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 with a commitment to philanthropic ideals and service.
The Foundation assists graduating high school to post-graduate students 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 offers financial assistance to eligible students that assist in eliminating barriers that might limit a student’s effort 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 as well as challenges that can confront individuals seeking higher education. The Foundation was created to provide a personal approach in 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 special 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 take care of my daughter. There were special people in my life who 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 that I had never dreamt. Over the past 20 years, I’ve had the honor of working with youth and young adults helping them to fulfill dreams and reach their goals. This Foundation helps me to continue the work about which I’ve become so passionate. 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 has prepared her for her mission as founder and CEO of the MKS Foundation. She possesses expertise in program management, grant solicitation, and development of strategic partnerships. The majority of her experience comes from her more than 20 years service to 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 across the country. 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 coordinator for the UAB Mini Medical School Program which supports middle 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 Masters of Public Administration from UAB as well as certifications in Non-Profit Management and Manager Training. Ms. Kelley-Sutton has one biological daughter, Taylor Danielle and hundreds of once students, now practicing professionals who are her extended family.
