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Scholarships & Contests

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ATTENTION, SENIORS: Be sure to check with the financial aid offices at colleges of interest for information on academic, departmental, and other scholarships specific to each school.


list updated 12/15/08 – added #61-67

1. MSSU A+ Leadership Scholarship
Criteria: A+ certification; first-time freshman admitted to MSSU; U.S. citizen; must complete FAFSA.
Amount: $1,000 per academic year ($500 per semester for maximum of 8 semesters).
Deadline: First come, first served basis

2. Bright Flight Scholarship
Criteria: Senior; ACT composite of 31 or higher. This is the state’s merit-based scholarship administered by the Missouri Department of Higher Education (MDHE). For more information go to www.dhe.mo.gov.
Amount: $2,000.00
Deadline: Spring 2009

3. Horatio Alger Association Scholarship Program
Criteria: Senior with financial need who has exhibited integrity and perseverance in overcoming personal adversity. Minimum GPA of 2.0, with involvement in co-curricular and community service activities. Commitment to pursue a bachelor’s degree, U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. Submit an online application at www.horatioalger.org/scholarships.
Amount: $2,500 to $20,000
Deadline: October 30, 2008

4. Contest: What the United States FLAG Stands For
Criteria: Students in grades 7 thru 12. Essay contest of 350 words on “What the United States Flag Stands For.” For more information go to www.fra.org/essay.
Amount: Grand Prize of $15,000 savings bond; plus 18 National Awards and Regional and Local Prizes
Deadline: December 1, 2008

5. Wendy’s High School Heisman Award
Criteria: Senior men and women, a minimum of a “B” grade average and participation in at least one of the 33 sports officially sanctioned by the National Federation of State High Schools. Interested students should apply at www.wendysheisman.com. Applicants should apply early because each online application must be reviewed and confirmed by a JHS representative. School Winners (one man and one female) will be announced in mid-October. State Finalists will be announced in late October, with State Winners determined in mid-November.
Amount: Varies by level; School Winners receive a $10 Wendy’s Gift Card and a Wendy’s High School Heisman patch
Deadline: October 1, 2008

6. Multicultural Leadership Scholarship (MSU, Springfield, MO)
Criteria: Senior who ranks in the upper one-half of his/her class and is admitted to the university. Applicants must have demonstrated leadership in multicultural, school, and community activities. Scholarship is renewable for up to four additional years beyond the freshman year.
Amount: In-state student fees up to 18 hours per semester for the academic year.
Deadline: February 1, 2009

7. Presidential Scholarship (MSU, Springfield, MO)
Criteria: Senior, 30 or higher on the ACT or 1320 or higher on the math and critical reading portions of the SAT in a test taken prior to January 15, 2008; rank in the top ten percent of the class or have a 3.90 or higher cumulative GPA after the 6th or 7th semester of high school; attend a scholarship interview at MSU on Saturday, February 28, 2009; be admitted to the university. For online submissions go to www.missouristate.edu/presidentialapp.
Amount: Tuition, plus room and board; renewable
Deadline: January 15, 2009

8. Program: Tomorrow’s Leaders Today
Youth leadership program sponsored by the Joplin Area Chamber of Commerce. TLT provides an opportunity to learn more about the area and the importance of community service. TLT brings students together with business and community leaders to identify and discuss community issues, leadership, and career opportunities; five sessions.
Criteria: Senior; outstanding academically, effective leader in community and/or school activities with an interest in furthering his/her knowledge of the Joplin region.
Deadline: September 17, 2008 (Return application to the guidance office by 3:00 p.m.)
Interviews will be held at JHS on the morning of October 7, 2008.

9. Danforth Scholars Program (Washington Univ., St. Louis, MO)
Criteria: Senior with outstanding academic performance and exceptional commitment to community service, leadership and personal achievements that set the student apart from his or her peers. An individual who has substantive knowledge of the student’s dedication to community and academic life must nominate the student. When a student has been nominated, the nomination committee will notify the student and provide application materials, which must be returned by January 15, 2008. The nominator must submit the appropriate form with a letter of nomination by October 15, 2008. SEE YOUR COUNSELOR.
Amount: Full or partial-tuition scholarships
Deadline: Nomination materials, October 15, 2008; student application, January 15, 2009.

10. 2009 Prudential Spirit of Community Award
Criteria: Recognizes students in grades 5-12 for volunteering service in their communities. Complete an online application and submit it to Dr. Sachetta by October 31, 2008. Application can be found at www.prudential.com/spirit or www.principals.org/prudential. When asked for the access key, type the word spirit. A committee of Joplin High School teachers will review all applications submitted and select two Local Honorees and up to four runners-up. The top high school volunteer in each state is named State Honoree in February, and two to ten runners-up in each state are named Distinguished Finalists. Ten of the State Honorees are named America’s top youth volunteers of the year at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. in May.
Amount: State Honorees receive $1,000, engraved silver medallions, and an all-expense-paid trip with a parent or guardian to Washington, D.C. National Honorees receive additional $5,000 awards, engraved gold medallions, and crystal trophies for their schools. They also receive $5,000 grants for nonprofit charitable organizations of their choice.
Deadline: October 31, 2008

11. ANYCOLLEGE.COM SCHOLARSHIP
Criteria: Random student scholarship given away four times per year. There is no fee to sign up for this random scholarship drawing. Students can sign up by going to www.anycollege.com and clicking on the “Win a Scholarship” link.
Amount: $2,000.00
Deadline: September 30, 2008, December 31, 2008, March 31, 2009, and June 30, 2009.

12. Emory Scholars Program – Emory University, Atlanta Georgia
Criteria: Seniors. To be considered for the Emory Scholars Program, students must be nominated by a high school faculty member. Students nominated for the Emory Scholars Program may not be nominated for the Goizueta Scholars Program and vice versa. Scholarships are based upon a student’s merit; financial need is not considered. The Scholars Program nomination form and the student’s complete application for admission must be postmarked by November 1, 2008. SEE YOUR COUNSELOR.
Amount: Range from two-thirds tuition to full tuition, room, board, and fees.
Deadline: November 1, 2008

13. Goizueta Scholars Program – Emory University, Atlanta, GA
Criteria: Seniors interested in a degree in business. Applicants must have superior academic credentials, demonstrated interest in business, as evidenced by engagement in entrepreneurial activities, participation in internships, membership in business clubs, and/or involvement in business-related conferences, competitions, etc. Applicants must submit a completed application form, plus a teacher nomination form. Finalists for the scholarships will be interviewed in late February or early March. Attendance at these interviews is required. Emory will cover the finalists’ travel expenses. SEE YOUR COUNSELOR.
Amount: Ranges from two-thirds of tuition to full tuition and fees.
Deadline: November 1, 2008

14. Bryan and Davidson Scholarships – Davidson College, Davidson, NC
Criteria: Senior. Two Bryan Scholars, one male and one female, are chosen for each incoming class. Students must be nominated to apply. SEE YOUR COUNSELOR.
Amount: $2,000.00 to $30,000.00
Deadline: Nomination packet due September 10, 2008. Application packet due September 19, 2008

15. Gates Millennium Scholars Program
Criteria: African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American or Hispanic American seniors who are citizens, national or legal permanent residents; cumulative GPA of 3.3 on an unweighted 4.0 scale; demonstrated leadership abilities through participation in community service, extracurricular, or other activities; meet federal Pell Grant eligibility criteria; have completed and submitted all three required forms (Nominee Personal Information Form, Nominator Form, and Recommender Form). The online application process is available at www.gmsp.org.
Amount: Cost of undergraduate education in any discipline
Deadline: Paper applications postmarked by January 12, 2009; Online applications submitted by January 12, 2009, 11:59 p.m. EST

16.Hoover-Koken Grant
Criteria: Seniors who demonstrate financial need. A copy of the parent’s 2008 income tax return must be submitted along with the application.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: April 3, 2009

17.Southeast MAP Achievement Scholarship – Southeast Missouri State University, Cape Girardeau, MO
Criteria: Senior who earned a “proficient” score (or better) on the 10th grade math or 11th grade communication arts MAP exam with an ACT composite score or 21 or higher and a 3.0 cumulative GPA.
Amount: $183.30 annually (Cost of textbook rental)
Deadline: Students must apply for admission by March 1, 2009 to be considered for this award.

18. CONTEST: First Freedom Student Competition
Criteria: National essay contest open to students in grades 9-12. This year’s topic is George Washington’s famous statement about “mere” toleration. Students will identify the basic principles of religious liberty espoused in this primary document and will further research and assess how well the United States has lived up to Washington’s ideal. In addition to the monetary award, the first-place winner will receive an all-expense-paid trip to Rhode Island in mid-August 2009 for the annual VIP reading of President Washington’s historic letter. For online registration and more details on the competition visit www.firstfreedom.org and then click on the red button under Council News.
Amount: $750.00 - $3,000.00
Deadline: November 29, 2008

19. 2008 Tristan Umbarger Youth Award
Criteria: Students age 14 to 23 with disabilities who exhibit leadership qualities and self-determination. Students must be nominated to apply. SEE YOUR COUNSELOR.
Amount: $200.00 Savings Bond
Deadline: September 12, 2008

20. Ron Brown Scholarship Program
Criteria: Senior, academically talented and African American; must pursue an undergraduate degree full-time and be a U.S. Citizen or hold a permanent resident visa card. Applications are available at www.ronbrown.org.
Amount: $40,000 ($10,000 per year for four years)
Deadline: There are two application deadlines – November 1st and January 9th

21. SAE Engineering Scholarship Program
Criteria: Senior with the intent of earning a degree in engineering or a related science (refer to individual scholarship descriptions), citizen of the U.S.A. (Permanent Resident not applicable), and meet minimum requirements with regard to grade point average, SAT I Reasoning Test and/or ACT scores as outlined in the individual requirements of each scholarship. Undesignated Scholarships: These are corporate-sponsored scholarships range from $1,000 to $10,000. To qualify, the applicant must enroll in an engineering program accredited by the ABET. Judging will be based on the criteria established by the sponsor and as outlined in the individual scholarship descriptions. Information on ABET is available at www.abet.org. University Sponsored Scholarships: These scholarships range from $400 to full tuition. To qualify the applicant must attend the named university and enroll in a specific program on engineering. Judging will be conducted by the specific university, and will be based on the criteria established by the university and as outlined in the individual scholarship descriptions. For full details, applications & FAQs, visit www.sae.org/students/engschlr.htm.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: December 1, 2008

22. CONTEST: American Legion 75th Annual Oratorical Scholarship Program
Criteria: Students under the age of 20 and enrolled in grades 9 through 12 may enter the competition. Interested students should see Mr. Vogt, Room CC105, who will sponsor the oratorical contest for Joplin High School, in conjunction with our local American Legion Post. Each contestant will deliver a prepared oration, which must be an original effort. The oration must address some aspect of the Constitution of the United States, which emphasizes the attendant duties and obligations of a citizen to our government. A school representative will be chosen from the high school competition to represent our school at county, district, zone and state finals.
Amount: State Winners range from $1,400.00 to $2,000.00; National Winners range from $14,000.00 to $18,000.00
Deadline: Joplin High School contest must be held before November 30, 2008

23. AXA Achievement Scholarship
Criteria: Seniors who demonstrate ambition and drive, determination to set and reach goals, respect for self, family and community, and ability to succeed in college. Go to www.axa-achievement.com to learn more about the scholarship program and download an application.
Amount: $10,000 national scholarships to 52 students (one per state) and $15,000 additional scholarships to 10 national recipients, who will be offered internships at AXA offices and a laptop computer for college.
Deadline: December 15, 2008

24. American Legion Student Aid Resources: Need A Lift?
Criteria: Varies. Need A Lift? Contains many different scholarships for veterans’ dependents. The resource guide contains extensive information on scholarships and other student aid resources. Website: www.needalift.org
Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies

25.The American Legion 2009 Scholarship Program
Criteria: Students under the age of 21 and a resident of Missouri who are unmarried and a descendant of a veteran with at least 90 days active service in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines or Coast Guard, who received an Honorable Discharge for such service. Several scholarships are available. Any additional requirements for each scholarship are on the reverse side of the application. Copies of the scholarships may be obtained on the web at www.missourilegion.org.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: April 20, 2009

26. Voice of Democracy Patriotic Audio Essay Competition
Criteria: Grades 9-12. Record an original 3-5 minute essay on a cassette tape or CD on the theme “Service and Sacrifice by America’s Veterans Benefit Today’s Youth by ...” Label the cassette or CD and neatly typed essay with your name and complete an entry form. Turn in these three items to the guidance office. On November 1st a representative of the VFW will pick up all entries for judging by the local VFW Post.
Amount: Varies. Prizes and scholarships are awarded at the local, district, state and national level.
Deadline: Due in the JHS Guidance Office on October 31, 2008

27. Community Foundation of the OZARKS
Criteria: Senior. The CFO manages 200 scholarships for southwest Missouri. Some eligibility is by “Residency” – the city where you live, and/or the high school you attend; other scholarships are available to all students living in Southwest Missouri. See your counselor or go on-line at www.cfozark.org and follow the link “Grant Seekers & Scholarships.”
Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies

28. CONTEST: Create-A-Greeting-Card Scholarship Contest
Criteria: High school, college and university students enrolled any time during 2008 in an academic program designed to conclude with the awarding of a diploma or a degree. Employees of sponsor, Prudent Publishing Company, Inc., their family members, and persons living in the same household as employees or their family members are not eligible. Greeting card entries will be judged on overall aesthetic appeal, creativity and originality, appropriateness for use as a greeting card, etc. Detailed information about the contest and registration is available at www.gallerycollection.com. Look for the scholarship page on the site and complete the online application. The online application must include an original work of art or photograph. The contest is limited to one entry per person.
Amount: $10,000.00
Deadline: January 15, 2009

29. 2009 American Civil Liberties Union Student Activist Scholarship Program
Criteria: Senior; demonstrate a strong commitment to civil liberties; cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale at the time of graduation; financial need will increase a student’s chance of qualifying for the scholarship. To be considered, a local ACLU affiliate must nominate the student and submit his/her application to the ACLU’s national office. It is essential that the Youth Scholarship Coordinator at the ACLU of Kansas and Western Missouri speak with the student to determine if the student qualifies for consideration and to explain the application process. Interested students should see their counselors.
Amount: 16 scholarships of $12,500.00 each
Deadline: November 21, 2008

30. Best Teen Chef Competition Scholarship & Passion for Fashion Competition Scholarship
Criteria: Seniors interested in attending The Art Institutes in the creative and applied arts. Information on the culinary arts and/or fashion competition for full- and partial-tuition scholarship awards to study at the Art Institute Schools can be found at www.artinstitutes.edu/BTC or www.artinstitutes.edu/passionforfashion.
Amount: Full or partial-tuition scholarship
Deadlines: Best Teen Chef – February 6, 2009; Passion for Fashion – November 21, 2008

31. Flying J Scholarship Program
Criteria: Seniors with minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, planning to enroll full-time at an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school. Selection is based on academic record, demonstrated leadership and participation in school and community activities, honors, work experience, a statement of educational and career goals, and an outside appraisal. Financial need, as calculated by Scholarship America, must be demonstrated for the student to receive an award.
Amount: $2,000.00
Deadline: March 1, 2009

32. College of Business Scholarships – University of Missouri, Columbia
Criteria: Seniors. The College of Business awards over 700 scholarships to incoming and returning students. The three largest are the Sam W. Walton, the Robert T. Trulaske Sr., and the Ponder Minority Scholarships. Applications can be downloaded by going to:

The selection criteria for the Sam M. Walton and Robert J. Trulaske Scholarships can be found on the applications, while the Ponder Minority Scholarship recipients are selected based solely on the information provided by the student on the application. In addition to the scholarship application, the applicant must file the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies by scholarship – Spring 2009

33.McKelvey Foundation Entrepreneurial Scholarship
Criteria: Seniors who own and operate a genuine business (non-profits are eligible), with at least one paid employee, planning to attend a four-year college. This scholarship targets seniors who have demonstrated entrepreneurial spirit by owning and operating their own business while in high school. Apply online at www.mckelveyfoundation.org and click on the Entrepreneurial Scholarship section.
Amount: $40,000.00
Deadline: January 25, 2009

34. Elks National Foundation 2009 Most Valuable Student Scholarship
Criteria: Senior excelling in scholarship and leadership, having financial need. Contest details and applications are available on line at www.elks.org/enf/scholars. Completed applications should be returned to the Joplin Elks Lodge, 1802 W. 26th Street, Joplin, MO 64804.
Amount: Varies. The Elks National Foundation awards $2.296 million in college scholarships to a total of 500 high school seniors nationwide.
Deadline: January 9, 2009

35. Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship
Criteria: Senior in the top 10 percentile on the ACT. (NOTE: Last year’s recipients had ACT scores no lower than 32.) Applicants must submit a 7th semester transcript and verification of ACT score. Each scholarship recipient will receive a form that must be filed with the institution he/she intends to attend, certifying that he/she is registered with the selective service or that he/she is not required to be registered.
Amount: Up to $1,500 per year, depending on federal appropriations, renewable.
Deadline: April 15, 2009

36. Urban Flight and Rural Needs Scholarship
Criteria: Senior planning to enter a teacher education program and make a commitment to teach as a condition of receiving such scholarship. Applicant must be a U.S. citizen and resident of Missouri, graduate with cumulative GPA of 2.5 or higher, and submit a student financial aid statement to the Urban Flight and Rural Needs Scholarship Program along with the application.
Amount: Varies. (The maximum tuition rate is based on the University of Missouri’s rate, which varies annually.)
Deadline: April 15, 2009

37. Missouri Minority Teaching Scholarship
Criteria: Senior who is African American, Asian American, Hispanic American, or Native American and ranks in the top 25% of his/her class or scores in the top 25 national percentile on the ACT or SAT examination. This is a competitive, renewable award for up to four years at participating colleges and universities with approved teacher education programs. The application process includes an essay question, 7th semester high school transcript, and three recommendations submitted on the recommendation forms in the application packet. Awards are based on academic performance, quantity and quality of school and community activities, range and interest of activities, employment experience, leadership abilities, interpersonal skills, and the desire to enter the education field. Upon completion of the teacher education program, recipients of this scholarship are committed to teaching in a Missouri public elementary or secondary school for five years.
Amount: $3,000.00
Deadline: February 15, 2009

38. Missouri Teacher Education Scholarship
Criteria: Senior who ranks in the top 15% of his/her class or scores in the top 15 national percentile on the ACT or SAT examination. This is a competitive, one-time, non-renewable award to be used in one academic year at participating colleges and universities with approved teacher education programs. The application process includes an essay question, 7th semester high school transcript, and three recommendations submitted on the recommendation forms in the application packet. Awards are based on academic performance, quantity and quality of school and community activities, range and interest of activities, employment experience, leadership abilities, interpersonal skills, and the desire to enter the education field. Upon completion of the teacher education program, recipients of this scholarship are committed to teaching in a Missouri public elementary or secondary school for five years.
Amount: $2,000.00
Deadline: February 15, 2009

39. American Legion Student Aid Resources: Need A Lift?
Criteria: Varies. Many different scholarships for veterans’ dependents are listed in Need A Lift?, a resource book which contains extensive information on scholarships and other student aid resources. See your counselor or Mrs. Dimmit to use the Guidance Office copy. Need A Lift? Is available online at www.needalift.org as well.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: Varies

40. John Dennis Scholarship for Criminal Justice
Criteria: Senior who intends to pursue a criminal justice career and will be attending a Missouri college or university. Applicants must have a 2.0 or greater GPA, demonstrate financial need, participate in extra-curricular activities and have a good reference from their counselor.
Amount: $1,000.00
Deadline: January 31, 2009

41. John T. Belcher Memorial Scholarship
Criteria: Senior. Applicants will write a 500 word essay on the following topic: “Consider or respond to either or both of the following “achievement gaps.” (1)The difference in academic achievement for students living in poverty in comparison to achievement levels of students generally. And/or (2)The difference between the academic performance of students and their true academic potential. How do you explain these differences? What causes them? How can they be remedied to help make schools more effective for all students?” Applicants will submit the essay, two letters of recommendation from teachers, and a copy of their high school transcript along with the application to Dr. Sachetta. Dr. Sachetta will submit all applications to the School Board. The Joplin R-VIII School Board will select one application from those submitted to forward to the MSBA Regional Leadership Committee for this region. Selection will be based on academic achievement, need, leadership abilities and the quality of the essay related to public education. One regional winner will advance to statewide competition. Applications are available in the guidance office or may be downloaded from the website: www.msbanet.org/web/2007/05/futurebuilders.aspx
Amount: The statewide winner receives a $1,500.00 scholarship and the other 16 regional winners each receive a $750.00 scholarship.
Deadline: Turn into Dr. Sachetta by December 19, 2008

42. Michael R. LaFerla, DDS, Scholarship
Criteria: Senior, and current or former patient of Dr. LaFerla with a minimum 3.0 GPA, community participation and financial need. Completed applications should be returned to Dr. LaFerla’s office at 2805 E. 29th Street, Joplin, MO 64804.
Amount: Varies from $500.00 to $1,500.00
Deadline: March 13, 2009

43. LEAP Scholarship Program (Lead and Enhance the Accounting Profession)
Criteria: Seniors who are planning to pursue an accounting degree at a Missouri college or university. Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and a written “viewpoint.” Details, rules, and the application process are available at www.leap-forward.com.
Amount: $500.00
Deadline: January 31, 2009

44. CONTEST: Nancy Thorp Poetry Contest
Criteria: Sophomore and junior girls. The contest is sponsored by Hollins University, Roanoke, Virginia, and awards prizes for the best poems submitted. Entries must be submitted online at www.hollins.edu/poetrycontest.
Amount: $200.00 first prize, plus free tuition for the university’s two-week Hollinsummer program, where a creative writing class is offered; $25.00 cash awards to six second-prize winners.
Deadline: November 15, 2008

45.Horatio Alger Association Scholarship Program
Criteria: Senior with financial need who has exhibited integrity and perseverance in overcoming personal adversity. Commitment to pursue a bachelor’s degree, U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. Submit an online application at www.horatioalger.com/scholarships/apply.cfm
Amount: Fifty $5,000.00 scholarships awarded in Missouri
Deadline: October 30, 2008

46. CONTEST: Profiles In Courage
Criteria: Open to students in grades 9 through 12. Applicants will submit an essay of no more than 1,000 words describing how an elected official demonstrated political courage by addressing an issue at the local, state, or national level. Essays may be submitted online or by mail. Applicants must complete and submit a registration form online for themselves and also provide school information, includes a nominating teacher, on the registration form. To navigate the John F. Kennedy website and find the contest information go to www.jfklibrary.org. Under “Education and Public Programs,” click on “For Students.” In the left-hand column, click on “Essay Contest for High School Students.”
Amount: Various amounts totaling $8,500.00; the nominating teacher of the first-place winner will receive $500.00
Deadline: January 10, 2009

47. KFC Colonel’s Scholars Program
Criteria: Senior planning to enroll in a public college or university within their state of legal residence; U.S. citizen or permanent resident; earn a minimum high school cumulative GPA of 2.75; demonstrate financial need. Online scholars applications are available at www.kfcscholars.org from December 1, 2008 through February 10, 2009.
Amount: Up to $5,000.00 per year for tuition, textbooks, and room/board
Deadline: February 10, 2009

48. Toyota Community Scholars
Criteria: Senior with an outstanding academic record, who is an effective leader, and has a well-documented record of service both within and outside the school setting. The applicant must have initiated or be actively involved in a service program addressing a school or community need. While academic performance is a prime factor in the selection process, the distinguishing characteristic is the overall impact of the student’s contribution(s) in the area of community service. Each high school can advance one student in the selection process. Interested students should complete an application and return it to the guidance office by November 21, 2008.
Amount: 100 renewable scholarships, valued at $10.000.00 or $20,000.00 payable over four years.
Deadline: November 21, 2008

49. Hays Memorial Scholarship, Hendrix College, Conway, Arkansas
Criteria: Senior with a 3.6 GPA or higher, and a minimum ACT composite score of 32 or a maximum SAT total of 1410 planning to attend Hendrix College. Interested students must have a teacher complete an online nomination form available at www.hendrix.edu/HaysNomination.
Amount: Tuition, room, board and required fees.
Deadline: November 19, 2008

50. UMKC Trustees’ Scholars Program
Criteria: Senior planning to attend UMKC, Kansas City, MO. Applicants must meet two of the following three academic qualifications to be eligible: Minimum ACT Composite Score of 30, rank in the top 5% of the graduating class, and/or cumulative GPA of 3.5 in core high school curriculum (English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Foreign Language, Fine Arts). Applicants must complete the online UMKC Application for admission before completing the scholarship application.
Amount: Full tuition and fees, room and board, plus $500.00 for books
Deadline: November 15, 2008

51. Missouri Association of Building Officials & Inspectors 2009 Memorial Scholarship Award
Criteria: Senior planning to attend an accredited two- or four-year college/university. Applicant must be planning to pursue a major deemed beneficial to the organization, such as code technology, engineering, architecture or fire science. Applicants will submit a 500-word essay on the topic “How and why the State of Missouri would benefit from the adoption of a statewide building code,” and two letters of recommendation.
Amount: $500.00
Deadline: February 28, 2009

52. U.S. Bank Internet Scholarship Program
Criteria: College-bound seniors planning to attend a two- or four-year accredited college full-time next fall. Scholarship award recipients are selected through a random drawing process. Students can apply on-line at www.usbank.com/studentbanking
Amount: Thirty $1,000 scholarships
Deadline: February 2009

53. Arkansas Alumni Association Scholarship, Univ. of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR
Criteria: Seniors with a 3.60 GPA and an ACT composite of at least 24 or SAT composite of at least 1090. The on-line scholarship application is available at www.arkalum.org/scholarships.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: February 2, 2009

54. Catching the Dream (Formerly the Native American Scholarship Fund)
Criteria: Senior, Native American. This organization will help students in their search for scholarships. They will pay for the ACT if the student cannot afford it. To start the process, Native American students should call Dr. Dean Chavers at 505-262-2351.
Amount: Non-financial
Deadline: On-going

55. NRA Civil Rights Defense Fund (NRACRDF) Essay Contest
Criteria: Students in grades K-12. The theme for the essay is “The Second Amendment to the Constitution: Why it is important to our nation.” Essays will be judged in two categories: Grades 10-12 and grades 9 and below, with separate prizes awarded to the winners in each category. Essays should be about 1,000 words. Essays will be judged on originality, scholarship and presentation and entries must include a statement from a teacher or parent saying the paper is the student’s original work.
Amount: First prize: $1,000.00 U.S. Savings Bond; Second prize: $600.00 U.S. Savings Bond; third prize: $200.00 Savings Bond; Honorable Mention: $100.00 Savings Bond
Deadline: December 1, 2008

56. Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest
Criteria: Entrant must be enrolled in the 12th grade or in a college/university at the time of entry. Entrants will choose one of three topics and one of three pairs of characters from the story and compare and contrast each character’s approach to life and basic motivation. Essays must be no fewer than 800 words and no more than 1,600 words in length, and must be typewritten and double-spaced. Essays may be submitted on-line at http://aynrandnovels.com/AREssays.php.
Amount: First Prize: $10,000.00; 3 Second Prizes $2,000.00; 5 Third Prizes: $1,000.00; 20 Finalists: $100.00; 20 Semifinalists: $50.00
Deadline: September 17, 2009

57.The Fountainhead Essay Contest
Criteria: Students in grades 11 and 12. Students will explain the meaning of a scene in Part 4, Chapter 8, and compare and contract one of three pairs of characters, their approach to life, and their basic motivation. Essays will be judged on both style and content. Judges will look for writing that is clear, articulate and logically organized. Essays must be no fewer than 800 and no more than 1,600 words in length, and must be typewritten and double-spaced. Essays may be submitted on-line at http://aynrandnovels.com/AREssays.php.
Amount: First Prize: $10,000.00; 5 Second Prizes $2,000.00; 10 Third Prizes: $1,000.00; 45 Finalists: $100.00; 175 Semifinalists: $50.00
Deadline: April 25, 2009

58. Anthem Essay Contest
Criteria: Students in grades 8, 9, and 10. Entrants will discuss in a single, unified essay the meaning of several quotes from the story. Essays must be no fewer than 600 words and no more than 1,200 words in length, and must be typewritten and double-spaced. Essays may be submitted on-line at http://aynrandnovels.com/AREssays.php.
Amount: First Prize: $2,000.00; 5 Second Prizes $500.00; 10 Third Prizes: $200.00; 45 Finalists: $50.00; 175 Semifinalists: $30.00
Deadline: March 20, 2009

59. Contest: Missouri Journalism and Missouri Poster Contest, sponsored by the Governor’s Council on Disability (Grades 7 through 12)
Criteria: Both contests are open to students with or without disabilities. Prizes are awarded in two categories for each contest: grades 7-9 and grades 10-12. Students entering the Missouri Journalism Contest will submit a typewritten double spaced essay not to exceed three pages telling the reader their ideas as to how inclusion of people with disabilities benefits everyone, both people with and without disabilities. Use the theme “Inclusion: Expanding Opportunities.” Students entering the Missouri Poster Contest will design a poster depicting their ideas or plan for inclusion using the theme “Inclusion: Expanding Opportunities.” Students should show how people with disabilities can be included in community activities, sports, school activities, etc. Application and information is available online at: www.disabilityinfo.mo.gov.
Amount: Both contests will award monetary and other prizes to the top three winners in both the 7-9 and 10-12 divisions. Additional prize drawings will be held for contest participants.
Deadline: February 27, 2009

60. National Co-op Scholarship Program
Criteria: Senior planning to enroll at one of ten NCCE Partner Colleges and Universities; cumulative GPA of 3.5 or better; complete the National Co-op Scholarship Program application including a typed one-page essay describing why you have chosen to pursue a college cooperative education program. See your counselor for a list of the ten NCCE Partner Colleges & Universities. On-line applications are available at www.co-op.edu.
Amount: 200 merit co-op scholarships totaling $5,000,000.00
Deadline: February 15, 2009

61. Discover Scholarship Program
Criteria: Junior, with a cumulative GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale who has demonstrated accomplishments in community service and leadership, while overcoming an obstacle. Applicants should apply on-line at www.discoverfinancial.com/community.
Amount: Ten scholarships of $30,000.
Deadline: January 31, 2009

62. Hispanic Scholarship Fund
Criteria: Hispanic American senior, U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, 3.0 cumulative GPA or higher, apply for federal financial aid using the FAFSA, and plan to enroll full-time in a degree seeking program in a U.S. accredited institution in the fall of 2009. Apply online at www.hsf.net.
Amount: Awards range from $1,000.00 to $10,000.00
Deadline: February 18, 2009

63. Gates Millennium Scholars Program
Criteria: African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian Pacific Islander American or Hispanic American seniors who are citizens, national or legal permanent residents; cumulative GPA of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale; demonstrated leadership abilities through participation in community service, extracurricular, or other activities; and meet federal Pell Grant eligibility criteria. More information and applications can be found at www.gmsp.org.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: Paper applications postmarked by January 12, 2009; Online applications submitted by January 12, 2009, 11:59 p.m. EST

64. Missouri Youth Leadership Forum
Criteria: Juniors and seniors with disabilities who possess leadership potential. Through the application process, a diverse group of students are chosen as delegates to represent their schools and communities from all areas of the state. Student delegates will participate in this leadership-training program at the University of MO-Columbia on July 26 – July 29, 2009. For more information, and to download an application, go to www.disabilityinfo.mo.gov and click on Governor’s Council on Disability, then Youth Leadership Forum.
Amount: No Cost
Deadline: April 15, 2009

65. United States JCI Senate Foundation Scholarship Program
Criteria: Seniors who plan to continue their education at accredited post-secondary colleges, universities or vocational schools. The Missouri JCI Senate will pick two nominees to represent Missouri for the US JCI Senate scholarships. The application form can be downloaded from either http://www.usjcisenate.org/modules/scholarship/Missouri or http://www.mojcisenate.org/forms.html. Completed applications should be mailed to John R. Thurman #67002, Scholarship Program Manager MO JCI Senate, 2144 E. Laurel, Joplin, MO 64801
Amount: Two Missouri JCI Senate winners will receive a $250.00 scholarship; U.S. JCI Senate Foundation awards several $1,000.00 scholarships
Deadline: January 2, 2009

66. MO Society of Professional Surveyors: Robert V. Pirrie Memorial Scholarship
Criteria: Senior planning to enroll in college level courses and/or participate in activities related to the land-surveying field. These might include mathematics, topography, and drafting, etc. The scholarship will be awarded based on scholarship, leadership, activities and need.
Amount: $1,500.00
Deadline: March 31, 2009

67. U.S. Naval ROTC Scholarship
Criteria: Seniors with a minimum ACT test score of 21 math, 22 English or SAT 520 math, 530 Reading or rank in the upper 10% of their class. Scholarship winners have no commitment to pay back any tuition or serve in the military until after the first day of their sophomore year in college. Information and application are available at https://www.nrotc.navy.mil/.
Amount: Up to $180,000.00 for four years of college expenses
Deadline: January 31, 2009


DISCLAIMER OF ENDORSEMENT: These scholarships are listed for the user’s convenience only. The JHS Guidance Department does not endorse any of these scholarships or contests except for the Joplin R-VIII scholarships. We also caution students and parents to be aware that any personal information submitted in the paper applications or over the Internet has no guarantee of privacy. Please read each web site’s privacy statement before submitting any personal information (including your e-mail address). In addition, it is important for every applicant to research all pertinent information regarding the scholarship application and requirements in this file or on the scholarship sponsor’s web site.

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