Named scholarships & funds
When it comes to earning a college degree, the greatest obstacle can be funding.
For this reason, The University of Akron is pleased for the opportunity each year to assist talented, deserving students achieve their dreams, thanks to more than 1,300 named scholarships established through the kindness and generosity of thousands of °µºÚ±¬ÁÏ alumni and friends, corporations, and foundations.
Scholarships truly are the best way to ensure that today’s students persist to graduation. Scholarships allow students to enroll full time and remain focused on their studies; they also reduce drop-out rates, decrease the stress of student loans, and shorten the road to graduation.
If you are interested in making a significant contribution to student success, please consider a gift to scholarships. You may also establish a named scholarship at The University of Akron, which can be created to honor a living person, in memory of a loved one, or to contribute to the growth of an area of study.
To learn more, please contact the Department of Development at 330-972-7238.
How do I apply for a scholarship?
This is not the page to apply for scholarships.
Students who want to apply for scholarships should visit the scholarship page on the Financial Aid site. You can find the link for the online application here.
The Department of Development does not accept applications for or distribute scholarships. Scholarships are distributed through the University’s Office of Student Financial Aid.
Search for a Named Scholarship
Miles-Thompson Memorial Endowed Scholarship
The Miles-Thompson Memorial Endowed Scholarship was established in 2019 by Janet and Gerald Thompson for University of Akron students Medina Campus and Wayne College. Dr. Janet Thompson, a full-time °µºÚ±¬ÁÏ faculty member for 25 years, has been a leading voice for students. The example of her numerous service-learning projects, which favorably shaped so many of her students' lives, is the impetus for establishing this scholarship. Her dedication to education began at an early age, ignited by her parents who were the first college graduates in both of their families. Her father, Harold Miles, graduated with a degree in engineering, specializing in bridge construction. His designs can still be seen along Ohio roads. Bridges have been an important element in the Miles-Thompson household, whether literally providing safe passage for travelers or figuratively helping students bridge gaps in knowledge. The MilesThompson household knows that education is a journey that never actually ends, and that we all need a little help along the way.
Eligible Miles-Thompson Memorial Endowed Scholarship recipients can be either full-time or part-time students with financial need. First preference is for students enrolled at the °µºÚ±¬ÁÏ Medina, campus, followed by those enrolled at Wayne College. Applicants must also be STEMM majors, with first consideration given to nursing and engineering majors. Recipient selection will be determined annually by the Wayne College financial aid committee. A family member may review the final application as part of the process.
The scholarship may be renewable, provided the recipient continues to meet the criteria and remains in good academic standing. Subsequent scholarship amounts and the number of scholarships distributed may vary depending on available funds.
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