Best Higher Education Grants in Virginia

About Us

The Community Foundation San Luis Obispo County is a resource for local charitable giving. Created by and for the people of San Luis Obispo County, The Community Foundation is an enduring source of charitable funds to meet the changing needs and interests of the region. We envision San Luis Obispo County as an inclusive haven where everyone, regardless of background, feels free to fully participate. In collaboration with our community partners and donors, we seek to foster a safe, respectful environment with ample opportunity for all to reach their potential and contribute to the success of our community. We invite you to join us in celebrating diversity, making sure all of our neighbors feel seen, and free from dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, as we shape a future where all residents can flourish. 

2025-2026 Scholarship Applications

Big dreams start here! With support from generous individuals, families, and businesses, the Community Foundation offers scholarships that help San Luis Obispo County students reach new heights in their education and careers.

Julian Crocker Community Scholarship

This scholarship is in memory of Dr. Julian Crocker, former Superintendent of San Luis Obispo County Schools and longtime educator. Scholarship awards support student pursuing community.

The John W. Purvis Memorial Scholarship supports students pursuing Aeronautical Engineering or related fields, honoring the legacy of John Purvis, former CEO at Edge Autonomy. Offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, this scholarship aims to empower high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students in achieving their educational aspirations. With a commitment to inclusivity and community development, this scholarship helps foster a brighter future for ambitious students in San Luis Obispo County.

The John W. and Yvonne Y. Hsu Edmisten Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports students pursuing Aeronautical Engineering or related fields. This scholarship is open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, providing essential financial assistance to help them achieve their educational and career aspirations. With a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion, the foundation aims to empower local students to reach their full potential.

The Becky Briggs Memorial Scholarship, established by the Western Henrico County Rotary Club, honors the memory of Becky Briggs, a promising student who tragically passed away in 1990. This scholarship aims to support seniors from local high schools demonstrating exceptional academic commitment and community involvement. Recipients are expected to pursue higher education at accredited four-year institutions, fostering a legacy of excellence and community service in the Richmond area.

The CarMax-Rick Sharp Entrepreneur Scholarship, established in 2013 by The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond, honors the contributions of founder Rick Sharp. This scholarship aims to support the next generation of entrepreneurs in the Richmond area. Eligible applicants are graduating high school seniors demonstrating financial need, academic commitment, leadership skills, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis to those planning to enroll in accredited colleges or universities.

The Central Virginia Scholarship, established in 1993 by anonymous donors, aims to assist outstanding students in metropolitan Richmond who face financial barriers to attending their preferred private colleges. This scholarship addresses the disparity in costs between private and public universities, ensuring that deserving students can pursue their educational goals without being hindered by financial constraints. Managed by The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond, this initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities in the region.

The Donald W. Colbert Scholarship, established by S&K Famous Brands in 2006, awards educational scholarships to graduating seniors from Richmond City Public Schools. Candidates must demonstrate academic promise, community service, and financial need, with preference given to those interested in retail careers or whose parents work in the retail industry. This initiative supports students pursuing further education at accredited institutions, fostering opportunities for future leaders in the Richmond community.

The Granger Ancarrow Scholarship offers financial support to graduating seniors from public high schools in metropolitan Richmond and the Tri-Cities area, encouraging academic excellence and community involvement. Established by The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond in 2000, this scholarship aims to assist students who demonstrate strong academic performance, financial need, and participation in track and field activities. Recipients are expected to enroll in accredited four-year colleges or universities, fostering future leaders in their communities.

The Harrison-Labouisse-Mayo Memorial Scholarship, established by Ms. Sally Harrison in 2002, provides support to students in Richmond who have faced catastrophic circumstances affecting their education. Sponsored by The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond, this scholarship aims to assist high school graduates committed to academics and community involvement, who plan to enroll in accredited post-secondary institutions. It fosters resilience and hope for students striving for academic success despite challenges.

The Hayes E. Willis Memorial Scholarship, established by the family of Dr. Hayes E. Willis in 1999, supports African American students from Portsmouth and Richmond pursuing careers in science and healthcare. This scholarship aims to honor Dr. Willis's legacy as a teacher and physician. Eligible applicants must demonstrate strong academics, financial need, and involvement in school and community activities. Funds assist with tuition, room, board, books, and lab fees, ensuring a brighter future for deserving students.

The Heather Dayton Memorial Scholarship, established by Heather's family in 2001, honors her memory by providing post-secondary financial support to students of Native American descent. This scholarship emphasizes diversity, community service, and a commitment to benefiting Native Americans. Eligible candidates must be graduating high school seniors with a demonstrated commitment to their community, and preference is given to students from select high schools in Virginia. The scholarship aims to promote educational opportunities and support for underrepresented students.

The Hill Family Scholarship, established by The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond, supports post-secondary education for high school graduates in the Richmond area diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum. Eligible students can receive funds for educational expenses while attending accredited colleges or universities in the U.S. This initiative aims to enhance access to educational opportunities and promote academic success for deserving students within the community.

The Holliday Family Scholarship, established by the Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond, aims to support graduates of Richmond Public Schools and Cristo Rey Richmond High School who exhibit academic promise and financial need. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.8 and be planning to enroll in a college or university. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering educational opportunities for local youth, ensuring they have the resources needed to pursue higher education.

The Holstein Scholarship, established in 2006 by The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond, provides educational scholarships to high school seniors from Colonial Heights or Petersburg public schools. Recipients are chosen based on their academic performance, community involvement, and financial need. This scholarship aims to support students who plan to continue their education at accredited colleges or vocational schools, fostering a commitment to academic excellence and community service.

The John C. Wallace Scholarship, established by Carolyn Wallace and Ashley Borders in 2017, supports post-secondary education for members of St. Martin's Episcopal Church in Richmond, VA. Eligible applicants include high school graduates and adult learners planning to attend accredited colleges or vocational schools in the U.S. Candidates must demonstrate church involvement, financial need, and community service. Previous recipients can reapply, fostering continued educational opportunities in the community.

The John H. Wright Scholarship, established in 2018 by The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond, honors John H. Wright's legacy in agriculture and support for youth. It aims to assist students from Virginia's Goochland, Louisa, Hanover, Powhatan, Cumberland, and Fluvanna counties, including high school graduates and adult learners, who pursue studies related to agriculture or land stewardship, fostering success for future generations.

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

William J. Nichols Medical Scholarship

Established by the Hyde Park Rotary in honor of Mr. Nichols, income from this fund provides scholarships to graduating high school seniors living in the Hyde Park School District with plans to pursue a career in a medical field.

Type of Award

One-time non-renewable scholarship payable to school

Current High School

Franklin D. Roosevelt High School or residents in the Hyde Park School District

The Lois and Duke Williams Memorial Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, aims to support students who have faced challenges in their lives and wish to pursue post-secondary education. Open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, this scholarship represents a commitment to fostering educational opportunities for those who strive for success despite obstacles. Apply now to take your first step towards achieving your dreams!

The Manford and Maude Brown Medical Education Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports local residents pursuing degrees in medical or healthcare fields. Open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students, this scholarship aims to empower aspiring healthcare professionals in achieving their educational goals. With a commitment to inclusivity and community support, it fosters a brighter future for students in San Luis Obispo County.

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

Wappingers Rotary Scholarship

Established by the Rotary Club of Wappingers Falls, scholarships will be awarded to graduating seniors from Roy C. Ketcham High School or who reside in the RCK area who have demonstrated involvement/leadership in community service activities and an ability to succeed in their chosen field.

Type of Award

One-time non renewable scholarship payable to school

Current High School

Roy C. Ketcham High School or resident in the RCK district

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

Maria E. McCarthy Ringwood Memorial Scholarship

Established by the family of Maria McCarthy Ringwood to honor her memory and love of theater, this scholarship is available to Roy C. Ketcham High School and Our Lady of Lourdes High School college-bound graduating seniors who have actively participated in theater in school.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school

Current High School

Our Lady of Lourdes High School, Roy C. Ketcham High School

The Maureen 'Mo' Clancy Memorial Scholarship supports female students from San Luis Obispo County who have participated in cross country or track and field during high school and are pursuing post-secondary education. This scholarship aims to empower young women, fostering their educational and career aspirations while promoting diversity and inclusion within the community. Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year are welcomed from high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students.

The Richard J. Weyhrich Leadership Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, aims to support high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students with demonstrated leadership potential. This scholarship, established in memory of Richard Weyhrich, a West Point graduate and U.S. Army officer, provides financial assistance to help students achieve their educational and career aspirations. The foundation fosters an inclusive environment, encouraging all students to apply and reach their full potential.

The Richard M. Fisher Memorial Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports students pursuing careers in construction trades and vocational fields. Established in memory of Richard Fisher, a dedicated public works inspector, this scholarship is open to high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students. By providing vital financial assistance, the scholarship aims to empower local students to achieve their educational and career aspirations, fostering a brighter future for the community.

The Richard K. Sauret Viticulture and Enology Scholarship, offered by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in viticulture or enology at a four-year college. This scholarship aims to empower high school seniors, undergraduates, and returning students in San Luis Obispo County. By providing financial assistance, it encourages academic and career advancement, fostering the next generation of leaders in the viticulture and enology fields.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Marcus Foundation focuses on addressing critical needs and systemic challenges, primarily in hunger alleviation and sustainable practices. They seek partnerships with organizations that promote innovative food resources and sustainability. Their funding strategy emphasizes collaboration to amplify resources and enhance impact while fostering immediate solutions to hunger issues. The Foundation believes in long-term stewardship and the importance of sustainability for future generations, aiming to create systemic change alongside immediate support.