recipients
We are proud to recognize the young women who have received this award and are making their mark on the world.
Scholarship Recipient
Scholarship Recipient
For the full list of recipients and their colleges, visit debrajsantos.org/scholarship.
How to Apply
Verify you identify as Black, Latinx, Asian American, Native American, or Pacific Islander American and are enrolled (or accepted) at a U.S. college or university.
250 words or more on how you will make a difference in the world through social entrepreneurship or otherwise. This is your moment to share your vision.
Use the official online application, or email your materials to support@debrajsantos.org with subject line: "Scholarship Application — [Your Name]"
Finalists may be invited to a brief video or phone conversation with FTN staff about their goals and how we can support them.
All applicants are notified after the June 30th deadline. Award funds are distributed promptly after acceptance. Recipients may apply for renewal each cycle.
The quickest path to apply — takes about 10 minutes.
Open Application Form →Send your materials directly to manager@feedtheneedind.org.
The Debra J. Santos Scholarship is sustained entirely by generous donors. A gift of any size directly expands access to education for women of color.