Atlanta, GA — The Kenneth Lockett Foundation officially launches today, established to honor the life and legacy of Kenneth Henry Lockett III by preparing the next generation of Georgia’s civic leaders. Through programs that center law, journalism, and public service, the Foundation will mentor and equip students with the experiences, mentorship, and resources they need to lead with integrity.
Its flagship program, the K.H. Lockett Truth and Justice Fellowship, will support one undergraduate student each summer through a paid, full-time placement at a mission-aligned host site in Atlanta. The Fellowship is designed to provide meaningful, real-world experience while grounding future leaders in civic responsibility and servant leadership.
The Foundation is named in honor of Kenneth Henry Lockett III, a rising leader whose life was cut short at age 22, just months before graduating from Georgia State University. Kenneth devoted himself to service in every arena he entered — from government to law to journalism. He clerked for the Henry County Board of Commissioners, interned at an Atlanta law firm, represented students in Georgia State’s Student Government Association, and later served as managing editor of Georgia State’s independent student newspaper, The Signal. Across all his roles, Kenneth believed leadership was a responsibility: to pursue truth, act justly, and serve constituents with humility.
“Great civic leadership doesn’t happen by accident — it’s built through experience, mentorship, and a commitment to community,” said Daniel Varitek, co-founder of The Kenneth Lockett Foundation. “Our mission is to ensure Georgia’s next generation of lawyers, journalists, and public servants has the tools and networks they need to lead with integrity.”
Applications for the inaugural Fellowship will open in December 2025, with the first Fellow announced in May 2026. The program will begin in summer 2026, with additional details about the host site to be announced this fall.
The Foundation is guided by an Advisory Board of accomplished civic and community leaders, all working to carry forward Kenneth’s vision for a more just and equitable Georgia.
About The Kenneth Lockett Foundation
The Kenneth Lockett Foundation is a nonprofit organization based in Atlanta, Georgia. Its mission is to honor the life and legacy of Kenneth Henry Lockett III by preparing the next generation of Georgia’s civic leaders. Through fellowships, projects, and partnerships, the Foundation invests in the future of law, journalism, and public service — ensuring that truth, justice, and servant leadership remain at the heart of Georgia’s progress.
Press Contact
Daniel Varitek
Founder and Chair, The Kenneth Lockett Foundation
press@lockett.foundation
www.lockett.foundation