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 $100,000 in scholarships to over 50 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.
We envision a future in which every HBCU graduate turns academic enrichment into impact confidently stepping into the marketplace as purpose-driven leaders, empowered by scholarship opportunities, comprehensive financial-literacy training, dedicated career guidance, and meaningful opportunities that propel them into fulfilling and economically mobile careers.
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 will expand our HBCU Bridge Program to prepare 1,000 high school students for college, career, and life success, invest $500,000 in scholarships to reduce student loan debt for HBCU students, and graduate 500 financially empowered leaders through our HBCU Money Masters program while maintaining a 95% four-year graduation rate. In addition, 1,000 HBCU scholars will complete industry-recognized Google certifications, gaining in-demand skills to excel in the workforce. With a commitment to excellence, equity, and opportunity, we are building a pipeline of diverse talent ready to lead and thrive.
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.
2024
Impact Report
2025
Impact Report
Our Partners
Our Partners
News & Events
March 6, 2026
KR Scholars Awards Good News Scholarship to Thurgood Marshall School of Law 1L Samia
KR Scholars is proud to announce Samia, a first-year law student at Thurgood Marshall School of Law, as the recipient of the KR Scholars Good News Scholarship. The scholarship supports aspiring legal professionals committed to service, leadership, and uplifting their communities, while helping expand representation in the legal profession.
March 6, 2026
KR Scholars' HBCU Bridge Program and Truist Bring Real-World Financial Literacy Simulation to John Marshall High School
KR Scholars, through The HBCU Bridge Program, is partnering with Truist to bring the Life, Money, and Choices™ financial literacy simulation to John Marshall High School on Tuesday, April 28th. The interactive experience will help 60 students practice real-world financial decision-making and build essential money management skills as they prepare for college and adulthood.
February 13, 2026
From Campus to Career
The HBCU Bridge recently hosted a powerful Careers 101 panel connecting students to professionals in economically mobile careers. From healthcare to technology to finance, students gained real-world insight into career pathways, earning potential, and the power of exposure.
