Scholarship

 
 

Sullivan County Soil and Water Conservation District Scholarship Opportunity

The Sullivan County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is pleased to offer scholarships to high school seniors graduating from a Sullivan County high school who plan to pursue a college degree in fields related to conservation, environmental science, sustainability, horticulture, botany, agriculture, or other areas promoting environmental stewardship and sustainability.

This scholarship supports students passionate about preserving natural resources, enhancing the environment, and promoting sustainable practices in their communities and beyond.

Eligibility Criteria:

  • Residency: Must be a high school senior graduating from a Sullivan County high school.

  • Fields of Study: Planning to pursue a college degree in one of the following fields (including, but not limited to):

    • Conservation

    • Environmental Science

    • Sustainability

    • Horticulture

    • Botany

    • Agriculture

    • Forestry

    • Soil Science

    • Wildlife Management

    • Natural Resource Management

    • Environmental Engineering

    • Marine Biology

    • Ecology

    • Renewable Energy

    • Environmental Policy or Law

    • Climate Science

    • Land Use Planning

    • Agricultural and Environmental Economics

  • Academic Achievement: Cumulative high school GPA of 2.8 or higher on a 4.0 scale.

  • Commitment: Demonstrate a strong interest in environmental conservation and sustainability and a genuine dedication to protecting natural resources.

  • Alignment: Exemplify the ideals and principles of the Sullivan County SWCD, including responsible land stewardship, sustainable practices, and environmental advocacy.

Scholarship Award Details:

  • Up to three students will be selected to receive this scholarship.

  • Each recipient will receive $500, awarded directly to the student after submitting proof of enrollment at an accredited college or university.

  • Winners will be recognized at the SWCD's Annual Meeting on February 3rd, 2025.

Application Instructions:

1. Complete the Application Form:
Fill out the attached application form with accurate and up-to-date information.

2. Submit an Essay (500-750 words):
Write an essay addressing the following:

  • Why are you interested in pursuing a career in conservation, environmental science, sustainability, horticulture, botany, agriculture, or other related fields?

  • Your commitment to environmental conservation and your goals for positively impacting the environment.

  • How do you embody the Sullivan County SWCD principles and ideals, such as land stewardship, sustainable practices, and environmental advocacy?

  • Any relevant extracurricular activities, volunteer work, or experiences demonstrating your dedication to environmental causes.

3. Provide a Letter of Recommendation:
Submit one letter of recommendation from a teacher, mentor, or community leader who can speak to your character, work ethic, and passion for environmental conservation. The recommender should submit the letter in a sealed envelope or email directly.

4. Submit a High School Transcript:
Include your transcript showing your academic record through the most recent semester.

5. Submit a College Acceptance Letter:
Provide proof of acceptance to a college or university where you plan to pursue a degree in a relevant field.


We understand that some applicants may not yet be accepted or enrolled at a college or university at the time of application. However, we encourage you to share your educational plans with us. You are still eligible to be considered for the scholarship.

If selected, you will be recognized at our annual meeting as a scholarship recipient. Once you have been accepted and enrolled in a college or university, please submit your enrollment documentation to us, and we will process your scholarship award at that time.

Application Deadline:

All application materials must be submitted by January 6th, 2025. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Submission Instructions:

  • Submit the completed application form, essay, letter of recommendation, transcript, and college acceptance letter to:
    Sullivan County Soil and Water Conservation District
    3316 N. Section St.
    Sullivan, IN 47882
    Email: sullivan-swcd@iaswcd.org
    Phone: (812)-268-5157 x3

  • Important Note for Email Submissions:
    If submitting via email, use "SWCD Scholarship Application" as the subject line and send it from a personal email account (NOT a school email).

  • Applications may also be submitted in person at the office to Kennedy Gofourth, District Coordinator.

Selection Criteria:

Applicants will be evaluated based on:

  • Academic achievement and commitment to pursuing a degree in a relevant field.

  • Quality and passion expressed in the essay.

  • Involvement in environmental and conservation-related activities.

  • Letter of recommendation highlighting leadership and character.

  • Alignment with the values of the Sullivan County SWCD.

Scholarship Application Form

Personal Information:

Name: ________________________________________
Address: ______________________________________
City, State, ZIP: ________________________________
Phone Number: _________________________________
Email Address (personal email only): _________________________________

High School Information:

High School Name: _______________________________
Graduation Date: ________________________________
Cumulative GPA: _________________________________ (Minimum of 2.8 GPA required)

Planned College/University:

Name of College/University: ________________________
Intended Major/Program: ___________________________
Expected Graduation Year: _________________________

Essay Response:

Please attach your 500-750 word essay addressing the questions listed in the application instructions.

Certification:

I certify that the information provided in this application is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that any false or incomplete information may result in disqualification from consideration for this scholarship.

Applicant Signature: ___________________________
Date: ______________________________________