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
Williamson, Robert O. and Gwen L. Scholarship for Excellence
The Robert O. and Gwen L. Williamson Scholarship for Excellence was established in 1998 by Robert O. and Gwen L. Williamson. Mr. Williamson graduated from the University in 1939 with a bachelor of science in civil engineering and a commission as a second lieutenant, having been a member of R.O.T.C. He joined Burger Iron after graduation but was called to serve his country in World War II from 1942 to 1946 in the 102nd Division, assigned to the ETO. Captain Williamson returned to Burger Iron, served in various capacities and in 1966 was elected president. A member of the National Society of Professional Engineers, Mr. Williamson also served as a member of the Board of Directors of Firestone Bank and Akron Equipment Company. He was recognized by the University for his many achievements with an Alumni Honor Award in 1980. This scholarship is to be awarded as part of the Scholarship for Excellence program for students at The University of Akron College of Engineering.
​