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
Thompson, Laura K. Fund for Women in Business
The Laura K. Thompson Fund for Women in Business was established in November 2019. It offers financial support for Women in Business initiatives within The University of Akron College of Business. This fund was made possible by Laura Thompson, retired executive vice president and CFO for The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company, to encourage female students in business reach their full potential.
Mrs. Thompson joined Goodyear in 1983 and held other executive leadership positions, including vice president for business development and director of investor relations, during her 36-year tenure with the company. She was named to Treasury & Risk Magazine’s 2012 list of “30 Outstanding Women in Finance.”
Mrs. Thompson earned two degrees from The University of Akron -- a bachelor’s degree in 1987 in accounting and a master’s degree in 1992 in finance. She is a member of the College of Business Administration’s Advancement Council and recently was elected to the board of directors of Parker Hannifin and WESCO International.
Mrs. Thompson is a 2011 recipient of The Dr. Frank L. Simonetti Distinguished Business Alumni Award, which recognizes outstanding College of Business Administration alumni for their remarkable business achievements and significant community contributions.
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