The Power of Community: Uplifting the Next Generation of Scholars

Marta & Janelle (daughter) at Janelle's Master's of Public Health Graduation from Emory University

At the heart of The Marta Washington Gore Foundation lies a simple but powerful belief: when we uplift one, we uplift us all. As we continue to support and empower young scholars, we are reminded that community is not just a backdrop to success — it is the foundation upon which greatness is built.

For generations, families and neighborhoods of color have carried one another through the storms of adversity. From church pews to classroom desks, from front porches to community centers, we’ve learned that progress happens when we come together. During these unprecedented times where educational inequities and systemic barriers persist, the presence of a strong community can mean the difference between potential left untapped and purposefully realized. Mentorship, representation, and belonging give young scholars of color the courage to step into spaces that were not built for them — and transform those spaces into platforms for change.

As a current Clinical Psychology Ph.D. student, my journey began long before I entered the world of academia. Growing up, I faced significant challenges in school and often struggled with my identity as a Black girl navigating educational spaces that didn’t always affirm or understand me. I experienced microaggressions from both teachers and peers. However, my mom was my constant source of strength. She made sure I always felt empowered and capable, even when others told me otherwise. Her love and belief in me laid the foundation for my resilience and ignited my passion for helping others find their voice. Sometimes, all students of color with learning differences or academic struggles need is that one person — or one community — to remind them that they belong, are capable, and that their story matters.

The same spirit of love and advocacy fuels the Marta Washington Gore Foundation. It exists to ensure that no young scholar ever feels unseen or unsupported. Through mentorship, scholarships, and community engagement, we are building a network of care that uplifts and empowers the next generation to achieve more than they can imagine. That’s the legacy my mother left behind, and it’s the legacy we proudly continue.