Southmoreland High School

2019-2020 Horatio Alger State Scholarship - CLOSED

Open to all public school students in their senior year of high school who have faced and overcome great obstacles in their young life.

Deadline: Online by 5 p.m. EST October 25

Requirements/Criteria:

• Be enrolled full time as a high school senior in the United States; be progressing normally toward graduation in spring/summer of 2020 with plans to enter college in the United States no later than the fall following graduation
• Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree at an accredited non-profit or private institution in the United States (students ay start their studies at a two-year institution and then transfer to a four-year institution)
• Demonstrate critical financial need ($55,000 or lower adjusted gross family income in required)
• Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities
• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity
• Maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0
• Be a United States citizen

Amount of Scholarship: Up to $10,000 each

For application and additional information, click here.

Posted: September 16, 2019

2019-2020 Horatio Alger National Scholarships - CLOSED

Open to all public school students in their senior year of high school.

Deadline: Online by 5 p.m. October 25, 2019

Requirements/Criteria:

• Be enrolled full time as a high school senior in the United States; be progressing normally toward graduation in spring/summer of 2020 with plans to enter college in the United States no later than the fall following graduation
• Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor’s degree at an accredited non-profit or private institution in the United States (students ay start their studies at a two-year institution and then transfer to a four-year institution)
• Demonstrate critical financial need ($55,000 or lower adjusted gross family income in required)
• Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities
• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity
• Maintain a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0
• Be a United States citizen
• Students must attend the National Scholars Conference to receive the award

Amount of Scholarship: $25,000 to 106 individuals

For application and additional information, click here

Posted: September 16, 2019

PGA Scholarship Fund (Sponsored by Western PA Golf Association) - CLOSED

Open to club employees in the clubhouse, golf shop, golf course, swimming pool and tennis courts. Persons who have been employed by Member Clubs of the Western PA Golf Association for at least two (2) seasons are eligible to apply.

Deadline: November 30, 2019

Criteria: Recipients will be evaluated based on:

• Financial need
• Academic performance
• Extracurricular activities
• Employment at a WPGA Member Club

Amount of Scholarship: Approximately $16,000 over four (4) years; renewable up to four (4) years or until graduation, whichever comes first. Scholarship recipients must maintain a 2.8 GPA, per term, to renew the scholarship

Posted: September 16, 2019

Berkshire Hathaway Home Services - CLOSED

Dream...Innovate...Grow Scholarship

Deadline: January 3, 2020 at 5 p.m., emailed to Scholarships@TPRSold.com

Eligibility:

• High school senior residing in either Fayette or Westmoreland County
• Minimum 3.0/4.0 Cumulative GPA
• Nominee shall be evaluated upon all academic work completed throughout the first semester of their senior year in high school
• Intends to become a full-time student (minimum 12 credits) at a college, university or trade school in the Fall 2020 term
• Perform with distinction in terms of leadership, volunteerism, character and positive attitude serving as an example to fellow students as a participant in community, charity and school-related activities

Amount of Scholarship: $1,000 (renewable for four years, as long as a 3.25 GPA is maintained) Three (3) awards will be given

Application and Information: 

Download application here, or through the Google Classroom.

Pick up a copy in the Counseling Office

Posted Date: October 15, 2019

PA American Legion 85th Annual Essay Contest - CLOSED

Sponsored by the Pennsylvania American Legion

Deadline: January 17, 2020, submitted to your local post

Eligibility: Any students enrolled in grades 9-12 in Pennsylvania

Amount of Scholarship: Multiple awards will be given:

1st Place: $3,500 Scholarship, plaque, trip to the PA American Legion Convention in July

2nd Place: $3,000 Scholarship, plaque

3rd Place: $2,500 Scholarship, plaque

Application and Information:

• No application is required
• Entry must be submitted to local post. Find you local post here. 
• Contest Rules 

Posted Date: October 21, 2019

High School Oratorical Scholarship Program - CLOSED 

Sponsored by the Pennsylvania American Legion

Deadline: December 7, 2019, to your local post (www.legion.org)

Eligibility: Student under the age of 20 years on April 17, 2020

• Must be enrolled in a high school
• Must either live in/ or attend school in PA. 
• Review the 2020 Rules and Regulations

Amount of Scholarship: $1,000 (renewable for up to four years, as long as student maintains a 3.25 GPA) Three (3) awards available

Application and information:

• Download Application
• Google Classroom
• Pick up a copy in the Counseling Office

Posted Date: October 21, 2019

ELKS Most Valuable Student - CLOSED

Sponsored by The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks

Deadline: November 5, 2019

Eligibility: Current high school senior who is a United States citizen (permanent legal resident status does not qualify), who is pursuing a four-year degree on a full-time basis. Applicants do not need to be related to an ELKS member.

Requirements/Criteria: Scholarship, leadership and financial need

Amount of Scholarship:

• 1rst Place: Two (2) $50,000 scholarships ($12,500 per year)
• 2nd Place: Two (2) $40,000 scholarship ($10,000 per year)
• 3rd Place: Two (2) $30,000 Jack London scholarships ($7,500 per year)
• Runners Up: Fourteen (14) $20,000 scholarships ($5,000 per year)
• Semi-Finalists: (480) $4,000 scholarships ($1,000 per year)

Application and Information: Apply online here

Posted Date: October 21, 2019

ELKS Legacy Awards - CLOSED

Sponsored by The Benevolent and Protective Order of the Elks

Deadline: January 31, 2020 at 11:50 a.m. Central Time

Eligibility:

• College-bound high school seniors who are children, grandchildren, stepchild or step-grandchild or legal ward of a living Elk who joined the order on or before April 1, 2017, or a charter member of the Lodge that was instituted on/after April 1, 2017
• Elk must be a paid-up member through March 31, 2020
• Great-grandchildren are not eligible

Requirements/Criteria:

• High school senior
• Only online applications will be accepted
• If applicant's parent and grandparent are both Elk members, applicant must apply through the parent's lodge.
• Must take SAT or ACT in time to receive the scores before the application deadline

Amount of Scholarship: Up to $4,000

Application and Information: Apply online

Posted date: October 18, 2019

AXA Achievement Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by AXA Achievement

Deadline: December 15, 2019

Eligibility: High school seniors

Requirements/Criteria: 

• Active in the community
• Led a project that benefits others
• Overcome personal challenges

Amount of Scholarship: $1.4 million worth of scholarships will be awarded in the amounts of: $2,500. $10,000 and $25,000. A winner will be awarded in every state, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico.

Application and Information:

For more information and to apply, click here

Posted Date: October 18, 2019

Prudential Spirit of Community - CLOSED

Sponsored by Prudential in Partnership with NAASP

Deadlines:

November 5, 2019: Student application deadline

November 15, 2019: Deadline for school and officially designated local organizations to certify Local Honorees and two runners-up for state-level judging

February 4, 2020: Judging results announced by NASSP and Prudential

May 2, 2020: National recognition events in Washington, D.C.

Eligibility/Criteria: 

• A student enrolled in grades 5-12 as of November 5, 2019
• Be a legal resident of any U.S. state or Washington, D.C.
• Have participated in a volunteer activity at least in part after September 1, 2019
• Submit a completed online application to a school principal or the head of a county 4-H organization, Girl Scout Council, American Red Cross Chapter, YMCA or Points of Light Global Network member by November 5, 2019

Amount of Scholarship:

Local Honorees receive a Certificate of Achievement from their schools or organization

State-Level Honorees receive an award of $1,000, a silver medallion and an all-expense-paid trip with a parent or guardian to Washington, D.C. for national recognition events.

National Honorees receive an additional award of $5,000, a gold medallion, a trophy for their school or organization and a $5,000 grant from The Prudential Foundation for a nonprofit charitable organization of their choice.

Application and Information: For more information or to apply, click here.

Posted Date: October 21, 2019

PSSDAR Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by the PA State Society Daughters of the American Revolution

Deadline: February 15, 2020, applications will only be accepted online

Eligibility/Requirements:

• High school senior
• Based on academic excellence, commitment to the field of study and/or financial need, or other restrictions on specific scholarships
• Eligible for only ONE scholarship from NSDAR
• Complete application including Financial Need Form
• Copy of acceptance letter to the college or university you will be attending in the fall
• School Recommendation Form to be completed by the Principal or School Counselor
• Two (2) personal letters of reference (non-relatives, in addition to school recommendation)
• Personal essay - see application topic
• Student resume
• Official high school transcript
• Results of SAT/ACT
• Signature of Chapter Regent or Chapter Scholarship Chairman

Amount of Scholarship: Varies

Application and Information: For more information or to apply, click here.

Posted Date: October 21, 2019

Epilepsy Foundation Western/Central PA - CLOSED

Deadline: April 1, 2020

Eligibility/Criteria: 

• Graduating high school seniors (Class of 2020) with a diagnosis of epilepsy/seizure disorder (confirmed by statement from applicant's physician)
• Provide proof of acceptance to a post-secondary academic or vocational program
• Attend school full time in the 2020-2021 school year
• Be a legal resident of Western/Central PA
• Must attend at least one of the EAWCP's Run/Walks in Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Altoona or Erie
• Do NOT staple of fold paper work. Use a paper clip or binder clip to secure pages and place them in a large envelope
• Awards will be based on the quality of applications through a competitive scoring system that balances needs with achievement. The Epilepsy Association of Western/Central PA reserves the right to determine the number of scholarships given.

Amount of Scholarship: Ten (10) scholarships worth $1,500 will be awarded to the three (3) students with the highest combined scores and the remaining recipients will receive $1,000 each. These are one-time awards.

Application Information: Download here or through the Class of 2020 Google Classroom , or pick up a copy in the Counseling Office.

Posted Date: October 25, 2019

Jim Borden Memorial Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by the Total Trib Media

Deadline: December 31, 2019

Eligibility: 

• Must be enrolled in an accredited four-year college or university with a major in Journalism, English Writing or Communications and remain in the approved course of study through graduation
• Primary residence must be in the Pittsburgh region including, but not limited to Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Westmoreland or Washington counties
• Must maintain a minimum cumulative 3.25 GPA on a 4.0 scale
• Must complete summer internship(s) at Trib Total Media

Requirements/Criteria: 

• Letter of Application addressed to Jim Borden Memorial Selection Committee stating intent to apply for the scholarship
• Application
• Copy of acceptance letter or proof of current enrollment in an accredited 4-year college or university
• Transcript
• Three (3) letters of recommendation - can not be written by family members
• Three (3) to five (5) samples, can be written work, photos or video
• Participate in a personal interview
• Complete a writing, spelling and general knowledge exam

Amount: Recipients will receive up to $30,000 in scholarship funds awarded in annual installments of up to $7,500 each. Recipients will also receive a summer internship and upon graduation, an offer of full-time employment

Application and Information: View application here. To apply online, click here.

Posted Date: November 1, 2019

John F. Kennedy Profile in Courage Essay Contest - CLOSED

Deadline: January 17, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. EST

Eligibility: 

• Open to all U.S. High School students in grades 9 - 12
• Employees of John Hancock Financial Services and members of their families are not eligible to participate

Requirements/Criteria:

• Essays can be no more than 1,000 words but must be a minimum of 700 words
• Citations and bibliography are not included in the word count
• Essays must be an original work of the student
• John F. Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedy and Edward M. Kennedy are NOT eligible subjects
• Essays must describe an act of political courage by a U.S. elected official who served during or after 1917, the year John F. Kennedy was born. Selected official may have addressed an issue at the local, state or national level.
• Essays about past recipients of the Profile in Courage Award will be disqualified unless they describe an act of political courage, other than the act for which the award was given
• Essays about the senators in Profile in Courage will be disqualified
• Essays must have a minimum of five (5) sources

Amount of Scholarship: $100 - $10,000 (total of 15 awarded)

Application and Information:

Click here for more information and to complete the application.

Posted Date: December 3, 2019

Imagine America Scholarship

Deadline: December 31, 2020

Please be sure to notify Mrs. Hanford if applying. She will need to approve your application.

Eligibility: 

• High School seniors graduating in 2020 and planning to attend a career school participating in the Imagine America High School Scholarship Program. For a complete list of participating schools, click here.
• GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Financial need
• May be asked to demonstrate voluntary community service

Amount of Scholarship: $1,000

Application and Information: Apply online at Imagine America Scholarship and follow the directions below.

1. To apply for an Imagine America Scholarship, you must become an Imagine America member Sign up here.

2. Click the "Create an Account" button to have access to the scholarships. Select the "Student" option. Follow the screen prompts to access your profile.

3. After creating your account, complete your profile. You MUST fill out your profile before applying for a scholarship. If your high school is not listed, you may add the high school by filling out the information as prompted.

4. Once you have completed your profile, search for scholarships by using the "Scholarship Program" and "State" filters

5. Review and apply for your scholarship. Make sure to watch the entire Financial Planning Made Simple (FPMS) video. Scholarship applications will only be approved if the applicant has viewed the FPMS video from start to finish.

6. Once you have completed these steps, notify Mrs. Hanford that you have applied. Check your application status by clicking "My Applications" tab on the left navigation bar.

Posted Date: December 3, 2019

WACE National Co-op Scholarship Program - CLOSED

Deadline: Must be postmarked by February 15, 2020

Eligibility/Criteria: 

• Cumulative high school GPA of 3.5 or better on a 4.0 scale
• Apply for the 2020-2021 academic year at one fo the WACE Partner Institutions listed below (* denotes deadline extensions)
  • Clarkson University *
  • Drexel University *
  • Johnson & Wales University *
  • Rochester Institute of Technology
  • Merrimack College *
  • State University of New York (SUNY) Oswego *
  • The University of Toledo
  • University of Cincinnati
  • Wentworth Institute of Technology
• Application with essay
• Meet other merit scholarship criteria as established by the institutions selected on the application
• Recipients will be notified between March and May 2020

Amount of Scholarship: Varies, but most are renewable for the four years.

Application and Information: Online essay and application can be completed here.

Posted Date: December 3, 2019

The Coolidge Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by The Calvin Coolidge Presidential Foundation

Deadline: Thursday, January 16, 2020 at 5 p.m. EST

Eligibility/Criteria: High School JUNIORS only! (Class of 2021)

• Must plan to enroll full time at an accredited college/university as an undergraduate for the first time in the Fall 2021
• Must be a citizen or legal permanent resident of the United States
• Covers a student's tuition, room, board and expenses for four years of undergraduate study; may be used at any accredited college or university in the U.S.
• Selection based primarily on academic excellence and then by public policy interest, appreciation for an understanding of the values President Coolidge championed, as well as humility and service.

Amount of Scholarship:

• Full Ride Scholarship: Tuition, room, board and expenses for four years of undergraduate study at an accredited college/university in the United States.
• Finalist Scholarship: Applicants who make it to the finalist level, but do not win the full scholarship, will receive a one-time scholarship of $5,000.

Application and Information: For more information, visit the website at www.coolidgescholars.org.

Posted Date: December 3, 2019

Westmoreland Columbus 500 Merit Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by Westmoreland Columbus 500

Deadline: Materials must be postmarked by January 17, 2020, and sent to:

Mr. Art Fronzaglio, Westmoreland Columbus 500 Merit Scholarship Committee, 405 4th Street, Donora, PA 15033

Eligibility:

• Current high school seniors residing in Westmoreland County
• Plan to attend an accredited U.S. four-year college/university
• Must have at least one parent on Italian descent

Requirements/Criteria:

• Official application
• Letters of Recommendation from two (2) teachers
• SAT Scores
• Official high school transcript

Amount of Scholarship: (1) $4,000; (1) $2,000; and (2) $1,000 will be awarded, one time

Application and Information: 

Available in the Counseling Office, in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom or download the application here. 

Posted Date: December 3, 2019

National Federation of the Blind Association - CLOSED

Sponsored by the NFB of PA

Deadline: Postmarked by March 31, 2020

Eligibility/Requirements:

• Current high school seniors who are legally blind
• Plan to attend college in the 2020-2021 academic year

Amount of Scholarship

• 30 National scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $12,000
• NFB of PA also offers two (2) college scholarships of $1,000 each

Application and Information:

• Click here to download the National Scholarship Application
• Click here to download the State Scholarship Application

Posted Date: January 14, 2020

Malcolm M. Prine WPFOA Scholarship Fund - CLOSED

Deadline: March 31, 2020

Student is responsible to mail completed application to:

Margaret Prine Joy

630 Oliver Building, 535 Smithfield Street

Pittsburgh, PA 15222

joy@mmsrjfamilylaw.com

(412) 471-9900

Eligibility: High school varsity football athletes at schools in Western PA where the WPFOA members officiate

Requirements/Criteria: 

• Awards based on financial need, scholarship and citizenship
• Must have played varsity football in high school
• Do NOT have a plan to play football in college
• Funds available for any accredited post-high school 
• High School Transcript and SAT Scores
• Two letters of recommendation - one from a member of the academic staff and one from a member of the athletic staff
• Copy of acceptance letter from the institution you are going to attend, if available

Amount of Scholarship: $14,000 each ($3,500 per semester for first four (4) semesters)

Application:

Applications are available in the Counseling Office, on SHS Website, or by clicking here.

Posted Date: January 14, 2020

Pittsburgh Metropolitan Area Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Foundation

Sponsored by PMAHCC Foundation Scholarship Program

Deadline: Must be received at PMAHCCF office, via email or mail by April 30, 2020

Eligibility: High school seniors residing in, or having certain and established plans to reside in Fayette or Westmoreland counties. May re-apply annually.

Requirements/Criteria: 

• Currently attend, enroll in or accepted into an accredited post-high school educational institution, including 2 or 4 year college/ university/ vocational, technical or trade school in the U.S. or its territories.
• Demonstrate unmet financial need of at least $1,000 after the financial aid award package has been determined. 
• Have at least one parent of Hispanic ancestry (at least one of applicant's grandparents must be Hispanic)
• Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Enroll as a full-time student
• Community involvement required
• Application with transcript and essay

Amount of Scholarship: Up to $2,000

Application and Information are available in the SHS Counseling Office, in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom or by download here.

Posted Date: January 14, 2020

Mid Penn Bank Anna Woodside Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by Mid Penn Bank and Scottdale Bank & Trust

Deadline: Postmarked by March 6, 2020 to: Mid Penn Bank, Anna Woodside Scholarship, 2407 Park Drive, Harrisburg, PA 17110. 

**Must let Mrs. Hanford know you are applying in order to complete Counselor portion of application.**

Eligibility: 

• Current high school seniors residing in Mid Penn Bank Service Area
• Must enroll full time in an accredited college, university or vocational-technical school in the U.S. for the fall term of 2020-2021 school year
• Employees of Mid Penn Bank and their immediate family members are not eligible to apply.
• Need not be a Mid Penn Bank customer
• Requirements/Criteria:
• Official application
• Official high school transcript
• Community service list
• SAT Scores
• Essay

Amount of Scholarship: (3) $1,000

Application and Information:

Applications are available at the SHS Counseling Office, Class of 2020 Google Classroom and for download here.

Posted Date: January 15, 2020

Owen M. Katz High School Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by The Pittsburgh Golden Triangle Chapter of ASM International

Deadline: February 20, 2020, postmarked or email 

Applications can be emailed to: parag_bedekar@comcast.net

or mailed to:

Hydro Carbide Tool Company

Attn: Parag R. Bedekar

ASM Student Awareness Committee Chair

4439 State Route 982

Latrobe, PA 15650

Eligibility: High School seniors who wishes to pursue a career in the metals or materials field and enrolls in a related college program

Requirements:

• Application
• Essay

Application Availability:

Applications are available in the SHS Counseling Office, Class of 2020 Google Classroom or download here.

Posted Date: January 14, 2020

Jane A. Yuhouse Memorial Scholarship

Sponsored by the Scottdale Historical Society 

Deadline: April 20, 2020. Turned in to Mrs. Hanford

Eligibility: Graduating high school senior sharing similar interests and values as Mrs. Yuhouse and continue their education in one of the following fields:

• Culinary Arts
• Environmental Sciences (conservation, park services, parks & recreation, etc.)
• Social Sciences (geographical sciences)
• Health & Human Service (social work, child development, counseling, case worker, child abuse worker, etc.)

Requirements/Criteria:

• Application with essay
• Three (3) letters of recommendation
• Copy of acceptance letter from college/ trade/ university you will be attending
• Transcript
• Current photo
• 3.0 Overall GPA

Amount of Scholarship: Up to $1,000

Application and Information:

The application is available in the SHS Counseling Office, in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom or by clicking here. If you are unable to download and print the application, contact Mrs. Hanford by email.

Posted Date: January 15, 2020

 Westmoreland County School Nurse Association Memorial Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by Westmoreland County School Nurse Association

Deadline: February 28, 2020

Eligibility: High School Senior entering a nursing program with a minimum 3.0 GPA, which prepares an individual to become a registered nurse

Requirements/Criteria:

• Academic achievement; extracurricular activities; community service
• Leadership role
• Career goals
• Honors/awards
• Two Letters of Recommendation - one must be from a professional school staff member
• Copy of a letter of acceptance identifying the intent to be a nursing major from a college, university or school of nursing
• Scholarship Essay - 500 word minimum, typed
• Transcript including first semester grades and SAT scores

Amount of Scholarship: $750

Application and Information: Application and additional information are available on the Class of 2020 Google Classroom, in the Counseling Office or can be downloaded here.  

Posted Date: January 27, 2020

Samuel S. Hicks Memorial Scholarship - DEADLINE EXTENDED

Sponsored by the Samuel S. Hicks Fund

Deadline: Turn into the Counseling Office by April 24, 2020

Eligibility:

• Current Southmoreland High School Senior
• Must be in the top 20 percent of the Class of 2020
• Active community service through the school, church and/or civic organizations

Requirements/Criteria:

• Completed application
• One-page letter of reference
• Copy of acceptance letter from college/university you will be attending
• Current transcript and senior report card
• One-page essay explaining why the board should honor your request

Amount of Scholarship: $1,000

Application & Information: The application is available in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom, in the Counseling Office, or download here.

Posted Date: February 14, 2020

Women in Nuclear (WIN) Chapter, Westinghouse Electric Company Scholarship - CLOSED

Deadline: March 13, must be submitted to WINscholarship@westinghouse.com

Eligibility: Female high school senior, graduating in Spring 2020

Requirements/Criteria: 

• Must intend to pursue a bachelor's degree in engineering, mathematics or physical sciences at an accredited college/ university
• Personal essay
• Application with official transcript
• If student is eligible to apply for Westinghouse 2020 Family Scholarship, he/she is unable to apply for this scholarship.

Amount of Scholarship: $2,500

Deadline Schedule:

• December 20, 2019 - Application available online
• March 13, 2020 - Electronic submission deadline for application
• April 20, 2020 - Applicants notified of scholarship committee decision

Application & Information: Application is available in the Counseling Office, Class of 2020 Google Classroom, or can be downloaded and printed here. 

Posted Date: February 14, 2020

Westmoreland Area Nurses Association Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by Westmoreland Area Nurses Association

Deadline: April 15, 2020 **Postmark will be checked**

Eligibility: High school seniors pursuing a nursing education leading to an R.N.

Requirements/Criteria:

• Application
• Letter of admission to an accredited nursing program (photocopies permissible)
  • Without a letter of admissions, individuals cannot be considered for this scholarship
• Letters of recommendation - please see application for specifics 
• School Counselor report
  • Please give your counselor a minimum of 2 days notice to complete their portion of the application. It is your responsibility to be aware of deadlines and to be timely.
• Personal statement
• Official transcript with grades, class rank and attendance

Amount of Scholarship: $500 per year, up to two years ($1,000 total)

Application & Information: Application is available in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom, in the Counseling Office, or for download here.

Posted Date: February 14, 2020

Westmoreland County School Nurse Association Memorial Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by Westmoreland County School Nurse Association

Deadline: February 28, 2020

Eligibility: High School Senior entering a nursing program with a minimum 3.0 GPA, which prepares an individual to become a Registered Nurse

Requirements/Criteria: 

• Academic achievement; extracurricular activities; community service
• Leadership role
• Career goals
• Honors/awards
• Two letters of recommendation - one must be from a professional school staff member
• Copy of letter of acceptance identifying the interest to be a nursing major for a college, university or school of nursing
• Scholarship Essay - 500-word minimum, typed
• Transcript, including first semester grades, and SAT scores

Amount of Scholarship: $750

Application & Information: Available in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom; in the Counseling Office or downloaded here.

Posted Date: January 17, 2020

Penn State Club of Westmoreland County Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by Penn State University Alumni Association

Deadline: Received by Scholarship Committtee by March 31, 2020 **To be mailed by student**

Eligibility: High school seniors who have been accepted, and will be attending, The Pennsylvania State University during the 2020 academic year.

Requirements/Eligibility: 

• Graduating seniors in the top 20 percent of their class
• Completed application, three (3) letters of recommendation, personal photograph
• Personal letter outlining goals, as well as explaining his/her reason for choosing Penn State
• Official high school transcript including GPA and SAT scores
  • Please give the Counseling Office a minumum of two (2) school days to process your request. It is your responsibility to be timely in requests as to meet deadlines.
• Selection based on academic performandce, extra-curricular school activities, sports activities, community involvement work activities, financial need

Amount of Scholarship: 2 ($1,500)

Application & Information: Application and additional information are available in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom, in the Counseling Office or by clicking here.

Posted Date: February 14, 2020

Work Ethic Scholarship Program - CLOSED

Sponsored by the mikeroweWORKS Foundation

Deadline: Must be submitted online on or before March 31, 2020, 11:59 p.m.

Eligibility: 

• High school senior enrolled or planning to enroll at an accredited two-year college, vocational, technical school or other approved technical institute in the United States

• Enrolled or planning to enroll in an approved vocational or comparable trade-related program (click here for a complete list)
• Past recipients of the Mike Rowe Scholarship Foundation Educational Scholarship are not eligible to apply

Requirements/Criteria:

• Transcript (grade reports are not accepted)
• Copy of Page 1 of the most recently filed IRS form 1040
• Two (2) finished reference questionnaires
• Completed S.W.E.A.T. Pledge short answer questions
• Complete school cost from
• Make a short video

Amount of Scholarship: Amount varies

Applications & Information: Apply online

Posted Date: Februrary 17, 2020

Freddie Fu Sports Medicine Scholarship Program - CLOSED

Sponsored by UPMC Sports Medicine

Deadline: Postmarked by April 18, 2020

**School Counselor forms must be given to your counselor a minimum of 2 school days before you intend to mail the packet. It is your responsibility to be mindful of deadlines. **

Eligibility: Current JUNIORS beginning their senior year in September 2020.

Requirements/Criteria: 

• Must be entering senior year of high school in September 2020
• Scholarsip application form completed electronically then printed
• School Cousnelor Form
• Two (2) letters of recommendation
• Must have a strong interest in a career in Sports Medicine
• Academic excellence; leadership qualities; community involvement

Amount of Scholarship: $2,000 in return for a six-week summer internship (30-40 hours per week, 6 consecutive weeks). Starting date to be mutually agreed upon at the UPMC Freddie Fu Sports Medicine Center.

Application & Information: Application and information are available in the Class of 2021 Google Classroom, SHS Counseling Office or by clicking here.

Posted Date: February 17, 2020

Christopher Kiefer Memorial Scholarship "Live Your Dash" - CLOSED

Sponsored by The Christopher Kiefer Memorial Scholarship Fund

Deadline: March 30, 2020 by 9 a.m. **No Exceptions**

Eligibility: Graduating Southmoreland High School Seniors who exemplify academic excellence, school and community involvement, and the desire to succeed at a four-year college or university

Requirements/Criteria:

• Completed application with essay (see attached for topics - 200 word maximum)
• One letter of recommendation from a current or former teacher
• Transcript and most recent report card
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA
• College/ university letter of enrollment or acceptance

Amount of Scholarship: Scholarship amounts will be determined by the Memorial Committee with recipient(s) to be announced on Class Day

Application & Information: Available in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom; in the Counseling Office; or can be downloaded here.

Posted Date: February 20, 2020

Deno Castelli Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by Pittsburgh National Bank, Trustee

Deadline: March 27, 2020, due to Mrs. Hanford **No Exceptions** Allow four (4) school days for your school counselor to complete their portion of the application.

Eligibility/Criteria: High School seniors residing in Westmoreland County who have been admitted or accepted to an accredited college/university offering a four (4) year course of study

Amount of Scholarship: Varies

Application and Information: See Mrs. Hanford for application packet. Application must be signed out and returned even if you decide not to apply.

Posted Date: February 20, 2020

Three Rivers Desk and Derrick Club Scholarship

Sponsored by Three Rivers Desk and Derrick Club

Deadline: Postmarked no later than June 30, 2020

Eligibility: Students planning to pursue a four-year degree in an energy-related program at an accredited Western PA college/university or enroll in a trade/vocational degree program at an accredited Western PA school, to learn an industry-related skills or trade

Requirements/Criteria: 

• Must be accepted and enrolled in a college/university or trade/vocational degree program at an accredited Western PA school and must be scheduled to attend on a full-time (12 credits or more) or a part-time (6 credit hours or more), while being employed on a full-time basis
• 500-word essay answering, "Must it always be the tough decision... energy OR the environment?"
• Provide list of internships, leadership roles and/or service activities
• Letter of recommendation in a sealed envelope from someone other than family member or friend.

Amount of Scholarship: (2) $500

One scholarship will be reserved for an applicant who is a member of a Desk and Derrick Club on the day of application, or sponsored by a current member

Application and Information: Available in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom, at the Counseling Office or can be downloaded here.

Posted Date: February 20, 2020

Imagine America Scholarship

Deadline: December 31, 2020

Eligibility: 

• High School seniors graduating in 2020 and planning to attend a career school participating in the Imagine America High School Scholarship Program. For a complete list of participating schools, click here.
• GPA of 2.5 or higher
• Financial need
• May be asked to demonstrate commitment to community service

Amount of Scholarship: $1,000

Application and Information: Apply online at Imagine America Scholarship and follow the directions below.

1. To apply for an Imagine America Scholarship, you must become an Imagine America member Sign up here.

2. Click the "Create an Account" button to have access to the scholarships. Select the "Student" option. Follow the screen prompts to access your profile.

3. After creating your account, complete your profile. You MUST fill out your profile before applying for a scholarship. If your high school is not listed, you may add the high school by filling out the information as prompted.

4. Once you have completed your profile, search for scholarships by using the "Scholarship Program" and "State" filters

5. Review and apply for your scholarship. Make sure to watch the entire Financial Planning Made Simple (FPMS) video. Scholarship applications will only be approved if the applicant has viewed the FPMS video from start to finish.

6. Once you have completed these steps, notify Mrs. Hanford that you have applied. Check your application status by clicking "My Applications" tab on the left navigation bar.

Posted Date: February 24, 2020

Tzu Chi Scholars Scholarship - CLOSED

Sponsored by Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation

Deadline: Postmarked by March 14 **To be mailed by student**

Eligibility: High school seniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA enrolling in a U.S. college full-time for the entire academic year 2020-2021

Requirements/Criteria:

• Application with official high school transcript and essay
  • Please give your counselor two (2) school days notice. It is your responsibility to plan accordingly.
• Demonstrate financial need for college tuition
• Will enroll in an accredited U.S. college full-time for the entire 2020-2021 academic year
• Documents demonstrating financial need (see link)
• Two (2) letters of recommendation
• Typed autobiography, minimum two (2) pages 
• One (1) page essay about Tzu Chi, based on information you've have researched from websites, publications, news articles, etc.
• Home visit or in-person interview required in application process

Amount of Scholarship: $1,000

Application & Information: Information is available in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom or for download here.

Posted Date: February 24, 2020

The Pattie & Walter Blenko Scholarship Fund - CLOSED

Deadline: April 17, 2020

Eligibility/Requirements: 

• High school seniors graduating in 2020 and have applied to an accredited college, university or conservancy that offers a four-year program in theater or performing arts (e.g. dance, drama, music, voice, costume design, set design, lighting and sound)
  • If you receive a full scholarship from any other source, you are not eligible; those receiving a partial scholarship are eligible
  • Students seeking a teaching degree are not eligible
• Scholarship is for tuition only and checks will be made payable to the school specified by the student
• Based on financial need, student experience and scholastic merit, as well as school and community involvement
• Semi-finalists will be invited to audition for the scholarship committee; auditions judged on talent, professional presence and interpersonal skills
• High school transcript
• Resume
• Narrative sketch
• Financial need statement
• Two letters of recommendation
• Two headshots or full-length photos

Amount of Scholarship: $4,000

Application and Information: Information is available in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom, in the Counseling Office and can be downloaded here.

Posted Date: February 24, 2020

The Bernie Matthews Opportunity Foundation Scholarship - CLOSED

Deadline: April 15, 2020 (Mailed by student)

The Bernie Matthews Opportunity Foundation Scholarship seeks to assist students who have demonstrated integrity, perseverance in overcoming adversity or other difficult life circumstances, strength of character, financial need, a good academic record, commitment to pursue a college education, and a desire to contribute to society.

Eligibility/Requirements: To be eligible to apply, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be enrolled full time as a high school senior, progressing toward graduation in the spring/summer with plans to enter a U.S. college no later than the fall 2020 term.
• Exhibit a strong commitment to pursue and complete a bachelor's degree at an accredited non-profit or private institution in the U.S. (students may start their studies at a two-year program, and then transfer to a four-year institution)
• Demonstrate a financial need ($55,000 or lower adjusted gross family income is required)
• Be involved in co-curricular and community service activities
• Display integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity or other difficult life circumstances
• Maintain a minimum 2.5 GPA
• Be a U.S. citizen

STUDENT must mail the following items along with the application to The Bernie Matthews Opportunity Foundation Scholarship, 40 North Pennsylvania Avenue, Suite 410, Greensburg, PA 15601.

• Copy of parents' federal tax return or 1099-SSA (Social Security Form). If parents' are not required to file a tax return, include statement copies of any government benefits, such as Public Assistance or Disability payment documents. Income verification may be uploaded online or sent by mail. Applicants of divorced or legally-separated parents need to submit tax forms for both parents.
• Typed essay, not to exceed three (3) 8.5 x 11-inch pages, describing how you meet the criteria for the scholarship award.
• One (1) letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, coach, family friend, pastor, priest, etc.

Amount: $4,000 ($1,000 per academic year, renewable for four years)

Application and Information: Application and additional information can be downloaded here. If student is unable to print the scholarship application, contact Mrs. Hanford by email. A Google Form will be created only if there is need.

Posted Date: April 7, 2020

Friends of the Scottdale Library Scholarship

Deadline: April 30, 2020 at 3 p.m. to Mrs. Hanford

This scholarship is established by the Friends of the Scottdale Library to provide one $500 scholarship to a high school senior who will be attending a school of higher education.

The Scholarship Committee of the Friends of the Scottdale Library shall select the recipient with the final approval given by the Board of the Friends of the Scottdale Library.

Eligibility/Requirements: 

• Applicants must reside in the service area of the Scottdale Public Library, which includes the boroughs of Scottdale and Everson, as well as the townships of East Huntington and Upper Tyrone.
• High school seniors planning to attend a college, university or technical school
• Possess the potential for success in higher education (minimum 2.5 GPA)

Supplemental Materials Needed:

• Transcript with ACT/SAT scores (provided by Mrs. Hanford)
• Copy of college acceptance letter
• Copy of personal profile that includes community and school activities, awards, honors and volunteer involvement
• Copy of employment history
• An essay (minimum of 500 words) addressing the question: "Describe a time when you made a meaningful contribution to your community in which the greater good was your focus. Discuss the challenges and rewards of making your contribution."

Amount: $500

Information: Complete the application posted on the Class of 2020 Google Classroom. 

Posted Date: April 7, 2020

Michael J. & Aimee Rusinko Kakos Visual Arts Scholarship

Deadline: April 30, 2020

Qualifications: 

• Students must be Westmoreland County residents
• Student must be a high school senior intending on enrolling full time in a visual arts program at an accredited college or university.

Requirements: 

• Completed application, must be postmarked or emailed by April 30, 2020
• Copy of high school transcript, GPA must be 3.0 or above
• Personal statement to include career goals, accomplishments, experience to date in the arts, academic distinctions/honors received, work experiences and involvement with community outreach to volunteerism. Please do not exceed three (3) pages, double spaced.
• One letter of recommendation from a school counselor or arts faculty member
• Three (3) different digital images representing your work; identify the medium and title. No more than three (3) images will be judged.
• Recipient is asked to attend the award presentation on July 2, 2020 at the Westmoreland County Arts & Heritage Festival.

Amount: $1,000, to be paid directly to the college or university. The scholarship must be applied during the academic year in which it is awarded

Students related to a member of the Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival Board of Directors, Scholarship Committee or a Festival employee are not eligible to participate.

Application and Information: Application can be downloaded at the Class of 2020 Google Classroom, or by clicking here. If you are unable to print the application, please contact Mrs. Hanford by email.

Posted date: April 7, 2020

Michael J. & Aimee Rusinko Kakos Literary Arts Scholarship

Deadline: April 30, 2020

Qualifications:

• Students must be a Westmoreland County resident
• Student must be a high school senior intending to enroll full time in a literary arts program at an accredited college or university

Requirements:

• Completed application; must be postmarked or emailed by April 30, 2020
• Copy of high school transcript; GPA must be 3.0 or above
• Personal statement to include career goals, accomplishments, experience to date in the arts, academic distinctions/honors received, work experiences and involvement with community outreach or volunteerism. Please do not exceed three (3) pages, double spaced.
• One letter or recommendations from a school counselor or English faculty member
• Three (3) different digital pieces representing your work; identify your work by title. No more than three (3) pieces will be judged.
• Recipient is asked to attend the award presentation on July 2, 2020 at the Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival

Amount: $1,000, one time scholarship paid directly to the college or university. The scholarship must be applied during the academic year in which it was awarded

Students related to a member of the Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival Board of Directors, Scholarship Committee or a Festival employee are not eligible to participate.

Application and Information: Application can be downloaded at the Class of 2020 Google Classroom, or by clicking here. If you are unable to print the application, please contact Mrs. Hanford by email.

Posted date: April 7, 2020

Olga Gera Visual Arts Scholarship

Deadline: April 30, 2020

Qualifications: 

• Student must be a Westmoreland County resident
• Student must be a high school senior intending to enroll full time in a visual arts program at an accredited college or university

Requirements: 

• Completed application; must be postmaked or emailed by April 30, 2020
• Copy of high school transcript; GPA must be 3.0 or higher
• Personal statement to include career goals, accomplishments, experience to date in the arts, academic distinctions/honors received, work experience and involvement with community outreach or volunteerism. Please do not exceed three (3) pages, double spaced.
• One letter of recommendation from a school counselor or arts faculty member
• Three (3) different digital images representing your work; identify the medium and title. No more than three (3) images will be judged
• Recipient is asked to attend the award presentation on July 2, 2020 at the Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival.

Amount: $1,000; to be awarded directly to the college or university. The scholarship must be applied during the academic year it is awarded.

Students related to a member of the Westmoreland Arts & Heritage Festival Board of Directors, Scholarship Committee or a Festival employee are not eligible to participate.

Application and Information: Application can be downloaded at the Class of 2020 Google Classroom, or by clicking here. If you are unable to print the application, please contact Mrs. Hanford by email.

Posted date: April 7, 2020

Scottdale Community Picnic in the Park Scholarship

Deadline: May 5, 2020 at 3 p.m. to Mrs. Hanford

Application and Information: Available in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom

Posted date: April 7, 2020

Larry and Jeffrey Lauffer Memorial Scholarship

Little Learner Preschool, whose classes are held at the New Stanton Alliance Church, will be awarding scholarships to high school seniors who also graduated from Little Learner Preschool. This is their 12th year for the scholarship.

Deadline: May 15, 2020

Eligibility/Requirements: 

• Current high school graduating senior
• Graduate of Little Learner Preschool, include the year

Application and Information:

Submit the following information to janelauffer@hotmail.com by May 15.

• Email address
• Full name
• Home address
• Phone number
• High school from which you are graduating this year
• A few memories of Little Learner Preschool, and how the school prepared you for further schooling
• Include a picture

Posted date: April 20, 2020

Rocky Waller Memorial Scholarship

Deadline: May 8, 2020

This scholarship was created in 2001 in memory of Robert "Rocky" Waller. Mr. Waller was a teacher at Southmoreland High School for 28 years and served as the golf coach for 26 years. In March 1999, Mr. Waller was diagnosed with esophageal cancer and after a long hard battle, he passed away in June 2000, with his children and wife by his side. His death left a void in the hearts of so many, including his students and golf team members, past and present. During his time as the golf coach, he worked with hundreds of students and passed along his love for the game.

He wanted to show young people that learning to golf was not only enjoyable, but something they could do for a lifetime. Mr. Waller felt at home on the golf course and even when he was sick and not feeling well, he made a point to be with his students on the course. In fact, the last time he drove anywhere was to the Southmoreland Golf Team Outing on Memorial Day weekend, May 2000. He insisted on being there and supporting his golfers at an event he started many years before. After his passing, a memorial golf outing was established to support these scholarships to help his team members with college expenses. This is something he felt very strongly about and we are pleased that after 20 years, we are still able to further his dreams.

This scholarhsip is awarded annually to two Southmoreland High School seniors who are on the golf team and who also exemplify academic excellence and the desire to succeed at a four-year college/university after high school. Winners will be presented with a certificate at the awards ceremony. Winners must present the Waller family with a copy of the acceptance letter from the four-year college/university they will be attending.

Application and Information: 

• Complete the online application available at the Class of 2020 Google Classroom. 
• Submit the essay to Mrs. Hanford by email.

Essay Topic: Rocky Waller truly believed that golf is a lifetime sport that could benefit a student both personally and professionally. Write an essay explaining why you do or do not share this belief.

Posted date: April 20, 2020

Randy Parfitt Memorial Scholarship

Deadline: May 15, 2020

Requirement/Eligibility: 

• Application, available in the Google Classroom
• Essay
• Exemplify good character and leadership abilities
• Copy of letter of acceptance to post-secondary education
• One letter of recommendation

Application and Information:

Complete the online application available in the Class of 2020 Google Classroom. Email information to Mrs. Hanford.

Posted date: April 20, 2020