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
Dennison, Jim and Sue Scholarship in Football
The Jim and Sue Dennison Scholarship in Football was established to honor the winningest head coach in Zips football history. Established with initial gifts by friends, former student-athletes, and coaches who worked with Jim Dennison, the scholarship will assist student-athletes who personify the ideals of tenacity, determination, and commitment to excellence.
Dennison was head coach of the Zips from 1973 to 1985, leading Akron to the finals of the 1976 NCAA Division II playoffs, and was named the Kodak National Coach of the Year. Dennison, who finished with an 80-62-2 overall record, was named associate athletics director in 1985 before serving as athletics director from 1986 until 1993. As AD, he helped Akron become the first school to transition from NCAA Division I-AA to I-A, and he spearheaded its move to the Mid-American Conference.
Dennison’s philosophy was simple: PMA – Positive Mental Attitude! It has always been his way of life. “Our players believe in themselves and attack obstacles positively with a never-say-die attitude.” A refusal to quit and great determination to succeed became Dennison trademarks.
Dennison built a solid football program based primarily on Ohio-bred players who were solid student-athletes and good citizens. Families trusted their sons to Dennison, a man of his word who stood behind his promises.
The Jim and Sue Dennison Scholarship in Football will go to a student-athlete leader on the Zips football team who displays Positive Mental Attitude and trademark Dennison toughness. It will go to a student-athlete who believes in team above self and presents himself as an example for teammates to follow.
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