Above: At the CFNRV’s annual scholarship picnic, Andrea Leng (second from left), the 2022 recipient of the Benjamin Eiss Memorial Scholarship, poses with loved ones as well as the scholarship fund’s benefactors, Norman and Nancy Eiss (third and fourth from left). Photo credit: Wilsie Photography
Students are encouraged to apply to scholarships through the Community Foundation of the New River Valley (CFNRV) before its scholarship application closes on January 30. This year, the CFNRV will give out more than $100,000 to New River Valley students, with each scholarship award ranging from $500 – $4,000.
Students on a variety of educational paths are eligible to apply, whether they are planning to pursue a degree or currently in school at a 2- or 4-year college or university, trade, or technical school. Many funds are set up specifically with financial need in mind. In 2022, 40% of scholarship recipients were from lower-income backgrounds.
Since issuing its first scholarship in 2002, the foundation has awarded $1,190,000 to 939 students. While there are dozens of CFNRV funds set up to fund scholarships each year, applicants only need to submit a single application to the foundation and indicate the scholarships for which they would like to be considered.
“I am so grateful to the Community Foundation for supporting me in my endeavors to further my education,” said Tali O’Neil. “It is another step in me being able to fulfill my potential.” O’Neil, who attends New River Community College, received a scholarship from the Wings Fund, created by donors David and Marilyn Hutchins.
The foundation’s scholarships support a wide variety of students, whether a student is a high school senior, currently attending college or school, or someone returning to school later in life. Recipients may continue to apply for scholarships each year, with many students getting funds annually throughout their schooling to help offset the costs of attending school.
Students may review scholarship requirements and access the application at cfnrv.org/scholarships. Any questions about the application may directed to Laura Pynn at cfnrv@cfnrv.org or 540-381-8999. The application is due Monday, January 30, 2023, at 5 p.m. EST.