Available Scholarship Opportunities:
Some scholarships are open to all students in our 42-town service area as well as Westerly, Rhode Island and East Haddam, CT. Others are open to only some towns, a particular town, or a specific school. Some are open to current or returning college students of any age, but most are for graduating high school seniors and most are need-based.
In memory of Al Almeida who gave 39 years of service to The Day newspaper, provides scholarships to Eastern Connecticut students who demonstrate strong academic standing.
Established by the New London Water Authority and sponsored by Veolia Water North America, provides scholarships to high school seniors from East Lyme, New London or Waterford who are pursuing degrees in the preservation of water resources.
Provides scholarships for Southeastern Connecticut undergraduate students who evidence both academic excellence and financial hardship; and graduate students interested in international relations.
Established by Ingrid and Stanley Popiel in memory of Billy Roderick, a life-long commercial fisherman in Stonington and a dear friend of the Popiels. Provides scholarships to students from Stonington High School, who are pursuing studies in marine biology.
Established by a shared commitment between the Eastern Connecticut Workforce Investment Board (EWIB) and retired Pfizer Senior Director Armelde Pitre to increase the pipeline of skilled professionals with the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) credentials needed by employers in Eastern Connecticut, including manufacturers and pharmaceuticals. Provides scholarships for high school seniors planning to major in a STEM field at an accredited college or university to earn the credentials needed by employers in Eastern Connecticut, including manufacturers and pharmaceuticals.
Provides scholarships to students graduating from Fitch High School (Groton), who have demonstrated financial need and who plan to study marine science, library science, English, or any type of engineering or computer science.
Established by friends and family in loving memory of Barbara LaMarche, provides scholarships for any New London County student, with a preference for a Stonington resident or Stonington High school senior, who has shown interest in music as demonstrated by participation in a music program either in school or outside of school, with preference for a student who plans to study music after high school. Financial need is preferred but not a requirement.
Provides scholarships to students with high academic achievement and financial need.
Provides scholarships to Stonington High School graduates who demonstrate both strong academic achievement and financial need.
Provides scholarships to students pursuing studies in health-related fields, including at the graduate level.
The Bulkeley Alumni-Harold J. Arkava Scholarship is for lineal descendants of alumni of the Bulkeley School in New London, CT who are pursuing undergraduate studies or other post-secondary training at an accredited institution. Selections are made based on academic achievement and consideration of financial need. If you are a descendant of a “Bulkeley Boy” and a first-time applicant, fill out the Bulkeley Alumni – Harold J. Arkava Scholarship Application on the Scholarships Portal.
Provides scholarships for students from New London, who have demonstrated excellence in political science, public affairs, government or social service.
The Cahill Black Point Education Fund Scholarship is for members and direct descendants of members of Niantic’s Black Point Beach Club Association (BPBCA) who are pursuing postsecondary studies. Submit the Cahill Black Point Education Fund Scholarship Application to be considered for this scholarship.
In memory of Carl Safford, Jr. and his wife Dorothy Croft Safford. Carl graduated from Fitch High School in 1941, and the University of Connecticut School of Engineering in 1950. He served in the Air Force during World War II. As an engineer at (General Dynamics) Electric Boat for 41 years, Carl was part of the team that designed the Nautilus, the first nuclear-powered submarine, other nuclear submarines, and marine power plants. As a member of the Nautilus trial crew, he went on five of the initial cruises. This scholarship is for students from Fitch High School (Groton) who are pursuing degrees in the sciences, are in good academic standing, and have financial need.
For students from Fitch High School (Groton) who are in good academic standing, have demonstrated financial need, and are pursuing studies in the sciences.
In memory of Carl Safford, Jr. and his wife Dorothy Croft Safford. Carl graduated from Fitch High School in 1941, and the University of Connecticut School of Engineering in 1950. He served in the Air Force during World War II. As an engineer at (General Dynamics) Electric Boat for 41 years, Carl was part of the team that designed the Nautilus, the first nuclear-powered submarine, other nuclear submarines, and marine power plants. As a member of the Nautilus trial crew, he went on five of the initial cruises. This scholarship is for Southeastern Connecticut students who are pursuing undergraduate studies in engineering at the College of Engineering, University of Connecticut, Storrs and have financial need.
Established by her husband in loving memory of Carolyn Benvenuti, who dedicated her professional career to helping others. Carolyn received an M.S. degree in Counseling Student Development in Higher Education and was employed by the State of CT Department of Higher Education in the Academic Affairs area of the Veterans Approving Agency. Her responsibilities included licensing and accreditation of academic programs at colleges, universities, and private occupational schools throughout the state. Carolyn was also an information specialist for the Federal Title 111 Dislocated Worker Program, where she provided educational alternatives for individuals seeking a new career. In this position, Carolyn was also a member of TAPS (Transition Assistance Program) at the Subbase in Groton, providing career counseling to veterans exiting the military. This scholarship is awarded to students who are members of Mystic Congregational Church.
Established in memory of Dr. Caryn Nesbitt, an emergency room physician at Lawrence & Memorial Hospital in New London. Caryn recognized the critical need for primary care and preventive medicine services for women in our area. She was a pioneer in the delivery of medical services specifically designed to address the unique concerns of women, founding the Women’s Care Medical Center in Groton in September 1991. Caryn was passionate about offering a place where women could go and be treated in a comfortable atmosphere and obtain a wide range of services in one location. Provides scholarships for female residents in the Foundation’s 42-town service area who are attending an accredited medical school, with a preference for students interested in women’s primary care and a desire to practice in the region.
Established in loving memory of Clayton M. Grey who passed away unexpectedly in 2007 at the age of 44. Clayton had an awesome zest for life, and a fantastic sense of humor. He was every essence of a family man being the most devoted husband, father, son, and friend. Clayton loved history, boating and enjoyed Karate in which he earned his black belt. He took pleasure in coaching numerous youth sports teams, watching basketball, whether it was UCONN A´s teams or Stonington, but most of all he cherished watching his own girls’ games. Provides scholarships to graduates of Stonington High School, who are in good academic standing, participate in band, and are involved in community service.
Provides single or multi-year scholarship awards for children of active duty, veterans, and retired members of the Navy in the Foundation’s service area. First preference will be for residents of East Lyme, Groton, Ledyard, Lyme, New London, North Stonington, Old Lyme, Stonington and Waterford. In any given year if there are no qualified applicants from the above towns, second preference will be for students from New London County; and third preference will be for students from Tolland or Windham Counties.
The scholarship is given in memory of Clarence B. Sharp, former mayor of Groton, he was responsible for much of the development of the Thames River harbor at New London and Groton, including construction of piers at the Submarine Base, the Naval Underwater Systems Center and the General Dynamics‐Electric Boat Division, a submarine and shipbuilding yard. The scholarship provides support for students graduating from high schools in any of the towns served by the Community Foundation attending a four year progam at the University of Connecticut – College of Agriculture, Health & Natural Resources.
This scholarship was established in memory of Cynthia Carano of Waterford, a graduate of Norwich Free Academy who passed away suddenly at the age of 45. Cynthia was an elementary school teacher in Sterling, and then Preston, for over 23 years. She was a mentor for student teachers during their training at Preston Veteran’s Memorial School, as well as a consultant to the CT Department of Education. This scholarship is for graduates of Preston Plains Middle School and any Preston-designated public high school who demonstrate understanding of the importance of mentoring.
In memory of Dan Steward, the Town of Waterford’s longest-serving first selectman. Provides scholarships for Waterford High School (CT) seniors who are pursuing post-secondary education or training at an accredited educational institution. Scholarship recipients will be in good academic standing but need not be at the top of their class. Commitment and growth during the high school years, civic engagement and strong involvement in the school and/or wider community and demonstrated financial need will be considered.
Established in memory of Dana Poole, who passed away unexpectedly as a result of an automobile accident. Dana was a junior attending New England College in Henniker, New Hampshire majoring in Business Economics, and he had ambitions to attain his MBA. Dana was an avid sailor and a lover of anything to do with boats and the ocean. He loved playing football and lacrosse for the East Lyme High Vikings. Provides scholarships to graduates of East Lyme High School who have demonstrated academic excellence, athletic achievement, and an exceptional work ethic in either academics or athletics, with a preference for students who will study economics or business management.
Established in memory of Danny Gilman, who was a graduate of Norwich Free Academy and earned his bachelor’s degree at Connecticut College. He had decades of experience working in local, state, and federal government, including with the Connecticut General Assembly and as a government relations consultant. Dan also served as the Connecticut Judge of Probate for the District of Bozrah. Provides scholarships for graduates of Norwich Free Academy who are attending or will attend an accredited liberal arts college or university, and who are interested in pursuing a career in public service.
Dennis Barlow’s dedication, love and commitment to his family, patients and community were evident throughout his life. Dr. Barlow served on the Eastford Board of Education and chaired the Facilities Committee. Provides scholarships to Eastford students pursuing degrees in the sciences, engineering, or pre-med fields.
Provides scholarships to students who are pursuing studies in computer science at an accredited college or university, in pursuit of a career in the technology sector, and who are also from groups of people that are underrepresented in that sector, such as women and people of color. Scholarship recipients will be selected based on recommendations from school personnel, academic ability, computer-related extra-curricular activities, and documented financial need.
Provides scholarships for students from New London County with demonstrated financial need who will be pursuing post-secondary studies in art or art-related fields or in environmental studies, with highest preference for Black, indigenous and other students of color.
Provides scholarships to students from New London, Waterford and East Lyme high schools, who are pursuing continued education in the fine or performing arts.
Provides annual scholarships for students who are residents of the towns of East Lyme, Groton, Ledyard, Lyme, Montville, New London, North Stonington, Old Lyme, Salem, Stonington, and Waterford who are pursuing post-secondary studies in environmental education fields of study at an accredited university or college.
Dr. Hendel was a long-time family doctor and resident of Waterford, who was known for his compassion, kindness, and generosity throughout over 35 years of service to the community.
Provides scholarships to students from Waterford High School, who evidence strong community service involvement.
Provides scholarships to students with demonstrated financial need who are graduating from Windham High School. Students should exhibit qualities of leadership, good citizenship, concern for others, involvement in community service, and exemplify Dr. James T. Anderson’s humanitarian qualities, including cheerfulness.
Provides scholarships to graduating seniors from New London County, who evidence academic achievement and demonstrate financial need.
Provides scholarships for residents of Southeastern Connecticut who are pursuing a nursing degree or attending nursing school.
Edith Wheaton Smith was a schoolteacher in Eastford and then secretary of the Board of Education. The Fund provides scholarships to Eastford students in good academic standing who will pursue any course of study at an accredited two- or four-year institution or other accredited institution.
Established on Dr. Edward Gipstein’s 95th birthday, the fund honors him and his wife, Fuzzy Gipstein, and their dedication to the New London area. The scholarship honors Dr. Gipstein’s commitment to medical practice at Lawrence+ Memorial Hospital and Fuzzy’s dedicated career at the Lyman Allyn Art Museum. Provides scholarships for students from the Foundation’s 42-town service area who have a commitment to furthering their education in medicine or a healthcare field, or in the arts.
Established in 1984 by his family and friends in loving memory of Ledyard resident Edward C. Farrell, who died in a crash caused by a drunk driver in February 1983. An engineer and former Naval officer, Ed Farrell was a loving husband to Dolores and devoted father to four daughters, Beth, Debbie, Tamara and Suzanne. Ed volunteered a great deal of his time and talent to church and community activities. He also believed strongly in education; Ed graduated from Villanova University with a degree in electrical engineering, earned his MS from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, and was pursuing an MBA at the time of his death.
The Fund provides scholarships to graduating high school seniors who live in New London County, who have demonstrated financial need, and are pursuing post-secondary studies at an accredited college, university or career (technical/vocational/trade) institution.
Established in memory of Edwin C. Higgins, Jr. by his son Edwin III and former employees and colleagues at Rings End (lumber and building supplies) in Niantic. Provides scholarships for students from Southeastern Connecticut who are pursuing studies in the building trades or business.
Established by Pam Hennessey in loving memory of her parents, Harold and Edythe McNulty. Harold had a great sense of humor and a love of American history, particularly naval history. When the time came that he could no longer live at home, his daughter wanted to find a place that recognized his uniqueness and cared for him as an individual. The answer was Beechwood Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in New London, which had also cared for Edythe, a former nurse. Provides scholarships for both graduating high school seniors and current college students pursuing nursing degrees in the Foundation’s 42-town service area and may include students pursuing both undergraduate and graduate degrees.
Established by former pupils, neighbors, and friends in memory of Eleanor K. Lewis, who was a teacher and principal in Eastford, Connecticut for 34 years. The Fund provides scholarships to Eastford students who demonstrate scholastic ability, good character, and financial need.
Established in memory of Eloise Farris (“Mrs. Farris”) who gave 29 years of service to the Windham Public Schools: 14 as a paraprofessional at the Oaks and Noble Schools, 7 as the Assistant Cafeteria Manager at North Windham School, and until her retirement, for 8 years as Cafeteria Manager at North Windham School. There was nothing Mrs. Farris liked better than engaging with and entertaining her students. She was so devoted to her work in the Windham Schools that upon her retirement, then-First Selectman Michael T. Paulhus proclaimed January 30, 2006, to be “Eloise Mae Farris Day” in Windham/Willimantic.
Provides scholarships for graduating seniors or current college students from Windham High School, with a preference for students pursuing degrees in the Culinary Arts, Accounting or Elementary Education. As secondary preference is for students from E.O. Smith High School or Windham Technical High School pursuing degrees in the same fields.
Emil Vaida began his education in the one room Phoenixville School. He greatly valued education and earned many degrees. The fund provides scholarships for students from Eastford.
Provides scholarships to residents of New London County who plan to attend Syracuse University.
Preference is given to graduates of St. Bernard’s High School.
Provides Scholarships for students attending technical or trade schools.
Leta Sabin Trepal was a 12-year member of the Eastford Board of Education and a Woodstock Academy Trustee. Esther Harmon was a scholar in Teutonic Philology. Lucie Harmon was an expert in vertebrate biology. The fund provides scholarships to residents of Eastford who are pursuing a post-secondary education in any area of study, with special consideration for non-traditional students returning to academia. Requirements are academic achievement and good character demonstrated via integrity, industriousness and seriousness of purpose.
In memory of Ethel L. Ducharme, a dedicated Lisbon community member, provides scholarships for students who are graduates of Lisbon Central School and are seeking a career in medicine (including but not limited to physicians, nurses or therapists) or medical research.
Established by Dr. Bettye R. Fletcher in 1996.
Provides scholarships to students with strong academic standing, with a preference for students of color.
In memory of Frank Chinigo, who enjoyed pursuing horticulture and agriculture activities, provides scholarships to students from Eastern Connecticut who are attending the University of Connecticut, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.
Provides scholarships for Stonington High School or Ella T. Grasso Southeastern Technical High School students who are pursuing a college degree or career training, with a very strong preference for students attending trade school.
The Frederick B., Theodore R. and James H. Haddad Scholarship provides scholarships for graduating high school seniors and undergraduate students who are residents of any town in Windham County. Priority preference is given to a student attending Yale University. Secondary preference is for a student(s) attending any accredited educational institution. Selection is based on good academic standing, involvement in extra-curricular activities and financial need.
Provides scholarships to interns from the FRESH New London program, a tiny but mighty food justice organization empowering youth. FRESH works with young people to help them farm the Community Garden, and to find and develop their voice in order to create a more sustainable and just food justice system that is inclusive, community-led and participatory, without the exploitation of people, land, or the environment.
Established in loving memory of Pete and Helen Elks, who were a caring and fun-loving couple and residents of Stonington. Pete was a career US Navy man having served 32 years during World War II, and the Korean and Vietnam Wars. As members of The Greatest Generation, Pete and Helen had a deep belief in the development of aspiring youth as the future leaders, innovators and technicians of our country. This Scholarship is dedicated by the Elks family in memory of their belief and spirit.
The Fund provides scholarships to graduates of Stonington High School with demonstrated financial need, good academic standing, involvement in extra-curricular activities and a commitment to community service.
Provides scholarships to students from Wheeler High School (North Stonington).
Provides scholarships to students from Fitch High School (Groton), who are pursuing post-secondary health related studies.
Provides scholarships to students studying art, with a preference for students with disabilities.
Provides scholarships to students pursuing a career in engineering or science.
An avid supporter of local history, Harold Carpenter contributed a supplement to Diane Maher Cameron’s book, Eastford, The Biography of a New England Town, published in 1976 by the Eastford Historical Society. In the supplement, Mr. Carpenter shared first-hand memories of local history. The fund provides scholarships to graduating students from Eastford who demonstrate financial need, scholastic ability, and qualities of character – including integrity, industriousness, and seriousness of purpose. Special consideration is given to candidates interested in history.
Provides scholarships graduating high school seniors who are residents of Stonington.
Provides scholarships for New London High School students who have overcome great hardship.
For current college students who are participants in Higher Edge.
Provides scholarships for students of Hispanic heritage, who are residents of New London County, and are pursuing accredited academic or vocational programs.
Established by the friends and family of Jake T. Watson, who passed away at the age of 25 from injuries resulting from a fall. Jake was raised in Mystic and graduated from Robert E. Fitch High School. He went on to work shoveling snow, landscaping, and trimming trees. His work for a tree cutting service led to his passion for climbing and motivated him to start his own business, an accomplishment of which he was very proud. Jake lived and loved life without fear. His passion for climbing and tree cutting was fed by a love of the outdoors and a willingness to do everything 150%. For living such a short life, he lived it big and unafraid.
Provides scholarships to students who are pursuing post-secondary studies at any accredited college, university, technical school, or other accredited educational program to pursue a career in tree work, forestry, arboriculture or an environmental field, and have financial need. First preference of students from Robert E. Fitch Senior High School.
Family and friends established this scholarship in memory of of James H. Torrance, who worked at Electric Boat and taught electrical engineering at the University of Connecticut, and was also very involved in educational, political and civic activities until his death in 1992.
Provides scholarships to students from Montville High School who are studying engineering.
For Union residents who have lived in Union for at least five consecutive years, are graduating from any town-approved high school, and are interested in furthering their education at an accredited two- or four-year school, trade school, or other accredited program.
Joan & Bob Rutman, longtime New London residents, established the scholarship in 2001 to give back to the community they cared about.
For graduating high school seniors from East Lyme, Groton, Ledyard, Lyme, Montville, New London, North Stonington, Old Lyme, Salem, Stonington and Waterford with good academic standing to pursue any four-year degree. Financial need is considered.
The scholarship is awarded in memory of Joan D. Hauptfeld, who spent 37 years teaching Mathematics, primarily at Ledyard High School. After retirement, she was a volunteer at LHS for several years. Joan was a committed teacher and exhibited concern for her students throughout her career. She continued to support and follow the careers of her former students throughout her life. Joan enjoyed travel, cheering on the UConn Huskies and the Connecticut Sun basketball teams, attending the theater, and volunteering at St. Vincent De Paul Soup Kitchen.
For high school seniors and/or current college students from Ledyard High School who have financial need.
Established in loving memory by her husband, Jody Capen was a 1970 graduate of Fitch High School and a special education teacher and tutor there for many years.
For graduating seniors from Fitch High School who are pursuing any 2- or 4-year degree or trade or technical training. First preference for students with special needs. Secondary preference for students pursuing a career as a special education or other teacher.
This scholarship is in honor of civic leader and Post 9 member Anthony John “Tony” Basilica, a Korean War veteran who served in the 82nd Airborne Division and later in the Connecticut National Guard and Connecticut State Guard.
For graduating high school seniors who are residents of New London, who have demonstrated interest in civic participation such as NJROTC or scouting, and who are pursuing postsecondary studies at any accredited education institution.
For students from East Lyme High School to study science or engineering at a public university. Preference for students who have participated in community service or athletics.
This scholarship was established by the Portuguese Holy Ghost Society in loving memory of John E. Boyle, Jr., a decorated Air Force Staff Sargent, accomplished custom home builder, and passionate golfer and athlete who passed away on June 20, 2015 after a brave battle with cancer.
For graduating seniors from Groton, Ledyard, Stonington and North Stonington who plan to pursue studies in law, criminal justice, applied sciences, trades, sports management or sport sciences.
Edmund DeSantis long admired the sacrifice of his Uncle John O’Brien in World War II. He established this memorial scholarship to keep his uncle’s memory alive.
For a student from Southeastern CT who has financial need and is pursuing a degree in healthcare.
For graduating Windham High School seniors who demonstrate leadership and involvement in athletics, extra-curriculars and/or community service, who have financial need, and who plan to attend any accredited institution.
For Union residents who have lived in Union for at least five consecutive years, are graduating from any town-approved high school, and are interested in furthering their education at an accredited two- or four-year school, trade school, or other accredited program.
Named for John Ostrom Enders II, a resident and advocate of New London. John was a painter, sculptor, photographer, ceramicist and creative writer, and consistently gave of himself to those in need.
For a graduating senior at East Lyme, New London or Waterford High School who demonstrates a serious and sustained interest in any of the creative arts and a like commitment to the community and volunteer activities.
Established in memory of John T. Savage, an agriculturalist and dairy farmer in Eastford and State Representative for the General Assembly House of Representatives 50th district. John was Eastford’s First Selectman for 14 years. In addition, he was active in many northeast regional associations including the Board of Trustees of Day Kimball Hospital and a charter member of N.E. Homemakers, as well as a member of the First Congregational Church of Woodstock. He received many awards throughout his lifetime recognizing his years of dedicated public service.
For students residing in Brooklyn, Eastford, Pomfret, Union and Woodstock, with a preference for students studying politics or agriculture.
As a former Community Foundation scholarship recipient himself, Justin Beaudin established this scholarship to pay it forward to graduates of New London High Multi Magnet Campus, New London, Connecticut. Eligible candidates have demonstrated financial need, excellence in Math or Science, and interest in the creative arts including music, drama, art, and related fields, and will attend an accredited 4-year institution. The recipient is selected by the school.
Established in loving memory of Kathleen Elizabeth “Katie” Jackson of Putnam, who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 19 as a result of a traffic accident. Katie brought love and joy into her family’s lives. She discovered the joy of movement early in life, and at age three began dancing in a Killingly Recreation Department program. That was followed by eight years at the Putnam Dance Studio. Following her attendance at Killingly Public Schools through junior high she chose to enroll in the EASTCONN Arts at the Capitol Theater High School for Performing Arts (“ACT”) in Willimantic. There she majored in dance and performed in many school productions, graduating in 2013. Whether she was dancing for a performance, for practice, or just for the sheer pleasure of it, she was amazing and lovely to watch. Her concentration, intensity, and easy grace and poise were a wonder to see in such a small package. Katie also enjoyed playing the piano.
For students from the ACT, with a first preference for those who have studied dance and plan to major in dance or a dance-related field, or otherwise plan to incorporate dance into their lives on an ongoing basis. A secondary preference is for students who have studied music and plan to major in music or a music-related field or otherwise plan to incorporate music into their lives on an ongoing basis.
For graduating residents of Montville who will attend an accredited 2- or 4-year college or university or a trade school.
Established in honor of the Killingly High School Class of 1970.
For graduating seniors from Killingly High School who have exhibited strong community commitment and involvement through meaningful and consistent participation in activities that support and improve upon social wellbeing.
For graduates of Lyme-Old Lyme High School and Hale-Ray High School who have been residents of Lyme, Old Lyme or East Haddam for at least two years, have financial need, and are pursuing postsecondary studies. Preference for educational institutions in New England.
The Daumys, Gaston, born in Havana, Cuba and Mimi, born in Paris, France, both of Latin heritage, combined their love of education and art by creating the Latin Network for the Visual Arts (LNVA). Through this non-profit organization they produced juried, biennial fine art exhibits entitled “Latin Views”. These exhibits showcased, during eleven years, 190 romance language artists from North, South and Central America, the Caribbean, Spain, Portugal, France, Italy and Romania. These artists presented over 600 pieces of fine art and, in collaboration with local educators, the LNVA brought over 3,000 local area students to “Latin Views” and provided them with guided tours in English, French and Spanish. In addition, the LNVA organized multi-lingual special evening tours of “Latin Views” for non-traditional students, mostly adults.
Based on this experience, they established the Latin Network for the Visual Arts Scholarship for graduating high school seniors and traditional-aged college undergraduates who are residents of the towns served by the Community Foundation of Eastern CT who are pursuing studies in the visual arts. Secondary preference is for non-traditional students who are pursuing higher education in the visual arts.
This scholarship was established in memory of Laura B. Seder, who passed away at the age of 49. Laura was a partner in the Norwich Law firm of Sayet and Seder. She was a member of the New London County and American Bar Associations, specializing in several areas of law and acting as the Tribal Prosecutor for the Mashantucket Tribe on child welfare matters.
For students from Norwich who have financial need and will attend an accredited college or university. Preference for interest in the field of law.
Established by Laura Fish-Kelly, a prominent financial advisor in Windham and Tolland counties.
For female students from Windham County who are pursuing studies in business or a business-related field at an accredited college or university and have financial need.
For female or non-binary/third-gender residents of Northeast Connecticut. From Artist to Engineer and everything in between, the scholarship supports the mission of the Northeast Women & Girls Fund by encouraging youth to “go out and grab the world!”
For graduating high school seniors from Southeastern CT for whom the award will serve as an incentive to reach an educational goal.
For New London High School students who demonstrate strong academic ability.
For female students from Southeastern CT who are pursuing a college degree towards a career (elected or appointed) in government or politics.
Provides scholarships to outstanding students with financial need from East Lyme High School, Robert Fitch High School (Groton), Montville High School, New London High School and Waterford High School.
Established in memory of Matthew Chew, who was an asset to the community, not in the way of politics or community service, not in the way of fame or fortune, but in the way that he was the kind of person you wanted around, the kind you want to know, the kind who would make your life better just by knowing that such great, genuine people exist. He was born in Japan on May 16, 1985 and grew up in Gales Ferry, CT, graduating from Ledyard High School in 2003. Throughout his life, he developed a strong connection to the art and music community and had an affinity for meeting new people and making them laugh. Matthew had bipolar disorder and ADHD and used music and art as an outlet to cope. He always talked about returning to school to pursue a degree in the Arts but hadn’t yet due to constraints of time and money. His life was tragically cut short on October 30, 2010, through a random act of violence in New London. Provides scholarships to Eastern CT students who are pursuing degrees in the arts, with a preference for painting, drawing or musical performance, and those wishing to return to school.
Mary King Sharpe grew up in Eastford and was one of seven children. Her family’s farm was located at the top of School House Hill. The fund provides scholarships for graduating high school students from Eastford to pursue studies at an accredited two- or four-year institution offering a business degree.
Established in memory of Mike Gavitt, who was known to family and friends as somewhat of a culinary genius and was a perfectionist about pairing food and wine. He never stopped learning and trying to improve in all of his pursuits. Mike was also musically gifted. He enjoyed playing guitar and was a bass player in a few bands. Provides scholarships for residents of Eastern Connecticut who are in good academic standing, have demonstrated financial need, and are pursuing post-secondary studies in the culinary arts. Secondary preference for students studying music or a music-related field.
Provides scholarships for students from Southeastern Connecticut or Westerly, RI who are attending Mitchell College.
Provides scholarships to graduating seniors from New London High School who demonstrate a talent and interest in music, preferably Jazz, and who are pursuing higher education degrees at a 4-year accredited institution.
This scholarship was established in memory of Patricia C. Norman, a member of the Ledyard High School Class of 1970 and the daughter of Irving H. Norman and Eleanor G. Norman of Ledyard, CT. Provides scholarships for graduating Ledyard High School seniors who are in the top half of their class and plan to pursue a four-year degree towards a music-related career. Secondary preference for students pursuing a social work or social services career.
Established by Bill Mayo as a Christmas gift to his wife Ellen (Drake) Mayo. Patricia Drake was Ellen’s beloved mother who died of breast cancer at the age of 45. Provides scholarships to graduating high school students of color who are residents of New London and are interested in pursuing degrees in health and human services.
Established in memory of Paul Carpenter, who was a dedicated athlete, walking 36 miles home after football practice until it became impossible to continue. He also participated in cross-country and track & field. Paul was voted by his senior class as one of the top two artists in his class. Provides scholarships to Griswold High School students who are members of the football, track & field, cross-country, or girls or boys basketball teams. An annual fundraiser is held at the Griswold High School Thanksgiving Day game.
Established by the children of Peter Matthews, provides scholarships to students from southeastern Connecticut who will attend or are attending an accredited four-year liberal arts college and have demonstrated motivation to learn.
Provides scholarships for graduating seniors from 14 high schools in New London County, CT and Westerly, RI who will attend an accredited college or university to pursue studies in a STEM field.
Established by friends and family in loving memory of Philip A. Turner, provides scholarships to New London students who have been involved with the Rotary Club of New London’s Interact organization at New London High School and who have demonstrated a strong commitment to community service. A secondary preference is for Norwich Free Academy students who have demonstrated a strong commitment to community service. In either case, the student(s) must be planning to major in Business or a related field, must be in good academic standing and must have demonstrated financial need.
Provides scholarships for Stonington High School students pursuing degrees in marketing or business.
Provides scholarships to graduates of New London High School or other New London based technical or vocational schools.
The Raymond V. Payer Scholarship was created by his family and friends upon his untimely death in 1991. Mr. Payer was a resident of Stonington, senior vice president of Advest, Inc. and manager of the New London office. He provided financial advice to many charitable and community organizations in Southeastern Connecticut. The recipient is selected by Williams School.
Provides scholarships to students from New London High School who demonstrate promise and motivation.
The scholarship is established in memory of Robert L. Howard, Jr. who passed away unexpectedly at the age of 42. Robert grew up in Preston and Groton. He was a 1993 graduate of the University of Connecticut School Of Business. He was a partner and a certified public accountant at Mahoney Sabol & Co. LLP in Glastonbury. He was a 2007 recipient of the Hartford Business Journal’s Top 40 Under Forty Award. He loved motocross racing and at the time of his passing, was the current President of Central Cycle Club in Central Village. The Fund provides scholarships to students residing in the Foundation’s 42-town service area who are, or will be attending, an accredited 4-year college or university and have demonstrated financial need, academic achievement and qualities of character, along with a commitment to community service. Primary preference will be given to candidates who ride motorcross and/or are a member of, or a child of a member of, the Central Cycle Club in Central Village, CT.
Established in memory of Bob Desjardins, who was born into farming and worked on his family’s dairy farm in Northeastern CT. Bob gave his entire life to agriculture and it was his passion. As herdsman for the farm he loved the cows and knew them by name. He took great pride in his work. He was a 1973 graduate of Killingly High School, and the Killingly Future Farmers of America program. He was also active in Windham County 4-H, was a member of the Holstein Association, Dairy Herd Improvement Association, and the Connecticut Farm Bureau. Provides scholarships for college bound seniors from Killingly High School who are members of Future Farmers of America and are planning to pursue careers in agriculture or a related field.
Provides scholarships to New London High School students who demonstrate excellence in civics and politics.
Ruben Elijah Reiser Johnson was an honor roll student at New London Science & Technology Magnet High School. He was a passionate photographer with a sharp eye for composition and a gifted artist whose work was displayed at the Hygenic Art Gallery. Ruben was a trend setter and very fashion forward. He loved to be in front of the camera and helped operationalize the TV Production Studio at STMHS. He aspired to attend art school in NYC and work in the fashion industry. Ruben passed away June 21, 2011 after a short but courageous battle with brain cancer. He was 16. This scholarship is awarded in his memory to a New London County resident who plans to pursue studies in art, with a preference for the visual arts, and who has financial need.
Scott LaFrance’s father established this scholarship in 2014 in honor of his son. It is for postsecondary scholarships and other out-of-school time enrichment opportunities for special needs students with financial need from Plainfield High School.
Recipients are selected by the school.
Established in memory of Sean Duzant, who passed away unexpectedly in 2004 at the age of 27 as a result of a motorcycle accident. Sean graduated from New London High School and Central Connecticut State University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology and went on to work as a lab technician at Pfizer. He was an exceptionally gifted athlete and excelled as a soccer player. He played Division One soccer for CCSU and went on to play semi-pro with the Connecticut Wolves of the US “A” League. From a very young age Sean had a passion for fishing. He obtained his Captain’s License and was planning to start his own fishing charter business. Provides scholarships for Southeastern CT students in good academic standing who are pursuing a course of study in Biology and/or who have demonstrated excellence in soccer at the high school level. Like Sean, the recipient must possess qualities of character and have financial need.
Established in loving memory of Sharon Burrows by her sister, this scholarship is for residents of New London County who are pursuing post-secondary studies in the visual and applied arts– ceramics, drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, design, crafts, photography, literature, architecture, industrial design, graphic design, fashion design, interior design, and decorative arts. Secondary preference is for areas of study in the culinary arts. Selection based on good academic standing, financial need, involvement in extra-curricular activities and recommendation by school personnel.
Provides scholarships for residents of northeastern Connecticut with financial need who are pursuing a degree in nursing or a nursing-related field at an accredited educational institution.
Established in honor of Louis “Skip” Thavenet, proprietor of Thavenet Machine Company in Pawcatuck, a family-owned business founded in 1921 by the late John Thavenet. Now in its fourth generation, the company proudly serves the local community in machining, welding, and design, and is a hometown supplier of steel, welding supplies, and industrial gases. The Thavenet family continues a long tradition of craftsmanship and pride in workmanship.
The fund provides scholarships to students who reside within the Foundation’s 42-town service area and are pursuing studies at an accredited community college, technical or trade school, or certification program in the technical fields. Preference is given to students in industrial arts (including welding, manufacturing, construction management, and industrial engineering) as well as those pursuing careers as professional hairdressers. Additional preference is given to students from the Connecticut towns of Stonington and North Stonington and the Rhode Island towns of Westerly, Charlestown, Richmond, and Hopkinton.
Established by the estate of Margaret Smith, the fund provides scholarships to students majoring in History or English Literature, at an accredited college, university or graduate program.
Established by the Stonington Historical Society on the occasion of the town’s 350th anniversary, provides scholarships to students who are residents of Stonington and are interested in pursuing unique educational opportunities.
The Stonington High School Class of 1966 established this scholarship as a tribute and memorial to its lasting ties, to provide scholarships for graduating seniors at Stonington High School with a preference for students who are direct descendants of members of the Class of 1966. Preference is given to students attending trade or technical school and students looking to attend college and study some of the more hands-on fields that are closely related – such as engineering, architecture, landscape design, food science – fields of study that are associated with the trades.
Established in memory of charter member Antonia Brancia by other members of Take Note!, an eastern Connecticut nonprofit a cappella ensemble that exclusively performs benefit concerts for other nonprofits, free of charge. Toni was a warm and caring person, and an internationally renowned pediatric audiologist whose life was tragically cut short in 2007. Music played a vital role in Toni’s life, and she especially loved making music with her Take Note! family. Provides scholarships for students in good academic standing from the towns of Lebanon, Ashford, Chaplin, Columbia, Coventry, Mansfield, Scotland, Stafford, Union, Willington, Windham, Willimantic, Brooklyn, Canterbury, Eastford, Hampton, Killingly, Plainfield, Pomfret, Putnam, Sterling, Thompson and Woodstock, who are pursuing post-secondary studies in music, music performance, music theory or music education at an accredited educational institution, and who demonstrate a history of active participation in music.
Provides scholarships to graduates of Stonington High School who demonstrate financial need.
Provides scholarships to students from New London County, who are attending or will attend an accredited four-year college or university.
Provides scholarships to residents of New London.
Provides scholarships to students with good academic standing and notable Irish or Polish heritage.
Provides scholarships to residents of Union, who are interested in furthering their education at an accredited two- or four-year school, college, university, trace school, or other accredited organization.
Provides scholarships to students attending four-year colleges, who are in good academic standing, have community involvement, and demonstrate financial need, with a preference for education related fields.
The Walter S. Kapala Scholarship recognizes graduating seniors at Plainfield High School who demonstrate merit through academic standing. Students with financial need who are seeking an associate or bachelor’s degree on a full-time basis are welcome to apply.
Provides scholarships to outstanding students residing in Waterford.
Provides scholarships to students from New London High School who are studying business.
Established in memory of William H. Murdock and Gladys Covell Murdock. Provides scholarships for graduating seniors or current college students including those seeking graduate degrees, who are residents of Pomfret, CT. The Murdock’s goal was to provide financial assistance to further the education, including college or professional school, of any deserving Pomfret student.
Established by family and friends to honor the life of Bill Emberton of Stonington who died in February 2012 in a skiing accident. Born and schooled in England, Bill spent over 40 years in the computer industry, a field in which he held several patents. He was an avid sailor and civic volunteer, often lecturing about local history and literary greats. His broad intellect and love of reading prompted the Fund’s creation and its preference to provide scholarships to students in Eastern Connecticut who show an in-depth interest in literature and poetry.
Provides 4-year scholarship awards for students pursuing bachelor’s degrees, who are in the top 10% of their high school class and maintain a B average while in college. First priority is for students who are residents of Mystic; second priority for residents of Groton; and third priority for residents of the Foundation’s original 11 town Southeast service area.
For a student to pursue studies in the visual or performing arts, with a preference for music, singing, photography, painting/drawing and acting.
questions?
Send us an email: scholarships@cfect.org
“I realized that in order to change things, for me as an individual, or in the world, I must stand up, speak out, and be an agent for change. I am majoring in photography so that I can bring awareness to the injustices that underserved communities suffer from around the world. During my time at Spelman College and beyond, I hope to honor the people for whom my scholarships are named.”
– Teala Avery, Norwich, 2020 recipient of the Danny Gilman Memorial Scholarship and the Thomas P. Quinn Memorial Scholarship
