WHEREAS, The cost of tuition makes it difficult for many young people to achieve the dream of a higher education; and
     WHEREAS, High school students who have overcome adversity and have exemplified the values of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. deserve recognition for their accomplishments and assistance in their effort to attend college; and
     WHEREAS, Twenty-five years ago, the Mount Baker neighborhood in Seattle, Washington organized as a community to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., by creating a scholarship program for South Seattle students of color who wish to obtain a higher education; and
     WHEREAS, Scholarships are awarded to high school students who, although they may not be at the top of their class, have shown the perseverance and potential to allow them to succeed and contribute to their communities; and
     WHEREAS, Many of the scholarship recipients are the first in their families to attend college, and receipt of the scholarship may be pivotal in a student's decision to continue their education; and
     WHEREAS, The Mount Baker Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Program is the only grassroots, community-based, all-volunteer scholarship program of its kind today in the United States; and
     WHEREAS, Since its inception, the Mount Baker Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Program has grown in size and scope and remains supported by hundreds of generous Mount Baker neighbors and local businesses; and
     WHEREAS, On Friday, January 23, 2009, the Mount Baker Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Program is celebrating its 25th year of awarding college scholarships;
     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, That the Senate recognize the Mount Baker community for its support of deserving youth, and recognize the Mount Baker Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholarship Program for 25 years of leadership in helping students of color achieve the dream of higher education.