SJ
Shakhi Leni Johnson
Scotch Plains–Fanwood High School
Delaware State UniversityThe William J. Dowdy Foundation · Newark, New Jersey
Opening Doors to
Higher Education.
We help young people in the greater Newark area pursue college through scholarships, while creating opportunities to learn, grow, and connect with their community.
Helping others since 2006
Celebrating educational opportunity in our community
Our purpose
Opportunity can change a student’s future.
The William J. Dowdy Foundation serves children and young people in the greater Newark, New Jersey area. Scholarships for higher education sit at the heart of our work, alongside exposure to the arts, culture, science, athletics, and community support.
Get to know the foundation
The Maldine C. Dowdy Scholarship
Investing in what comes next.
The foundation’s scholarship supports students working toward an undergraduate degree. Selection considers financial need, academic achievement, merit, a personal statement, and other qualities described in the foundation’s scholarship information.
Application status
The latest published application is for 2025–2026 and closed May 31, 2026. Please contact the foundation for information about the next application cycle.
Scholarship recipients
Recognizing ambition and achievement.
OO
Oluwadunsin Olatunji
Newark Tech High School
New Jersey Institute of TechnologyGY
Gracia Yakavi
Newark Central High School
Rutgers UniversityAR
Anaisa Rodriguez
Union High School
Smith CollegeBeyond scholarships
Showing up for our community.
Events
Gathering for a stronger community.
From scholarship breakfasts to the annual golf outing, foundation events bring people together around opportunity and service.
See eventsEvent updates
No upcoming event dates are currently published.
Past events include the 17th Annual Golf Outing in August 2026 and the 2025 Easter Egg Hunt.
Browse past events →Help Us Help Others
Give a young person
room to imagine more.
Your gift supports the foundation’s scholarship and community work for young people in the greater Newark area.
Donations are processed through PayPal.