The Howard E. Rollins Foundation was created as a result of Howard's induction into Baltimore's The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum in October 2006. His induction was based on his incredible talent as an actor and as the first African-American from Baltimore, Maryland, nominated for an Academy Award (for his performance as Coalhouse Walker, Jr. in Ragtime). He is perhaps best remembered as Detective Virgil Tibbs, in the long-running series In the Heat of the Night.

The Foundation's mission is to continue Howard's legacy by awarding scholarships and providing cultural and educational programs in the performing or film media arts for aspiring inner city, minority, and disadvantaged youth. It is the Foundation's firm belief that youth in our culture interested in the performing or film media arts should be encouraged and supported.

The Howard E. Rollins Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. For more information call (410) 580-1111.