Supporting tomorrow’s future leaders.
MKS was founded out of a passion for scholars
The Marsha Kelley-Sutton Foundation (MKS Foundation) provides multi-faceted experiences designed to guide students for progression through higher education. The Foundation offers experiences created to develop global leaders committed to philanthropic ideals and service.
The Foundation assists graduating high school to post-graduate students in matriculating at accredited educational institutions. Students are guided through honing skills in essay writing, interviewing, business etiquette, networking, and mentorship. The MKS Foundation goes a step further by equipping students with “The Foundation Experience” to enhance personal and professional growth, thus creating leaders who will transcend the complexities of society. In addition to offering personal and professional development, the MKS Foundation provides financial assistance to eligible students to help them eliminate barriers that might limit their efforts to focus on their academics and achieve their highest potential.
Founder Marsha Kelley-Sutton has a passion and gift for helping meet the myriad and unique needs and challenges that can confront individuals seeking higher education. The Foundation was created to provide a personal approach to meeting needs that traditional scholarships may not cover. Scholars will be assisted as they create philanthropic activities on their campus, in the community, or virtually to share their unique gifts and talents with others. This Foundation works to positively affect the lives of young men and women striving to be successful in all aspects of their lives.
Marsha Kelley-Sutton, Founder & CEO
“As a single parent, my highest goal in life was to care for my daughter. Special people in my life assisted me in this and encouraged me to focus on developing myself. Since that time, I have set and accomplished a multitude of goals. In 1996, I began a career at an institution of higher learning that fulfilled dreams I had never had. Over the past 30 years, I’ve worked with youth and young adults, helping them fulfill their dreams and reach their goals. This Foundation helps me continue the work I’ve become so passionate about. I look forward to expanding and building new relationships as I connect to others and inspire future global leaders."
Marsha Kelley-Sutton’s diverse experience and expertise have prepared her for her mission as founder and CEO of the MKS Foundation. She possesses expertise in program management, grant solicitation, and developing strategic partnerships. Most of her experience comes from her more than 20 years of service at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). Ms. Kelley-Sutton’s profession as a program administrator for the University of Alabama School of Medicine allowed her to build institutional coalitions, community partnerships, and lasting relationships with professionals and students nationwide. Additionally, she served as Teen Program Director for the YMCA for almost 10 years, where her leadership assisted in establishing goals for a college readiness program, which maintained a 100% graduation rate. Presently, she is a program manager for the UAB Department of Pediatrics/Division of Adolescent Medicine, which supports programs for middle and high school students interested in medically related careers. Ms. Kelley-Sutton began her academic pursuits at Tuskegee University and completed her undergraduate degree at UAB. She also holds a Master of Public Administration from UAB and certifications in Non-Profit Management and Manager Training. Ms. Kelley-Sutton has one biological daughter, Taylor Danielle, and hundreds of former students who are now practicing professionals and are part of her extended family.
