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
Ciammaichella, Michael J. and Donna L. Endowed Scholarship
The Michael J. and Donna L. Ciammaichella Endowed Scholarship was established by Michael J. and Donna L. Ciammaichella in February 2019.
Michael Ciammaichella graduated from The University of Akron in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. While a student, Michael participated in extracurricular activities as a varsity wrestler, worked for Intramural Sports and was active as a member of Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity. Through these efforts, he gained valuable leadership skills that have served him well in his career. After graduation, Michael joined the Ohio Department of Transportation as a project engineer, then joined Geupel Construction Company, Inc., where he rose to the position of senior estimator.
Michael excelled in his career with several civil construction and environmental companies, including the E.S. Wagner Company, the Pro-Terra Environmental Company and Performance Site Environmental. He is currently a division vice president with The Ruhlin Company. Michael serves on the Board of Directors for the Ohio Contractors Association and serving as Board Chairman in 2020. Michael’s additional professional affiliations include The University of Akron IDEAs Advisory Council, the Construction Employees Association of Cleveland, and service as a Management Trustee for the Teamsters - Ohio Contractors Association Health and Welfare Fund. Michael is a certified professional Engineer in West Virginia and Ohio.
Donna Ciammaichella graduated from The University of Akron in 1985 with an Associate of Applied Business degree in Business Management Technology – Banking Option. Donna graduated with distinction, and as a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Following graduation, Donna worked in banking with First Merit Bank, serving in Retail Banking, as well as in the Trust Division. After relocating to Columbus, Ohio, she was a retail sales representative for Johnson & Johnson, and later a legal assistant/tax preparer at Millard Pope & Associates and Pope Law. After gaining additional experience as a tax preparer with Ron Lykins CPA’s in Westerville, Ohio, she now continues in her current role as a client relations coordinator with the firm.
The Michael J. and Donna L. Ciammaichella Endowed Scholarship shall be awarded to University of Akron civil engineering students, with first consideration given to students demonstrating a strong work ethic, outstanding leadership and involvement with student activities and/or sports. Recipient selection will be made by The University of Akron Scholarship Committee.
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