SCHOLARSHIPS

The Marlie Dru Sullivan Foundation is proud to offer two distinct scholarship opportunities for students across York County: The #LiveLikeMarlie Scholarship and The Marlie Dru Sullivan Dance Scholarship. Each program reflects a different aspect of Marlie’s legacy—her unwavering kindness and compassion and her deep love for dance and artistic expression.

Both scholarships are designed to recognize and support students who exemplify the values Marlie lived by and who are committed to making a positive impact in their communities. Whether through everyday acts of grace or the power of movement, these scholarships aim to uplift young people who carry Marlie’s light forward.

#LiveLikeMarlie Scholarship

The #LiveLikeMarlie Scholarship honors students across York County who embody the values that defined Marlie’s life: kindness, compassion, humility, inclusivity, and responsibility. This award supports students who lead with heart and strive to make a positive impact in their schools and communities.

Marlie Dru Sullivan Dance Scholarship

The Marlie Dru Sullivan Foundation Dance Scholarship is awarded to York County students of all ages who demonstrate exceptional dedication to the art of dance. This scholarship celebrates Marlie’s love for artistic expression and supports dancers pursuing further education or training in their craft.

2026 Scholarship Recipients

Ida Hall, is a #LiveLikeMarlie Scholarship recipient.Kindness, to Ida, is more than simple gestures. It is a way of living rooted in inclusivity, humility, compassion, and responsibility. Inspired by the love of Jesus, Ida strives to make others feel seen, valued, and supported in all that she does. Through various leadership roles and service experiences Ida learned to lead with purpose and serve with intention. These opportunities shaped Ida’s understanding that true leadership is about stepping forward in faith and loving others well. Ida plans to attend Anderson University in the fall to pursue a degree in Early Childhood Education.

Mackenzie DeCuir, is a #LiveLikeMarlie Scholarship recipient.

Mackenzie is a cancer survivor who was diagnosed with Stage 4 Neuroblastoma before her first birthday. She has faced lifelong challenges with resilience, grace, and gratitude. Her experiences have shaped her deep commitment to kindness, inclusivity, and compassion…driving her to ensure others feel seen, valued, and supported. Mackenzie plans to pursue a career in education at Furman University with a goal of creating a classroom rooted in positivity, encouragement, and self-worth.

Addison Blankinship, is a Marlie Dru Sullivan Dance Scholarship recipient.

Addison began dancing at the age of four and quickly discovered dance as a place where she could express herself and build confidence. What started as an outlet for a shy young girl grew into a defining part of her life. Through years of dedication, dance has taught her discipline, resilience, and the value of teamwork while also giving her a second family. Addison plans to attend the University of South Carolina and will be a member of the Coquette Dance Team, a student-led collegiate dance team, where she will continue her passion at the next level. Addison is committed to inspiring others and creating a positive, encouraging environment both on and off the stage.

Katie Ballard, is a Marlie Dru Sullivan Dance Scholarship receipent.

Katie has loved dance since she was young, finding both joy and purpose in movement from her very first steps. Over time, dance became more than a passion. It became a source of strength, helping her overcome personal challenges while helping her rediscover confidence during a difficult season in her life. She now shares that same passion by assisting and teaching at her studio. Katie is a rising Senior in high school and plans to attend Winthrop University in the Fall of 2027 to pursue a career in Dance Education. She is committed to creating a positive, uplifting environment where others feel seen, supported, and empowered.

2025 Scholarship Recipients

Kendyll Cherry is a dedicated dancer and student at Rock Hill High School with nine years of experience in styles including tap, hip hop, jazz, and contemporary. Kendyll’s passion for dance runs deep—she describes it as both her sanctuary and her spark. Through her powerful performances and original choreography, she uses movement as a voice for healing, connection, and storytelling. As a consistent award winner on the competitive circuit, Kendyll is known not only for her technical strength but also for her humility, leadership, and empathy. Kendyll strives to carry Marlie’s spirit forward every time she takes the stage.

Mary Allen Laws is an 8-year-old dancer whose dedication and joy light up every stage she steps onto. With five years of experience in jazz, tap, lyrical, and hip hop, she has performed in numerous competitions, recitals, and community events. Mary Allen’s passion for dance has been a source of confidence and self-expression, helping her grow through personal challenges and build lasting friendships. She dreams of performing a solo one day and inspiring others through movement. Mary Allen approaches every opportunity with heart, determination, and a contagious love for dance.

Leyna Stoneburner is a graduating senior from Clover High School who plans to pursue a degree in special education, beginning at USC Lancaster. Driven by a calling to serve others, Leyna has made it her mission to create inclusive and welcoming spaces for everyone—from mentoring campers at the YMCA to supporting peers with special needs at school. She lives out the values of kindness, compassion, humility, and responsibility every day. Leyna’s unwavering commitment to helping others and leading with heart makes her a shining example of what it means to Live Like Marlie.

Chloe Blair is a graduating senior from Westminster Catawba Christian School who plans to attend the University of South Carolina to study business and minor in dance. A longtime member of Step South Dance Company, Chloe leads by quiet example—uplifting her teammates, mentoring younger dancers, and embodying kindness and inclusivity in all she does. Her commitment to service is evident through her leadership in church, school, and community outreach. Chloe was also a close friend and teammate of Marlie’s and continues to honor her memory by loving with intention and leading with compassion. Chloe truly Lives Like Marlie in both heart and action.