GCEF Scholarship Fund now accepting scholarship applications
Scholarship funds available for LGBTQ+ and allied students throughout Greater Akron
The GCEF Scholarship Fund of Akron Community Foundation is now accepting scholarship applications from LGBTQ+ and allied students who make a meaningful difference in the community.
Established by the Gay Community Endowment Fund in 2012, the GCEF Scholarship Fund awards postsecondary academic scholarships to LGBTQ+ and allied students who live or study in Summit, Medina, Portage, Stark and Wayne counties. Since its founding, the fund has awarded more than $70,000 in scholarships to area students.
"Financial support for my education allows me to continue the advocacy on campus for resources for LGBT students, as well as allowing me to one day do social justice work in my chosen field of study, anthropology," said Lilliah Bitecofer, a two-time GCEF Scholarship recipient.
Scholarship applications are due by March 1. A link to the online application and instructions for applying are available at akroncf.org/students. Priority is given to students who participate in organizations or initiatives that make a positive impact in the LGBTQ+ community. Previous applicants must reapply annually by submitting a new application.
For more information about the GCEF Scholarship Fund and how to apply, contact Scholarship Administrator Liz Szczukowski at 330-436-5615. Community members can also invest in the next generation of LGBTQ+ students and allies by donating to the GCEF Scholarship Fund at akroncf.org/give/GCEFScholarship.
About the GCEF Scholarship Fund
The Gay Community Endowment Fund of Akron Community Foundation established the GCEF Scholarship Fund in 2012 to provide scholarships for LGBTQ+ and allied students who live or attend school in the geographic area served by the fund, including Summit, Medina, Portage, Stark and Wayne counties. To date, the fund has awarded more than $70,000 in scholarships to students across Greater Akron. For more information about the scholarship fund, including eligibility and renewal requirements, visit akroncf.org/students.
About the Gay Community Endowment Fund
Founded in 2001, the Gay Community Endowment Fund is a permanent philanthropic endowment of Akron Community Foundation. The fund supports the Greater Akron LGBTQ+ community by providing grants and scholarships that enhance the right to live safely, openly and authentically. Since its inception, the fund has grown to nearly $2.9 million while reinvesting nearly $920,000 into the community. Contributions of any amount are welcome and support future grantmaking. Checks should be sent to Akron Community Foundation, 345 W. Cedar St., Akron, OH 44307, with Gay Community Endowment Fund in the memo line. Donations may also be designated for the GCEF Scholarship Fund. For more information, or to contribute, call 330-376-8522 or visit gaycommunityfund.org.