Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) proudly celebrates two outstanding students — Carlos Watkins, a junior at Memphis East High School, and Pragna Rajashekar, a senior at White Station High School — for being named 2025 Keepers of the Dream by the National Civil Rights Museum.
The prestigious honor recognizes students who embody the ideals of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. through leadership, community service, and a commitment to social justice. Carlos and Pragna are two of the three students chosen to receive the award this year.
Carlos has long been an advocate for his peers and his community. A Tennessee DECA State Officer representing more than 8,500 students across the state, Carlos is also the founder of Operation Purple House, a youth-led initiative based in the Carpenter Art Garden in Binghampton that promotes mentorship, volunteerism, and neighborhood improvement. He hopes to pursue a career in law and public policy, and one day serve his city in a public office.
His leadership and service clearly made an impression: Carlos received more than 21 nominations for the award from people across his community, including members of his church, coworkers, and school staff.
Reflecting on his work, Carlos said, “Founding Operation Purple House came from a deeply personal place. The narrative of Memphis youth is often shaped by doubt and skepticism, and when people questioned our qualifications or our ambition, it only fueled my determination. I wanted to prove that we could transform those challenges into meaningful change, and that’s exactly what Operation Purple House is all about: empowering young people to lead and create impact in our community.”
Pragna is equally committed to service and advocacy. She founded Caring Hands of Tennessee, a student-led organization that provides healthcare resources to rural communities. She also expanded the effort into an international student-run newspaper that amplifies youth voices and promotes civic engagement. In addition to her service work, Pragna has engaged with state policymakers on issues such as gun violence prevention and youth empowerment.
Both students will receive recognition at the Freedom Award Student Forum on Thursday, October 16, 2025, including a Keeper of the Dream trophy, a National Civil Rights Museum Family Membership for one year, and a $500 award.
Carlos said the award “is a reminder that ‘We are the Leaders of Today and Tomorrow.’”
MSCS congratulates both of these Present & Future Leaders for their compassion and dedication to keeping Dr. King’s dream alive. Their achievements reflect the excellence and promise of students across our district.
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