West Virginia Foundation Opens $133K in Scholarships

Students across West Virginia and western Maryland just got a huge boost toward their education goals. The Tucker Community Foundation has opened applications for more than 45 scholarships ranging from $500 to $10,000, with most awards landing between $1,000 and $2,000.

Last year alone, the foundation distributed over $133,000 in scholarships to deserving students. This year, they're expanding opportunities even further with two new scholarships specifically for trade school and technical college students.

The Lawrence & Marion Mace Memorial Scholarship will support students from Preston County or Roane County pursuing technical education. The Wayne C. & Mary J. Watring Smith Scholarship targets Tucker County and Preston County students heading to trade schools or two-year technical programs.

Chief Financial Officer Michael Moore wants every student to know one simple truth: just apply. "Just because you do not qualify for one scholarship does not mean you would not qualify for another," Moore explains. One application automatically enters students into consideration for all available funds.

The foundation serves students in Barbour, Grant, Mineral, Pendleton, Preston, Pocahontas, Randolph, Tucker, and Upshur Counties in West Virginia, plus Garrett County in Maryland. High school seniors, current college students, technical school attendees, and even adults returning to school can apply.

Some scholarships target specific groups, like the Louanna Bava Carr Memorial Scholarship for female athletes from Tucker County High School. The Crimson Shamrock Scholarship supports postgraduate students pursuing advanced degrees. The Gary Wilson Scholarship Fund helps Tucker County students attending Christian schools or being homeschooled.

The Ripple Effect

The Tucker Community Foundation was born from tragedy during the devastating 1985 flood. Today, it manages more than 160 endowed funds that create opportunities throughout the region. Every scholarship represents someone's belief that investing in young people creates lasting change for entire communities.

Applications are available online at tuckerfoundationwv.org, at high school guidance counselor offices, or at the Foundation's office in Parsons. The deadline is Friday, March 6th at 3pm, but the Foundation encourages students to apply as early as possible.

One application could unlock thousands of dollars and open doors to education that might otherwise stay closed.