Meet our Founder

Susan Johnson, founder of Support Our Scholars, knows firsthand the power of encouragement.

Growing up, Susan faced an unstable childhood that led her to leave high school before graduating. Marriage and motherhood came early, and with little guidance or support, the dream of further education seemed out of reach.

Then one person changed everything.

Susan met a woman who believed in her potential and chose to mentor her. With encouragement, guidance, and someone walking beside her, Susan returned to school, completed high school, and eventually earned her college degree.

That experience shaped the course of her life.

As Susan later built a successful business career, she never forgot how one mentor helped open doors she once believed were closed. She began to see many young women in her community facing similar challenges. They had the desire and ability to attend college but lacked the financial resources and mentorship needed to finish.

In 2004, Susan and six other women came together with a simple goal: help one disadvantaged young woman attend college. Together they committed to supporting her through all four years, providing not only financial assistance but mentorship, encouragement, and a community that believed in her future.

What began as support for one student continued to grow. Within a few years, more scholars were being supported and the impact expanded.

Today, what started small has grown into a program that celebrates nearly 150 graduates. That represents nearly 150 lives changed and nearly 150 families whose futures have been transformed through education, mentorship, and opportunity.

Susan now enjoys retirement in Sarasota. While she is no longer involved in the day to day operations, her vision and heart remain deeply woven into the story of Support Our Scholars.



What began with one woman believing in Susan continues today through every scholar given the opportunity to pursue her dreams. And with every graduate, another life, another family, and another future is forever changed.