Scholarship Overview

The Samuel Risby Memorial Scholarship was established to honor the legacy, perseverance, and educational aspirations of Samuel Risby. This scholarship is dedicated to supporting community college students who are determined to continue their education at a four-year college or university despite financial, personal, or life challenges.

Inspired by Mr. Risby’s own journey pursuing a degree in Engineering, the scholarship recognizes students who embody resilience, ambition, academic dedication, and a commitment to building a better future for themselves and their communities.

Vision

To empower community college students to pursue higher education with confidence, purpose, and determination by providing opportunities that inspire academic achievement, personal growth, and lifelong impact through continued education at four-year institutions.

Mission

The Samuel Risby Memorial Scholarship exists to support and encourage community college students who aspire to further their education at a four-year college or university. Through financial assistance, mentorship, and recognition of academic perseverance, the scholarship seeks to honor Samuel Risby’s legacy by investing in students who demonstrate resilience, ambition, leadership, and a commitment to creating a brighter future for themselves and their communities.

Scholarship Purpose

The purpose of the Samuel Risby Memorial Scholarship is to:

• Support community college students transitioning to four-year institutions

• Encourage academic perseverance and personal growth

• Assist students facing financial or personal barriers to higher education

• Promote leadership, resilience, and community involvement

• Honor the enduring legacy and educational aspirations of Samuel Risby

Award Details

• Scholarship Name: Samuel Risby Memorial Scholarship

• Award Amount: $500

• Eligibility: Community college students transferring to a four-year college or university

• Number of Recipients: 1 Award 

• Scholarship Type: One-time or renewable award based on funding and academic progress

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be currently enrolled at an accredited community college

• Plan to transfer to a four-year college or university

• Maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher

• Demonstrate financial need, academic determination, and personal resilience

• Submit proof of acceptance or intent to enroll at a four-year institution

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

1. Completed scholarship application

2. Official community college transcript

3. One letter of recommendation from a professor, advisor, employer, or mentor

4. Resume highlighting academic achievements, leadership, work experience, and community involvement

5. Personal essay (500 word)

Video Prompt

“Describe the challenges you have faced in pursuing your education and how those experiences have shaped your determination to continue your academic journey at a four-year institution. How do you plan to use your education to positively impact your future and your community?”

Selection Criteria

Recipients will be selected based on:

• Academic perseverance and commitment

• Leadership potential and character

• Financial need

• Community involvement and service

• Quality of essay submission

• Alignment with the scholarship’s mission and values

Scholarship Motto

“Perseverance Through Education. Legacy Through Opportunity.”

Closing Statement

The Samuel Risby Memorial Scholarship believes that every student deserves the opportunity to continue their educational journey and fulfill their potential. By investing in hardworking and determined community college students, this scholarship honors Samuel Risby’s legacy and empowers future generations to overcome obstacles, pursue excellence, and create meaningful impact through education.