Welcome & Introduction Education shapes lives. IDSEF is leveling the playing field.
Join us.
At the Ira Dorsey Scholarship Endowment Fund, we’re not just providing scholarships — we’re investing in generational change. What began as a local scholarship effort to honor a powerful legacy has grown into a national movement for educational equity.
Lieutenant Colonel Ira Dorsey, the only AfricanAmerican graduate of the United States Military Academy Class of 1960, devoted his life to servant leadership and helping young people prepare for college.
Today, IDSEF continues that legacy. Through our work, we’ve awarded over $500,000 in scholarships to 292 students — and we’re just getting started.
When you sponsor IDSEF, you’re not simply supporting a program. You’re becoming part of a legacy that transforms communities one student at a time.
Company About Us
A foundation built on leadership. Powered by equity and opportunity.
The Ira Dorsey Scholarship Endowment Fund (IDSEF) was created to honor the life and vision of Lieutenant Colonel Ira Dorsey. He believed in lifting others as he climbed, and we continue that mission through a commitment to underrepresented students.
What started as a scholarship initiative has expanded into a nonprofit organization working year-round to bridge the education gap. We bring together donors, mentors, and academic partners to help students not just get to college — but thrive in it.
Through direct financial aid, structured guidance, and culturally relevant programming, we create a future where every student has a fair shot at success.
MISSION STATEMENT
IDSEF exists to close the education gap by providing scholarships, mentorship, and communitycentered support for promising underrepresented students.
We equip young people with the tools, resources, and encouragement they need to prepare for leadership through education and become changemakers in their communities.
VISION STATEMENT
We envision a world where education is a bridge to opportunity, not a barrier.
IDSEF is building a future where all students, regardless of background, can access the resources they need to thrive.
Our goal is educational equity, excellence, and sustained impact.
Our SPONSORSHIP Team
Meet the leadership team guiding IDSEF’s mission, raising resources, and investing in student success.
President, IDSEF
Development Chair, IDSEF Fundraising Co-Chair, IDSEF Leadership, Vision, and Fundraising Strategy
Community Outreach and Donor Relations
Dedicated educator and visionary leader. Dr. Evans ensures Ira’s legacy stays alive through bold programming and strong partnerships.
Community connector and tireless advocate for youth. Joe leads efforts to engage and grow our donor base.
Strategic Growth and Supporter Engagement
IT executive and mentor who helps shape our strategy and infrastructure to support students at scale.
Dr. Sid Evans Joe Ward Rob Blackwell
Annual Gala & Signature Events
Sponsorship with IDSEF means your brand is front and center in a story of legacy and impact.
Our Annual Scholarship Gala is a powerful evening of celebration, storytelling, and support.
We also host enriching community programs like our Oratorical Competition and the Annual Golf Tournament — events that educate, empower, and uplift.
Event HighlightS
Where Sponsors
Meet Scholars
Held each spring, the Ira Dorsey Scholarship Gala brings together students, sponsors, and leaders in one unforgettable night.
From heartfelt scholar testimonies to keynote addresses and scholarship presentations, this event is the heart of our fundraising and community connection efforts.
Event name : 2025 Ira Dorsey Scholarship Gala
date : June 29, 2025
LOCATION : Renaissance Hotel, Arlington, VA 36
Keynote topic :
Student Features :
Sponsor Exposure Opportunities :
Mentorship and legacy in action — building personal and collective impact for the next generation.
Scholar spotlights, video storytelling, and award presentations that showcase success and resilience.
Your brand will be featured on programs, signage, social media, and recap content. Sponsors receive recognition at the VIP reception, across event platforms, and through custom engagement opportunities.
Additional Events :
• IDSEF Oratorical Competition
Youth speak to legacy, justice, and leadership
• Annual Golf Tournament
Sponsorship includes signage, speaking roles, and player slots
WHY SPONSOR US
Support That Builds the Future
IDSEF gives your brand the opportunity to support what truly matters.
Sponsorship means visibility with purpose, access to future leaders, and a meaningful connection to an enduring legacy.
COMPANY BENEFITS
Partnership With Purpose. Support That Echoes for Years.
At IDSEF, sponsorship is a relationship. We work with each partner to ensure your impact is visible, recognized, and meaningful.
Whether you’re underwriting a scholarship, funding student programs, or co-creating an experience, we help your contribution shine.
Your logo will be featured on our website, printed event materials, signage, and digital outreach throughout the year.
Opportunities to speak, co-host events, or mentor students through IDSEF initiatives.
Engage with students, donors, and community leaders at our Gala, golf tournament, and other partnerfocused events.
Brand Visibility
Leadership Engagement Relationship Building
SPONSORSHIP levels
• Present scholarships at the reception (2 plaques)
• 4 invitations to the reception
• 4 Ball tickets
• 2 golf foursomes
• Logo on 8 signs at the Golf Tournament
• Corporate banner at all IDSEF events
• Logo on the IDSEF website (annual)
• No plaque presentation
• 2 invitations to the reception
• 2 Ball tickets
• 2 golf tickets
• Logo on 4 signs at the Golf Tournament
• Name listed at IDSEF events
• Logo on the IDSEF website (annual)
• Present scholarships at the reception (1 plaque)
• 2 invitations to the reception
• 2 Ball tickets
• 1 golf foursome
• Logo on 6 signs at the Golf Tournament
• Corporate banner at all IDSEF events
• Logo on the IDSEF website (annual)
• No plaque or reception invitation
• No Ball tickets
• 1 golf ticket
• Company name listed for 2 prize sponsorships
• Name listed at IDSEF events
• Logo on the IDSEF website (annual)
Each sponsorship level supports a student’s journey toward success.
Your commitment builds futures and strengthens a legacy rooted in service and excellence.
SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENT Form
Sponsor Name
Phone Number
Sponsorship Package Selected
Email Address Date
Authorized Signature
Acknowledgments
By completing this form, the sponsor agrees to support the Ira Dorsey Scholarship Endowment Fund at the selected sponsorship level.
Sponsorship benefits begin upon receipt of payment. A member of our team will follow up to confirm your preferences and finalize activation.
