LEXINGTON, Ky. — Mayor Linda Gorton announced the recipients of the 2026 "Be the Change" Scholarship Program on Wednesday morning at the Government Center Lobby, highlighting a partnership aimed at supporting students pursuing careers in public safety and criminal justice.

The scholarship offers individual awards of up to $10,000 for a single academic year that can be used at Kentucky colleges or universities. The program targets students of color pursuing careers in fields related to criminal justice, public safety and gun violence prevention.

One Lexington Director Devine Carama joined Mayor Gorton at the announcement, along with representatives of the Blue Grass Community Foundation, Galls, and Central Bank. ONE Lexington, a city initiative dedicated to reducing violence in all neighborhoods, administers the scholarship program in partnership with the civic and corporate partners.

Awards are based on academic merit and achievements such as leadership, excellence in arts or sports, or volunteer activities benefiting the community. The goal of the scholarship is to provide opportunities for students of color, while helping address racial disparities within the criminal justice system.

ONE Lexington works with the community to create initiatives and programs for youth and young adults that enhance safety and quality of life in neighborhoods experiencing violent crime. The city has reduced community violence by 60% since 2021, according to the organization's 2025 annual report.

The "Be the Change" scholarship was established by ONE Lexington to empower students pursuing careers in underrepresented professions and strengthen community safety and equity. Blue Grass Community Foundation, founded in 1967, connects charitable individuals, families, businesses, communities and nonprofit organizations with causes they care about to meet community needs.