_edited.jpg){kind=small}
CHICAGO AREA NONPROFIT · EST. IN HONOR OF DAVID MEBUKE
Opening Doors for Immigrant Law Students
The David Mebuke Foundation provides scholarships, mentorship, and community to first-generation and immigrant students pursuing careers in law — because talent shouldn't be stopped by a border or a bank account.
WATCH OUR STORY
THE PROBLEM WE'RE SOLVING
The System Was Not Built for Them
Immigrant and first-generation law students don't just face high tuition — they face a legal and financial system that excludes them at every turn. These aren't individual hardships. They are structural barriers, and they compound.
BARRIER #1
Federally Locked Out
DACA and undocumented students are explicitly barred from all federal financial aid — no Pell Grants, no subsidized loans, no work-study programs. The most common funding pipeline is legally closed before they even apply.
BARRIER #2
Private Loans Require a Citizen Co-Signer
Most private lenders require a U.S. citizen or permanent resident co-signer. For students whose families are abroad or lack U.S. credit history, this disqualifies them from the only remaining loan option entirely.
The average law school scholarship covers less than half of total attendance costs. With tuition exceeding $60,000 per year at many schools, immigrant students are left with a six-figure gap and no system to bridge it.
Institutional Aid Doesn't Close the Gap
BARRIER #3
Many immigrant students are the first in their family to enter a U.S. professional institution. Without inherited wealth, a U.S. professional network, or family resources, a single unexpected setback can end their legal education for good.
No Generational Safety Net
BARRIER #4
Direct Scholarships
HOW DMF RESPONDS
Mentorship Network
Community & Belonging
No-strings funding that fills the gap federal and institutional aid leave behind — disbursed directly to scholars with no bureaucratic barriers.
Connections to attorneys and alumni who navigated the same barriers and came out the other side — ready to guide, advocate, and open doors.
A foundation of scholars, supporters, and advocates who show up when the system doesn't — because no one should navigate law school alone.
GET INVOLVED
How Would You Like to Help?
I'm a Student
Are you an immigrant or first-generation student pursuing a legal career? Apply for our scholarship and join a community of scholars who understand your journey.
I Want to Donate
Your contribution directly funds a scholar's path to the bar. Even a small gift creates outsized impact for students who have no other financial safety net.
My Organizations Wants to Sponsor
Are you an immigrant or first-generation student pursuing a legal career? Apply for our scholarship and join a community of scholars who understand your journey.
OUR STORY
Born From Loss.
Driven by Purpose.
"After losing my father during college and working multiple jobs to afford law school, it was the compassion and belief of early supporters that made my dream of becoming an attorney possible. The David Mebuke Foundation carries forward that same spirit."
As a first-generation immigrant from the Republic of Georgia, Keti Wade experienced firsthand the barriers that immigrant students face. The David Mebuke Foundation is her father's living legacy — and her commitment that no student should face those barriers alone.
Keti Wade
Founder & Executive Director
GET INVOLVED
Upcoming Events
1
Aug
2026
ANNUAL FUNDRAISER
5th Annual Tennis & Pickleball Fundraiser
A fun, competitive day on the courts — all proceeds benefit DMF scholars. Players, spectators, and sponsors welcome.
22
Oct
2026
ANNUAL GALA
2026 DMF Annual Scholarship Gala
Our signature evening celebrating our scholars and supporters — dinner, awards, and community.
