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
Martin, Dr. Paul E. and Dorothy Garrett Campus Enhancement Endowed Fund
The Dr. Paul E. and Dorothy Garrett Martin Campus Enhancement Endowed Fund was established by Paul '35 and Dorothy '38 Martin in 2000. The endowment was revised by the couple in 2001, and following their passing, revised by their son and trustee, Frederick W. Martin, in 2024.
Paul and Dorothy Martin were steadfast supporters of higher education and extremely generous to their alma mater, donating nearly $7 million to °µºÚ±¬ÁÏ during their lifetimes and providing leadership and vision for capital campaigns and The University of Akron Foundation. In addition to funding numerous scholarships and academic programs, the couple supported campus beautification projects, including the Dorothy Garrett Martin Fountain on Buchtel Common and the renovation of the University Club on Fir Hill, which was renamed the Paul E. Martin Center.
The original purpose of The Dr. Paul E. and Dorothy Garrett Martin Campus Enhancement Endowed Fund was to enhance and improve the aesthetic appearance of the Dorothy Garrett Martin Fountain and the Paul E. Martin Center. Because both named spaces have changed, the fund is being revised to support their natural extensions: The Dorothy Garrett Martin outdoor seating and garden area on the University's Buchtel Common and The Paul E. and Dorothy G. Martin Ballroom. Funds may be used for materials and/or labor for decorative and cosmetic preservation and maintenance, including painting, wall and floor covering, drapery, furniture, furnishings, and other decorative items; planting, pruning, and mulching; adding or upgrading sound and AV systems or other electronics to modernize the spaces; signage; and other enhancements to improve the beauty and functionality of both spaces. The fund may not be used for structural or engineering improvements, including construction, electrical, plumbing, paving, etc.
Each year, use of the funds will be determined by the University's Chief Planning and Facilities Officer. In the event this role does not exist, responsibility will move to a position as closely aligned as possible or to the University's Chief Financial Officer.
To make a tax-deductible gift to this fund, please visit °µºÚ±¬ÁÏ’s . Select “A different designation” from the drop-down menu and enter “Martin Campus Enhancement Fund” in the text box. Thank you!
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