John Smith III was a revered citizen of Brazoria County and a longtime member of the Martin Luther King Celebration Committee where he was honored with the prestigious Drum Major Award.  He and his family lived in Freeport, Texas and John was a retiree of The Dow Chemical Company where he worked as an Engineer.  This scholarship honors his Community Service and Commitment to Science.

The Martin Luther King Celebration Committee of Brazoria County, Inc. a regionally respected community foundation will administer this scholarship fund. The purpose of the fund is to support scholarship awards for local high school seniors, who plan to pursue higher education post the secondary school level. The Martin Luther King Celebration Committee of Brazoria County, Inc. will award scholarships to a local high school senior. The Scholarship must be used by February of the following year.

  • To be eligible, a student must meet these eligibility requirements.
    • Applicants must be African American
    • Must be a resident of Brazoria County
    • Must be a student at Angleton, Brazosport, Brazoswood, Columbia or Sweeny High School
    • Must submit an application provided by the recipient’s high school or the attached application form.
    • Must submit an official high school transcript
    • Submit a 300-500 word typed essay related to “The Importance of STEM in the African American/Black Community”.
    • Submit two letters of recommendation from a teacher counselor, school administrator, or pastor.
    • Any student who plans to participate in college varsity athletics as a recipient of a full athletic scholarship WILL NOT be considered.
    • One (1) Scholarship for $1,000 will be awarded to the recipient and is contingent upon verification of enrollment in an accredited college, university, or vocational training.
    • Awards must be applied to tuition, fees, books, supplies and equipment required for courses.

The Scholarship Committee of the Martin Luther King Celebration Committee Incorporated of Brazoria County will review all applications and will select the recipient. The recipient will be notified at the high school awards ceremony with information on how to receive the scholarship.

Submit the completed application and supporting documentation by April 30, 2025.