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
Hastler Sr., Russell C. Endowed Memorial Scholarship in Education
The Russell C. Hastler Sr. Endowed Memorial Scholarship in Education was created in 2003 by his daughter, Evelyn Hastler Kiefer. Mr. Hastler developed polio at age 16, was left with a paralyzed arm, and subsequently turned down a scholarship to study social work. He married and had seven children, one of whom was adopted. Mr. Hastler was hired by the Works Progress Administration and established a troupe that showcased the talents of disabled individuals and helped many individuals achieve their potential and fulfill their dreams.
Mr. Hastler taught his children humility, tolerance, acceptance, and that life is what you make it. Four of his surviving six children graduated from The University of Akron and one received a law degree from the University. One achieved a top national score on the CPA accreditation test and another received two master’s degrees (from another higher education institution).
This scholarship will be awarded annually to a College of Education student with preference given to an early childhood education major and/or a student with a disability. The recipient will be chosen by the College of Education’s Office of Student Affairs in conjunction with the Office of Financial Aid.