About Us and Our Journey
Make College Dreams a Reality
Our Story
KR Scholars traces its roots back to 2020 when it was established by the dedicated couple Rufus and Kristen Johnson, both proud HBCU graduates who experienced the transformative power of Historically Black Colleges and Universities firsthand. Amidst the pandemic and following the George Floyd tragedy that swept the nation, Rufus and Kristen were moved by a shared mission: to promote positive change within their sphere of influence. Initially driven by their personal commitment to philanthropy, they set out to make a difference with their own resources. In 2021, the foundation formally evolved into a nonprofit, a pivotal moment that marked the beginning of their remarkable journey. Since 2020 the organization has grown exponentially, awarding over $50,000 in scholarships to over 20 HBCU students.
The foundation's focus extends beyond scholarship support, by also emphasizing financial literacy and workforce readiness for HBCU students. Looking ahead, they aspire to guide high school students in their transition to HBCUs through their innovative program, "The HBCU Bridge." As our mission and impact continues to thrive, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advocating the future of higher education at HBCUs.
Founders Kristen and Rufus Johnson, have both benefitted greatly from the rich heritage of Historical Black Colleges. They started KR Scholars to help others do the same.
Our Why
Having personally benefited from the rich heritage of HBCUs, we've experienced upward mobility and now aim to extend the same opportunities to others. Recognizing that many HBCU students are first-generation and 73% are Pell Grant eligible, the financial strain can lead to higher dropout rates, increased debt, delayed graduation, and limit opportunities for academic success and career advancement.
Supporting HBCU students reflects our commitment to giving back as philanthropists and advocates for HBCUs.
Our Vision
At KR Scholars, we are driven by a bold vision for the future. By 2030, we aspire to award $500,000 in scholarships to deserving HBCU students, ensuring that they have the support they need to pursue higher education while lessening the burden of student loan debt. In parallel, we are dedicated to graduating 500 HBCU students through our groundbreaking Financial Literacy Foundations Institute, equipping them with essential financial skills to thrive in an ever-evolving world. With a commitment to fostering excellence and empowering the next generation of leaders coming from HBCUs, we are excited to embark on this transformative journey to cultivate a diverse and inclusive workforce.
Mrs. Genola Dunlap
Northwestern State University
Brian Davis
Winston Salem State University
Dr. Ramine Alexander
Winston Salem State University
Kendrick Best
Winston Salem State University
Chantiny Reese
North Carolina A&T State University
Minta Cliett
Albany State University
Bridgitte Miller Powell
North Carolina A&T State University
Board of Directors
We take a multifaceted approach to helping scholars achieve success. Our programs include scholarships, college prep, financial literacy, and workforce readiness for current and aspiring HBCU students.
Financials
KR Scholars stands accountable to our community through unwavering integrity, clear transparency, and disciplined financial stewardship.
To explore our financial performance and transparency, please review the Annual Reports and IRS Form 990 filings below. We encourage you to dive into our most recent Annual Report to see the impact of your support and join us in fulfilling our promise to empower the next generation of HBCU scholars.
Our Partners
Our Partners
News & Events
July 8, 2025
Driving Impact: KR Scholars’ Leadership at the 15th HBCU Philanthropy Symposium
KR Scholars founders Rufus and Kristen Johnson joined hundreds of HBCU advocates at the 15th Annual HBCU Philanthropy Symposium to explore innovative fundraising strategies, deepen community partnerships, and celebrate the enduring impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
July 2, 2025
KR Scholars Hosts Mayor’s Youth Engagement Services to Provide Richmond Youth with Work Opportunities
This summer, KR Scholars proudly partnered with the Mayor’s Youth Engagement Services (YES) to create paid work opportunities for Richmond-area youth. By combining KR Scholars’ commitment to HBCU preparation with YES’s civic engagement framework, we offered hands-on roles that equip students with real-world skills, professional experience, and a springboard into future careers.
July 1, 2025
Bank of America’s Richmond BPG Partners with KR Scholars to Prepare Youth for Career Success
This summer, The HBCU Bridge Summer Edition kicked off with an exciting partnership between KR Scholars and the Bank of America Richmond Black Professional Group (BPG). Our goal? To give Richmond-area high school and college scholars the confidence and skills they need to excel in interviews and embrace future career opportunities.
