Matthew was a strong believer in education, in its power to inspire and prepare young people to achieve great things. At the time of his murder, he was studying Political Science and International Affairs at the University of Wyoming. Matthew knew that thru education he would be able to accomplish his dreams to help people all over the world.
That is why it is so fitting that numerous scholarships have been created in his name and memory.
Numerous other scholarships have been created to honor Matthew's life by assisting gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and allied young people receive the education they deserve and need to continue to make a difference in the world.
While these additional scholarships are not programs of the Matthew Shepard Foundation, the Shepard Family and the Foundation are honored by their existence and support their efforts to encourage and support young GLBT and allied individuals.
If you are aware of any additional scholarships that should be listed here or would like to create a scholarship in Matthew's name/honor, please contact us and let us know.
IOWA'S MATTHEW SHEPARD SCHOLARSHIP
WEBSITE
Each year, the Iowa Matthew Shepard Scholarship Committee awards up to three scholarships covering tuition, fees and books, renewable for up four years, to openly gay and lesbian Iowa high school seniors, who have distinguished themselves in their schools and communities. Scholarship awards are based on academic aptitude, academic achievement, community service, and financial need.
Participating Universities: Iowa State University, The University of Iowa & The University of Northern Iowa
How to Apply: Applications are available online or contact:
Matthew Shepard Scholarship Committee
c/o Rich Eychaner Charitable Foundation
P.O. Box 1797
Des Moines, Iowa 50306-1797
(515) 262-0000
THE LEAGUE FOUNDATION MATTHEW SHEPARD SCHOLARSHIP
WEBSITE
Established in 1996, the LEAGUE Foundation -- a scholarship fund -- has awarded college scholarships to self-identified lesbian, gay, bisexual, or transgender (LGBT) high school students. These scholarships are available only to graduating U.S. high school seniors, based on the following achievements: a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; significant involvement in community service; and acceptance to an accredited U.S. college or university.
The Foundation is proud to offer the Matthew Shepard Scholarship. Since 1999 with the support of the Shepard family, the Foundation has honored Matthew's memory by awarding at least one scholarship to a student who had demonstrated leadership in promoting diversity and understanding in the community.
Originally, the Foundation began as a grass-roots organization with the generous support of LEAGUE members (Lesbian, Bisexual, Gay and Transgender United Employees at AT&T). But through the years, the organization has grown into a national scholarship fund reaching all 50 states with support from corporations, individuals, and other LGBT organizations.
How to Apply: Qualification and submission details can be found on the LEAGUE Foundation's website.
RAINBOW CONNECTION NETWORK MATTHEW SHEPARD SCHOLARSHIP
WEBSITE
The Rainbow Connection Network (RCN) honors Matthew's unwitting sacrifice with this scholarship, in the hopes that other young people may pursue the work they are certain he would have begun. The Rainbow Connection Network is pleased to announce the establishment of "The RCN Matthew Shepard Scholarship". The award will be available to students from the region known as Delaware Valley and Wyoming. Two scholarships of a minimum of $1,000 each will be awarded each year and are given to students who are self-identified LGBT, members of LGBT families, or allies who have been strongly supportive of the LGBT community. The scholarship emphasizes demonstrated commitment to human and civil rights for all people.
Participating Schools:
Students residing in the following NJ, PA and DE counties are eligible:
New Jersey: Mercer, Camden, Burlington, Gloucester, Salem, and Cumberland Counties.
Pennsylvania: Philadelphia, Bucks. Montgomery, Chester and Delaware Counties
Delaware: New Castle, Kent and Sussex Counties.
Wyoming: Statewide. Preference will be given to a student currently attending or planning to attend the University of Wyoming or one of it's two year satellite institutions.
How to Apply: For more information check out RCN's website or email them.
RIO GRANDE ADELANTE MATTHEW SHEPARD SCHOLARSHIP
WEBSITE
Rio Grande Adelante (RGA) established this scholarship in 2000 to provide funding to empower to GLBT students and assist them in completing their education. The goal of establishing the scholarship is to provide not only financial assistance; but also an environment of respect and dignity, which is often overshadowed by discrimination and diversity. It is only fitting that RGA named the scholarship after Matthew Shepard who was murdered because of anti-gay hatred. The scholarship is a means of carrying out not only Matthew's legacy; but also his values of respect and dignity for others.
Participating Schools: Any University, Community College or Trade School in the El Paso/Las Cruces/Juarez area
How to Apply: An application can be found on RGA's website or your can email RGA for more information.
WEBER STATE UNIVERSITY MATTHEW SHEPARD SCHOLARSHIP
WEBSITE
Weber State University (WSU) set up this scholarship to educate individuals about issues concerning the rights of gay, lesbian and bisexual persons, but also to help to bring about an atmosphere of support and nurturing for students at WSU who identify themselves as other than heterosexual. With that in mind they have set up the Matthew Shepard Memorial scholarship which will serve to help sexual minority students fulfill their educational goals so that they too might continue to educate others. This is an annual scholarship and is a cash award of $2,000.
