The Founder
Norman Markland, the founder of Markland Motivates, grew up in Lawton, Oklahoma in a single-parent household and quickly learned the importance of identifying with a community of supporters. Because of the mentors and the organization that helped him become successful, Norman grew a passion for giving back to his community and being a positive example to black men who stem from underprivileged communities. After graduating from Lawton Senior High school, Norman attended the University of Central Oklahoma where he received his bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with a minor in Spanish. After graduation, Norman attended the University of Oklahoma where he received his master’s degree in Adult & Higher Education with an emphasis in Student Personnel. After working in Higher Education, Norman decided to continue his education and received his second master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Langston University/Oklahoma City Campus. In Oklahoma City, Norman serves as a licensed Professional Counselor, entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and the Independent Team Leader & Housing Supervisor at Pivot “A Turning Point for Youth,” where he leads a transitional housing program for youth experiencing homelessness.
About the Organization
The Markland Motivate foundation is a 501 (c)(3) organization that assists in enhancing under-resourced communities through community outreach, economic development, mentorship, and scholarships to African American men who are in high school. The scholarship program is designed to encourage young black men to graduate from high school, enter adulthood, and attend Post-Secondary education or a vocational/trade school of their interest. Markland Motivates initiatives also includes mentorship to young black men with a focus in the areas of positive identify development, financial literacy, employment skills, and healthy relationships.
The Scholarship
The Motivate scholarship is a one-time scholarship of $500 - $1500. The scholarship(s) is an investment in the future growth, development, and well-being of African American men who graduate from high school and attend college. Nationwide research continues to indicate the graduation rate for black males being one of the lowest at 59%. This is the lowest of any population in the country. This statistic only continues to provide evidence of the economic, community, and systemic barriers that continue to impact the trajectory of the black community.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Applicants must be males and of African American descent;
Applicants must be seniors graduating from Lawton Senior High School or Oklahoma City Public High School and meet the entrance requirement for an accredited college or university;
Applicants must have a 3.0 G.P.A. or higher; and
Applicants must submit a completed application mailed, emailed, or scanned to the Markland Motivate Foundation by the application deadline.
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Norman Markland
Executive Director, Mentor