The Healdsburg Rotary Club Scholarship ProgramThrough the Rotary Club of Healdsburg's Scholarship Program, we focus on supporting the continuing education of our local youth. This is a major objective of Rotary. At the same time, we effectively reinvest some of our annual fundraising proceeds back into Healdsburg for the ultimate benefit of the entire community.The Scholarship Program is administered by a special Scholarship Program Committee whose members are appointed by the Club's Board of Directors. The Committee is responsible for recruiting scholarship candidates; for screening and interviewing applicants, and for selecting our award recipients. The Chairmen of the Scholarship Program Committee work closely with the Board of Directors on Program objectives and overall administrative policy.Here is more information about our Scholarship Program in a FAQ format.What kind of Rotary Scholarships are awarded?We have three types of Scholarships:
- Academic: Given to a Healdsburg High School graduating senior entering a four-year university, or attending a community college with the intent to transfer to a four year university program.
- Vocational: Given to a Healdsburg High School graduating senior entering a two-year vocational program at a community college or a trade/technical school.
- Health Care Studies: Given to a re-entry student studying at Santa Rosa Junior College who will be focusing on a career in the Health Care field.
How many Scholarships does the Program give each year?We typically award 10 to 12 scholarships of $500 to $1000 to Healdsburg High School graduating seniors. We give approximately 3 scholarships of $1,000 each to recipients of our Health Care Studies awards.What are the eligibility standards for a Rotary Scholarship?To be eligible for a Scholarship, a student must be in the current graduating class of Healdsburg High School and a resident of the Healdsburg area for the past two years.What are the criteria for choosing a Rotary Scholarship recipient?The following, equally weighted, selection factors are used:
Academic performance.
Clearly defined objectives incorporated in a plan of action to achieve them.
Demonstrated work experience, particularly if related to career objectives.
Financial need.
Participation in school activities and team sports. Special consideration is given for an applicant's volunteer work with community service projects.
The impression of the applicant from a personal interview.ve policies.
Where does money for the Rotary Scholarship Program come from?The Scholarship Program is supported with part of the proceeds of our Annual Crab Feed. Each year the Club's Board of Directors determines a specific dollar amount for the Scholarship Program through the Club's yearly budgeting process.What are named scholarships?From time to time, the Club's Board of Directors will establish a Named Scholarship to honor the special achievements of a current or former Club member. The Scholarship Program Committee recommends the specific purpose and criteria for each of these scholarships which are then approved by the Board of DirectorsCurrently we have four Named Scholarships for Healdsburg or Geyserville High School graduating seniors
The Bruce Campbell Scholarship, given to a student focusing on a career in agriculture,
The Jerry Eddinger Scholarship, given to a student with outstanding community service work,
The Jack McCarley Scholarship, given to a student who would make an outstanding future Rotarian,
The David & Cathy Anderson Scholarship, awarded to a student concentrating on a career in the health care profession.
Is there an endowment fund for the Rotary Scholarship Program?Yes, there is. In July 2006, the IRS approved non-profit 501(c)3 tax-exempt status for the Fund, As a result any gifts, bequests or contributions to the Scholarship Fund will be tax deductible.As of May 2008, the Fund balance was approximately $155,000. The current policy of the Club Board of Directors is to reinvest the annual interest earned on the Fund in order to allow it to grow. If funds are available, a minimum of 5% of the net proceeds of the Crab Feed & Auction will be added to this Fund. The Club's Board of Directors are committed to grow the Scholarship Fund to $250,000 over the next five years.How may I contribute to the Healdsburg Rotary Scholarship Fund?Checks may be made payable to "Rotary Scholarship Fund," and mailed to: Rotary Club of Healdsburg P. O. Box 671 Healdsburg, CA 95448How is the Rotary Scholarship Program run?On an annual basis, the Board confirms appointments to the Scholarship Committee. In mid-March of each year, the Scholarship Committee reviews the applications from Healdsburg High School seniors and selects up to 24 candidates for a personal interview. The Committee meets with each of the candidates in April, and then chooses the scholarship winners based on their application materials and their interview. The scholarships are given in May at Healdsburg High's Scholarship Awards night. The scholarship recipients are invited to attend a Club luncheon in June to talk briefly about their college plans.What are the future goals for the Healdsburg Rotary Scholarship Fund?The long term goal of the Rotary Club of Healdsburg is to increase the capital of the Scholarship Fund. The Club's Board is developing a plan to seek major contributions and bequests for the Fund from Rotarians and other community members.When the Scholarship Fund becomes large enough, the annual investment returns earned on its principal can be used for larger one-year or multi-year scholarships.Rob JacobiScholarship Program ChairmanRotary Club of Healdsburg