About Us

This Foundation Was Established In Memory of Michael D. Richardson

Our foundation was organized in 2007 to honor the memory of Michael D. Richardson, a thirty-year-old lifelong Rockaway resident who attended and graduated from Howard University and from Georgetown University where his goal was to become a lawyer. However, he was tragically murdered on June 29, 2007 in Washington, D.C. where his dreams were cut short. Our goal is to select students from under-served families that would benefit from the issuance of this scholarship.

About The Foundation

History and inspiration behind the foundation:

The Michael D. Richardson Foundation was established in 2007 to honor the life and legacy of Michael D. Richardson, a devoted thirty-year-old lifelong resident of Rockaway, New York. A proud graduate of Howard University, Michael was pursuing his dream of becoming a lawyer at Georgetown University. His promising future was tragically cut short when he was senselessly taken from us on June 27, 2007, in Washington, D.C. The foundation stands as a tribute to his unwavering dedication to education, justice, and community.

Mission Statement

The mission of the Michael D. Richardson Foundation is to honor the legacy of Michael D. Richardson by empowering high school seniors with scholarships as they pursue higher education. Rooted in his lifelong commitment to education, leadership, and service, the Foundation seeks to inspire academic achievement and foster a spirit of community engagement. Through our support, we aim to develop future leaders who will carry forward his values and make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Fueling The Future With The Power Of Education

The Michael D. Richardson Foundation is dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders by providing scholarships to high school seniors pursuing higher education.

We provide financial assistance to high school seniors who exhibit academic excellence, leadership qualities, and a commitment to community service. Our scholarships are designed to alleviate the financial burden of college tuition and related expenses.

We believe in the power of giving back. Our scholars are encouraged to participate in community service projects and initiatives, fostering a spirit of civic responsibility and social impact.

Uplift Students

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”

— Nelson Mandela

Provide Opportunities

“Education is not a privilege, it is a right. It is a powerful tool for opportunity and equality.”

— Arne Duncan, former U.S. Secretary of Education

Build Character

“Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.”

— Albert Einstein

Meet the Board Directors Members

The mission of The Michael D. Richardson Foundation is to provide scholarships to multiple High School Seniors who are continuing to pursue their education at the college level.

Ralph
Richardson

Chairman

Betty
Leon

Co-Director

Nickesha
Brown

Co-Director

John
Pensabene

Treasurer

Who we are?

Our foundation was organized in 2007 to honor the memory of Michael D. Richardson, a thirty-year-old lifelong Rockaway resident who attended and graduated from Howard University and from Georgetown University where his goal was to become a lawyer. However, he was tragically murdered on June 29, 2007 in Washington, D.C. where his dreams were cut short. Our goal is to select students from under-served families that would benefit from the issuance of this scholarship.

Mission Statement

The mission of The Michael D. Richardson Foundation is to provide scholarships to multiple High School Seniors who are continuing to pursue their education at the college level.

Uplift Students

Imagine with all your mind, believe with all your heart and achieve with all your might.

Provide Opportunities

Make the best of every opportunity! Qualified students will be given a chance to earn a scholarship go to college.

Build Character

This opportunity truly builds confidence. High school graduates will be given a chance to become self reliant.

Meet the Board Members

Betty Leon

Betty Leon

Co-chair
John Pensabene

John Pensabene

Treasurer
Ralph Richardson

Ralph Richardson

Chairman
Nickesha Brown

Nickesha Brown

Secretary and Co-director
To seek and provide opportunities to our youths, to further educate the next generation.