CLEVELAND - The McLendon Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2026 Postgraduate Scholarship Program, continuing its mission to cultivate the next generation of sports leaders through access, mentorship, and opportunity. Now in its 26th year, the McLendon Foundation has awarded more than $1.75 million in scholarships to graduate students pursuing careers across the sports industry. Each year, the McLendon Foundation awards seven (7) $10,000 postgraduate scholarships, with additional opportunities supported through key partnerships.  The program continues to prioritize creating opportunities for historically excluded communities in sport, with full eligibility criteria available on the McLendon Foundation website. 

The 2026 Class of McLendon Scholars will be selected through a competitive, multi-phase review process that evaluates academic performance, leadership potential, experience, and a demonstrated commitment to advancing innovation and positive change within the sports and entertainment industry. The selection process will conclude in early summer, with the new class of twelve (12) scholars announced shortly thereafter. 

CLICK HERE to apply for the 2026 McLendon Postgraduate Scholarship. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 PM PST on February 1, 2026. Application questions can be directed to mclendonfoundation@gmail.com. 

Through the support of our generous partners, the Foundation continues to expand its reach and increase the amount of scholarship funding provided since its inception.
 
The Fiesta Sports Foundation's endowment commitment supports one scholarship each year for a student affiliated with an Arizona-based four-year institution. The CIAA-McLendon Scholarship continues to provide support for graduates of CIAA member institutions pursuing advanced degrees in sport.
 
Building on the success of its academic partnership, the Mark H. McCormack Department of Sport Management at UMass Amherst will now offer two (2) fully funded McLendon-McCormack Scholarships, doubling the number of scholars selected for the nation's top-ranked sport management graduate program.
 
About the McLendon Foundation 
Established in 1999, the McLendon Foundation honors Hall of Fame coach John McLendon, a trailblazer who broke barriers in basketball, education, and civil rights. Guided by his core values of Integrity, Education, Leadership, and Mentorship, the Foundation empowers future sports leaders through scholarships, mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities that build community and ignite dreams.