Delores (DeDe) Duncan-White, Assistant Athletic Director of Academics for Student Athletes, U.S. Naval Academy, is a Women’s History Month maker on the move. Delores (DeDe) Duncan-White is in her nineteenth year of working at the United States Naval Academy. Prior to her current position, Duncan-White served in the U.S. Navy for 23 years. She achieved the rank of Commander (O-5) prior to her retirement in 2007.

Beyond her outstanding military and professional achievements, Duncan-White has also made remarkable strides in community service while fostering a spirit of family togetherness in the face of adversity.  Shelley C. White, Jr., a police officer and detective who worked over 20 years with the Annapolis Police Department, was Duncan-White’s late husband who passed away unexpectedly on May 22, 2015, at the age of 57.

A Mission to Honor
“The Shelley C. White, Jr. Memorial Scholarship was established in 2015 in memory of the late Shelley C. White, Jr. in honor of Shelley's dedication to his community, the foundation awards college scholarships to graduating seniors in Anne Arundel County,” said Duncan-White.

Shelley C. White, Jr., Delores (DeDe) Duncan-White, and  Shelley C. White, III. | Photo courtesy of Shelley C. White Jr. Memorial.

“Shelley had a huge personality and an even bigger heart.  He was deeply committed to his family and his community.  He was selfless in every aspect, always lending a helping hand to those in need and always being a presence in the lives of those less fortunate,” Duncan-White shared. “Shelley sought to bridge the gap and ease the tension between the community and law enforcement—an effort and impact that was felt across the city and beyond.” 

The Shelley C. White Jr. Memorial, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, allows Duncan-White and Shelley C. White Jr.’s son, Shelley C. White, III, to honor the life and legacy of White, Jr. Shelley C. White, III co-founder of the nonprofit, is a 2016 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy and was honorably discharged from the Navy back in 2023 after years of service.

“We believed a scholarship foundation was the best way to honor him (my husband) and continue the work he had done in this very community.  The financial expense of education is a huge hurdle that many at-risk youths encounter.  Being able to provide some recurring financial relief and support gives them the opportunity to pursue their goals and aspirations,” said Duncan-White.

Scholarship Impact and Deadline
More than 15 scholarships have been awarded over the past 10 years. 

“The scholarship can help cover first-year tuition, books, cost of living, and other miscellaneous expenses.  The amount range is somewhat pre-determined, but we have steadily increased the amount given to first-year recipients each year.  Scholarship awardees are also eligible to receive continued scholarship funding after completion of their first year upon completion of some requirements,” Duncan-White shared.

While there is no specific age requirement, applicants must be high school seniors within Anne Arundel County on track to graduate.  Any current high school senior in Anne Arundel County is eligible to apply.  The current application deadline is April 20, 2026.

Bull & Oyster Roast Fundraiser
The 2026 Scholarship Bull & Oyster Roast will be held on March 28, 2026, from 2:30- 6:00 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, located at 2 Pythian Drive, Edgewater, Maryland 21037.  Tickets are currently on sale.  All proceeds from the event go directly toward our annual scholarship supporting youth in Anne Arundel County achieving higher learning.

Shelley C. White, III explained that the Bull & Oyster Roast event is the nonprofit’s annual fundraising event. It is the main source for raising scholarship funds.

“This usually themed event is centered around positivity and coming together as one to support a great cause.  During the event, we have a DJ, food, live raffles and a live auction of gifts and memorabilia that have been graciously donated by members of the greater Annapolis community,” he said.

When individuals support the event, it also helps increase the value of the scholarship. Community members who cannot attend the in-person event can provide donations, sponsorships and even just spread the word about the scholarship event.  

“Being able to continue my husband’s legacy and work in the community has become a true passion.  Hearing how students organically come across the scholarship, learn about my husband and form a deep connection with the work he has done is what makes this all worth it,” said Duncan-White.
 

Visit https://www.shelleycwhitejrmemorial.com to obtain more information about the scholarship and upcoming fundraiser.