The Porter Family Foundation Mission

The Porter Family Foundation is committed to closing the educational opportunity gap for students from underserved communities across Kentucky. We believe every student deserves access to the resources, support, and opportunities needed to achieve their full potential, regardless of their background. Through strategic investments in education, the Foundation supports initiatives that create pathways to academic and professional success. By partnering with students, educators, and community organizations, we are helping cultivate the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers throughout the Commonwealth.

Our Story

The Porter Family Foundation was founded by brothers Walter Porter II and William Porter to honor the legacy of their late mother, Janice Porter. A graduate of Fisk University in Nashville, Tennessee, Janice Porter returned to Louisville and became the first Black woman to earn a Master of Business Administration from the University of Louisville College of Business. Her remarkable accomplishments reflected her unwavering belief in the power of education and the opportunities it creates. She also understood that access to quality education and educational resources is not equally available to everyone.

Inspired by her lifelong commitment to learning, leadership, and service, Walter and William established The Porter Family Foundation to continue her legacy by helping remove barriers to educational attainment. Their vision is to ensure every student, regardless of circumstance, has access to the educational resources and opportunities needed to achieve their full potential.

Continuing the Legacy

In 2025, The Porter Family Foundation hosted its inaugural Bourbon & Bestow fundraiser, benefiting the Porter Scholars and the Porter Scholars in Medicine Program at the University of Louisville School of Medicine. Building on the success of its first year, the Foundation continues to invest in these initiatives while expanding its reach to support additional organizations and educational programs that serve underserved students throughout Louisville and across Kentucky.

Today, The Porter Family Foundation honors Janice Porter’s legacy by investing in students, strengthening educational pathways, and creating opportunities that empower future generations to succeed.