Pioneering philanthropist and business leader Lowell Milken has established the American Dream Scholarship at Lipscomb University, a first-of-its-kind scholarship created to support undergraduate students studying political science, American studies, history and journalism who demonstrate academic excellence, civic engagement, leadership and a commitment to the pursuit of liberty as guided by strong ethical values.

Formally known as the American Dream Excellence Award, the scholarship is the first of its kind that Milken has established. It reflects his lifelong commitment to advancing opportunity, developing human potential and investing in education as a catalyst for positive change. Each selected recipient will receive a $10,000 scholarship.

“Lowell Milken’s generous investment in Lipscomb University students is a powerful affirmation of the promise and potential of the next generation of leaders,” said Lipscomb President Candice McQueen. “By establishing the American Dream Scholarship at Lipscomb, he is opening doors for students who are preparing to engage thoughtfully in public life, lead with character and contribute to the common good. We are deeply grateful for this meaningful gift, and for the confidence it represents in Lipscomb’s mission to prepare students for lives of purpose.”

The scholarship will support sophomore and junior political science, American studies, history and journalism majors whose academic work and personal aspirations reflect the ideals of the American Dream, including opportunity, prosperity, moral integrity and service to American society.

“I established the American Dream Scholarship at Lipscomb University because I believe deeply in the power of education to prepare young people to understand, preserve and strengthen the ideals that make opportunity possible,” said Milken. “Thoughtful civic leadership is more important than ever, and we are enthusiastic to support students who show promise in engaging seriously with the principles, institutions and responsibilities that shape our nation. Lipscomb’s commitment to academic excellence, faith, ethical leadership and service to the common good makes it an ideal place to support students who are preparing to lead with purpose and contribute to the future of American society.”

The inaugural recipients of the American Dream Scholarship for the 2026-27 academic year are:

• Arlie Akers, a sophomore political science: international relations and English (writing) major from Morton, Illinois.
• Amira Hawat Ferrera, a junior political science: international relations major from Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
• Ann Claire Lutz, a junior political science: pre-law major from Nashville.
• Ali Ibn-Malang, a sophomore political science major from Goodlettsville, Tennessee.
• Jonathan Powell, a sophomore political science major from Pickerington, Ohio.
• Maverick Harris, a sophomore political science: pre-law and philosophy major from Mount Juliet, Tennessee.

The recipients were selected through a competitive process that included an essay, academic transcript, letters of recommendation and an interview with Milken and his team. Applicants were evaluated based on academic merit, alignment with the scholarship’s themes and their potential to make a positive impact on American society.

“The American Dream Scholarship was a catalyst for the applicants to reflect on the ideas, institutions and responsibilities that shape our nation. The recipients stood out not only for their academics but also their connection with the American Dream,” said Marc Schwerdt, chair of Lipscomb’s Department of History, Politics and Philosophy. “These students articulated their own compelling visions of how hard work and purpose can contribute to both personal success and the common good. We are grateful for Lowell Milken’s generosity and for his investment in students who are preparing to serve their communities and country with wisdom and integrity.”

To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be current sophomores or juniors majoring in political science, American studies, history and journalismLipscomb University, hold a minimum 3.0 GPA and demonstrate an interest in in purposeful leadership in American society and the American Dream through academic, extracurricular or personal pursuits.

Milken’s contributions to education are transformative. In 1985, he founded the Milken Educator Awards, which has since been recognized as the premier teacher recognition and reward program. Over the past 39 years, the Milken Educator Awards have empowered more than 3,000 exceptional teachers across the United States. Building on this foundation, he established the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching, whose groundbreaking initiatives have elevated teacher effectiveness and student success, impacting millions nationwide. He has also established and nurtured 10 diverse philanthropic initiatives across education, art and culture, innovation, and social capital. Among them is the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, which works with K-12 students and educators around the world to uncover and share the stories of individuals who have profoundly shaped history. The American Dream Scholarship at Lipscomb University adds a new dimension to Milken’s legacy of investing in education and human potential.

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