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2024-2025 Graduate Bulletin > Policies and General Information > Financial Policies and Information > Scholarships and Financial Aid > Scholarships

Scholarships

Contact the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid for more information on the following awards and scholarships.

Scholarships for the College of Medicine

See College of Medicine for scholarships for medical students.

Scholarship Program

Applications for scholarships open each year in January for admitted students taking classes in the upcoming academic year beginning with the Fall semester. The number of scholarships and the amount awarded varies each year based on the availability of funds. Applications are open through the end of March.

Scholarship applicants who are receiving or plan to receive Federal Financial Aid by application through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) should be advised that receipt of a scholarship will affect any federal aid eligibility that has already been packaged and/or disbursed or federal aid eligibility that will be packaged for the semester(s) in which the scholarship award is made. Federal Direct Student Loans are considered federal financial aid. Scholarships available to only Global Campus students are indicated in their descriptions below.

AAUW – M. Ruth Evans Memorial Prize

Established in 1991 by Jackie M. Evans and members of the M. Ruth Evans family and members of the Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) in memory of M. Ruth Evans, their friend, mother and wife. Endowment earnings will provide an annual stipend to a CMU sophomore, junior or senior or graduate student who has been a resident of Isabella County for two or more years who has a GPA of 2.86 or higher.

Frank N. Andersen Foundation Endowed Medical Scholarship

Established in 2019 by the Frank N. Anderson Foundation to support a renewable award for third or fourth-year medical students that are enrolled in the College of Medicine who are continuing their studies in Saginaw.

Maude Eloise Anderson Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2023 by The Estate of B. Thomas Willison to honor his mother, Maude Eloise Anderson ’32.  Eloise earned her Life Teaching Certificate at CMU in 1932.  Tom also attended CMU earning his Bachelor of Arts in 1963 and an Honorary Doctor of Commercial Science in 1990 in recognition of his accomplishments.  He served as a soldier in the 101st Airborne.  Tom was a world class investment advisor and consultant, retiring after a long, successful career.  He passed away in 2022.  This renewable scholarship will support Undergraduate or Graduate recipients from Lake County, Michigan who are pursuing any degree or major.  Recipients must have a cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5 and demonstrate financial need.  Preference will be given to recipients that graduated from Baldwin Senior High School in Baldwin, MI.

Jack and Patricia Anson Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2005 by Todd '77 and Teresa ’74 Anson in honor of Jack '50 and Patricia '47 Anson.  Income from the endowment will be used to support an undergraduate or graduate scholarship for a graduate of Mount Pleasant Public Schools. The recipient must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

William S. Ballenger, III and Dr. William P. Browne Capitol Internship Program Endowment

Established in 2007 by friends and family of William S. Ballenger, III and Dr. William P. Brown, former CMU employees, to honor their service and dedication in the area of political science at CMU. This endowment recognizes Bill Ballenger’s service as the Robert and Marjorie Griffin Endowed Chair in American Government from 2003-2007. The endowment also honors Dr. Bill Browne as a respected friend, colleague, and mentor to the Political Science and Public Administration department and the College of Humanities and Social and Behavioral Sciences. Income from the endowment will support a renewable internship for an undergraduate or graduate student enrolled in the political science academic program or who has an interest in the study of political science and, who has a minimum GPA of at least 3.0.

Stephen Barstow Memorial Art Prize

This renewable scholarship will be awarded to an outstanding undergraduate or graduate student who is a member of a state or federally recognized tribe majoring in art, enrolled at CMU. The applicant must have a cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher for a freshman, 3.00 or higher in Art for transfer or CMU students. The applicant must submit samples or slides of art work along with a statement of their creative achievements and goals. Applications and guidelines are available at the Department of Art. If no recipients are eligible, may be awarded to any art major.

Betty A. Brubaker Family of Heroes Scholarship

Established in 2014 by Steven A. Rellinger ’85, ‘96, family and friends in honor of his mother, Betty A. Brubaker and also John Sheets, Don Rellinger and Herman Wright, members of the United States Military. Income from the endowment will support an award for currently enrolled CMU students that are personnel of the U.S. Armed Forces, National Guard, reserves, or honorably discharged veterans, and/or their respective family members. The recipient(s) must be eligible for Veterans Administration (VA) educational entitlement under chapters 30, 31, 33, 35, 1606 or 1607 and provide a copy of his or her VA Certificate of Eligibility. Recipients also must have a cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5 for undergraduate students and 3.0 for graduate students.

Mary Lou Bruce Scholarship

Established in 1983 by Lieutenant Colonel Gene D. Bruce and friends in memory of Mary Lou, a dedicated military wife and a valued member of the military science and health education families and Mount Pleasant community, for a junior, senior or graduate student majoring in health education and health science who has earned a 3.0 or higher GPA.

The Harry J. Brunet Specialist in Education Scholarship

Established in 2022 by the Brunet and Foiles families in memory of Harry J. Brunet
'56, '81. Harry had a long career in teaching, coaching, and administration in public education. Qualified recipients must be pursuing a Specialist in Education degree in General Educational Administration (Ed.S) in the Pk-12 Educational Leadership Program in the Department of Counseling, Educational Leadership and Higher Education within the College of Education and Human Services.

Richard & Colleen Burns Scholarship

Established in 2013 by Richard, 1960, and Colleen Burns, to honor Julia Egan Burns, 1902. The recipient will be a graduate student pursuing a career as a physician assistant and enrolled in The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Profession’s Physician Assistant Program with a minimum GPA of 3.0. In the event there are no applicants within the PA program, it could be received by an undergraduate with intentions of entering the PA program. Preference will be given to a student with the greatest financial need from one of the following Mid-Michigan area schools: St. Johns, DeWitt, Westphalia, Fowler, Pewamo, Hubbardston, Carson City, Perrington, Ashley, Ovid-Elsie. The scholarship may be renewable for up to two years.

Jon and Elaine Caswell Family Scholarship

Established in 2018 by Jon ’64 and Elaine Caswell, in honor of David Nicholson ’64. Income from this renewable award will support a part-time or full-time student at CMU who is a single parent or to a student from a single parent household. Recipient must demonstrate financial need with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference will be given to applicants who distinguished themselves in the advancement of underrepresented groups in American society.

Dr. Angela Freymuth Caveney Dissertation Endowment

Established in 2020 by Dr. Angela Freymuth Caveney ’96, ’98, ’02 and Mr. Forest Caveney in the Department of psychology within the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. Award will be used to facilitate graduate research in clinical psychology and behavioral neuroscience by providing funding for dissertation research. Applicants will be graduate students in good standing within either the clinical psychology or behavioral neuroscience programs and admitted to doctoral candidacy. Candidate must also have a dissertation proposal that has been approved by the full dissertation committee.

CDO-SLP Alumni Scholarship

Established in 1998 through alumni support, for a second-year graduate student in the Speech/Language Pathology Program in the Department of Communication Disorders.

Central Michigan University General Scholarship Endowment 

Established in 2020 from the estate of Robert and Mary Elizabeth Byram ‘45. Mrs. Byram earned her Central Michigan University Bachelor of Science in Home Economics in 1945. During her time here she was the Student Body President for two years. Income from this endowment will support a general scholarship fund, for an endowment to provide scholarships for its students.

CMU Women’s Connection Scholarship

Established in 2007 by CMU Women’s Connection donors. This association provides a platform for alumnae and friends to be actively engaged in the advancement of the university and to promote enhanced learning opportunities for CMU students. Income from this renewable award will support a part-time or full-time student at CMU who is a single parent* or to a student from a single parent* household. Recipient must demonstrate financial need with a minimum GPA of 2.75. (*“single parent” defined as a sole parental figure who shoulders the day-to-day responsibilities of raising a child without any assistance, financial or otherwise, from the other parent or partner, regardless of current or previous marital status to one another).

Norman Cohen Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 2022 by the estate of Norman Cohen after he and his surviving wife passed away, in 2006 and 2021 respectively.  This gift will honor Norman's career and lifelong contributions, most notably his service to the Department of Defense, as well as his educational pursuits through CMU’s Global Campus by supporting students who follow in his footsteps. Qualified recipients must be enrolled within the Central Michigan University Global Campus and must have a cumulative minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. First preference is given to student(s) pursuing a Master of Science in Administration (MSA) degree with a concentration in Leadership or Logistics and Acquisition (or their equivalent), who are actively employed by the Department of Defense, and/or have been Honorably Discharged Veterans of the U.S. Military Services, and/or are currently serving in the Military active-duty guard or active reserve. Second preference is given to student(s) pursuing a Master of Science in Administration (MSA) degree who are actively employed by the Department of Defense, and/or have been Honorably Discharged Veterans of the U.S. Military Services, and/or are currently serving in the Military active-duty guard or active reserve. Third preference is given to student(s) pursuing a Master of Science in Administration (MSA) degree with a concentration in Leadership or Logistics and Acquisition (or their equivalent). Fourth preference is given to student(s) pursuing a Master of Science in Administration (MSA) degree. The scholarship may be renewed up to one time following the initial award, up to 2 times total, and qualified recipients must be enrolled in a minimum of six credit hours.

The George C. Comden Endowed Scholarship in Educational Leadership

Established in 2023 by Mr. George C. Comden, '60, '61, '64 to benefit students pursuing a graduate degree in PK-12 or Higher Education in the Department of Educational Leadership within the College of Education and Human Services.  Preference will be given to students who are a U.S. Military Veteran, or are currently serving as Active Duty, Reserve or National Guard.  The scholarship may be renewed up to one time following the initial award.

Computer Science Endowment

Established 2005. The spendable income from this endowment may be used for scholarships for undergraduate or graduate students, student awards, professional events in the department, and other necessary purchases for the benefit of the Computer Science Department. If used for a scholarship for undergraduates, the students must be a sophomore or junior, an authorized CPS or ITC major (Computer Science or Information Technology), and have a minimum 3.3 GPA. Graduate Students must be an authorized major in CPS MS. The award is renewable.

Blanche Connell Scholarship

Established in 1988 by Southeastern Michigan Hospital Purchasing Management, Inc., in honor of Blanche Connell, for a CMU Global Campus student pursuing a Master of Science in Administration degree with a concentration in Health Services Administration. Applicants must have successfully completed a minimum of nine credit hours and earned a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference is given to residents of the seven (7) county area of southeastern Michigan including Lapeer, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, St. Clair, Washtenaw, and Wayne.

Paul David Cratin Physical Chemistry Graduate Student Endowed Award

Established in 2000 to honor Paul David Cratin, former professor. Proceeds from the endowment will be used to establish an award for a graduate student enrolled in the masters degree program in the area of physical chemistry.

Davies Family Endowed Fund

Established in 2019 by President Robert O. Davies, his spouse, Mrs. Cindy Davies and their daughter Kaitlyn. Income from this endowment will support a renewable award for a full-time student regardless of major or field of study. The recipient will embody the traits upon which Central Michigan University was founded, and which appear on the university’s seal: Sapientia (Wisdom), Virtus (Virtue), and Amicitia (Friendship). Examples of such traits include (but are not limited to): Civic Leadership, Volunteerism, Academic Achievement, Honors or Recognition within a Field of Study.

Dr. Dan C. Dean Endowed Medical Scholarship

Established in 2022 by James Shannon Dean ’96 in memory of his father, Dr. Dan C. Dean, in order to honor him and to encourage new medical students to serve as he did.  Dr. Dean served the medical needs of the Mt. Pleasant area for 42 years as a family practice physician. Recipient(s) will be a student in the CMU College of Medicine with an interest in pursuing a career in the primary care field, demonstrating financial need. First preference will be given to recipient(s) who are residents of the State of Michigan.

Joyce and Gary DeWitt Endowed Scholarship

Established by the DeWitt family in 2007 for students pursuing a graduate or undergraduate degree through Central Michigan University’s Global Campus. Applicants must have successfully completed a minimum of twelve (12) credit hours and have earned a minimum GPA of 3.0. Recipient must be enrolled in a minimum of two courses during the year the scholarship is awarded. Preference will be given to students who are residents of the greater Grand Rapids/Holland, Michigan area.

Margaret M. and Richard E. Doone Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2017 by Margaret M. and Richard E. Doone ‘89.  Income from the endowment will support a nonrenewable award for graduate student(s) that resides within the state of Ohio.  Recipient must be enrolled in the Global Campus program and pursuing a graduate level degree with a cumulative minimum GPA of 3.0.  Half-time attendance per semester (or comparable units) is allowed. 

J. Dean and Betty L. Eckersley Audiology Scholarship

Established in 1996 as a renewable scholarship for a graduate status audiology student within the Department of Communication Disorders who earned a minimum GPA of 3.5 as a senior with financial need as determined by CMU. Preference will be given to students from Isabella County, other counties of Michigan and transfer students from Mid-Michigan Community College who were recipients of the J. Dean and Betty L. Eckersley Scholarship. Application may be made through the Department of Communication Disorders.

Educational Leadership Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2016 by faculty, staff, emeriti, alumni and friends of the Department of Educational Leadership to support student learning experiences related to coursework such as professional development, international travel, or course tuition. Recipients will be currently enrolled in a Department of Educational Leadership degree program; undergraduate minor, graduate program or doctoral program, and must be in good standing with the department and the university. Preference will be given to applicants that connect their experience to advancing the mission of the Department of Educational Leadership.

Richard D. Featheringham Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2005 by Dr. Richard '81, '84 and Audrey Featheringham. Income from the endowment will support a renewable scholarship for an undergraduate or graduate student with a major or minor in organ and a minimum GPA of 3.0. The student must audition with the School of Music.

Bud Fisher and Fisher Companies Study Abroad Scholarship

Established in 2005 by Bud Fisher and Fisher Companies. Income from the endowment will support a renewable scholarship for a student(s) who wishes to study abroad. The recipient(s) will be a sophomore or higher or a graduate student who has completed at least one semester of study, with a minimum GPA for an undergraduate of 2.7 and 3.2 for a graduate. Preference will be given to students studying in non-Western and non-English speaking countries. The recipient must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, demonstrate financial need, be enrolled full time at the time of the award and during the term of study abroad (one or two semesters), and fulfill the in-kind service requirement upon return.

Wasaburo Fujimiya Study Abroad Scholarship

Established in 2014 by Wasaburo Fujimiya ’66 for undergraduate and graduate students who wish to study abroad. The Donor wishes to support CMU students pursuing their education overseas and international students studying at CMU. Income from the endowment will support a renewable scholarship for student(s) in good academic standing with a 3.0 cumulative minimum GPA who chose to study in one of Central Michigan University’s Japanese or East Asian exchange partner program universities, and/or students from one of these exchange program universities studying at CMU. Recipient must be approved to study abroad through CMU and be enrolled full-time at the time of the award and during the term of study abroad.

Jack Furnari Memorial Leadership Award

Established in 2019 by friends and family in memory of Jack Furnari. Jack was a fourth year CMU medical student who passed away in 2016, due to complications of brain cancer. Jack positively influenced countless lives within the medical school and throughout the mid-Michigan community as he battled illness with unwavering grace and humility. The endowment will support an award for a first-year student enrolled in the College of Medicine and is intended to help support the purchase of at least one stethoscope or other appropriate medical equipment. Recipient will submit a statement the articulates their 1) sense of purpose in medical school; 2) the ways in which they will support their classmates; and 3) the mark they hope to leave on the CMU College of Medicine and broader mid-Michigan region.

William R. Gemma Memorial Scholarship

Established in 1999 in memory of CMU associate professor William R. Gemma, Ph.D., for Global Campus graduate students pursuing a degree in Health Services Administration, International Administration, or Public Administration. Student must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 and provide evidence that they have provided service to their profession and/or community.

General Dynamics Land Systems Military Scholarship

Established in 2008 by General Dynamics Land Systems in honor of members of the United States military. Applicant must be active duty personnel of the U.S. Armed Forces or immediate family member pursuing a doctoral, master’s, or bachelor’s degree through CMU’s Global Campus. Applicants must have successfully completed a minimum of six credit hours with CMU and earned a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Michael “Gio” Giordano Helping Professions Award

Established in 2013 by Michael “Gio” Giordano ’71, ’74, ’10 to recognize the impact of his educational experience at Central Michigan University and to provide for those who pursue the goal of helping others. Income from the endowment will support a renewable award for undergraduate students having earned junior status, or graduate students who have completed 12 hours of graduate credit, who have elected the field of social work; professional counseling or clinical psychology. Recipient must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 in their major course of study. The award will be given on the basis of an essay not to exceed 500 words on the topic of the role of a helping professional in creating client self-reliance.

Global Campus Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2001 by alumni and friends of CMU’s Global Campus for students pursuing a graduate or undergraduate degree. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference will be given to applicants who are single parents and/or unemployed.

Grand Traverse Alumni Chapter Scholarship

Established in 1992 through funds raised by alumni and friends in Grand Traverse County for undergraduate on-campus students and undergraduate or graduate Global Campus students (Traverse City Center) with demonstrated financial need. Students will be selected from five counties: Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau counties.

Barbara P. Greene Endowed Scholarship in Political Science

Established in 2004 by Sarah and Edward Cohen (daughter and son-in-law) and friends of Barbara Greene. Barbara was a professor and chair of the political science department prior to her death in 2001. Income from this endowment will support a scholarship for students enrolled in the Political Science and Public Administration department who have interest in state and local government. Recipient must possess a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. Preference will be given to a graduate student, followed by a senior or junior.

Dr. Jay and Diana Griesser Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2009 by Dr. Jay Griesser, a long-time CMU Global Campus adjunct professor, and wife Diana, in honor of members of the United States Military and Federal Service Employees. Applicants must be enrolled in an online program through CMU’s Global Campus with preference given to students enrolled in a program leading toward a graduate degree in Business or Information Technology. Applicants must have completed at least six (6) credit hours and earned a minimum 3.4 GPA. Eligibility is limited to active-duty U.S. military personnel and members of their immediate family, U.S. military personnel serving in active reserve status, and U.S. federal service employees.

John and Carol Grossa/ Roy and Joan Klopcic Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2018 by John and Carol Grossa and Roy ‘59 and Joan Klopcic ‘59. John and Carol are both retirees from CMU; John is a professor emeritus from CMU’s Geography Department and Carol retired from the office of Student Disability Services. Roy is a professor emeritus from CMU’s Geography Department and both he and Joan are 1959 alumni. Income from the endowment will support a renewable award for a full-time undergraduate or graduate demonstrating financial need. Recipient will be pursuing a degree in Geographic Information Services with the College of Science and Engineering.

Ahmad Hakemi Scholarship Fund for Physician Assistant Students

Established in 2013 by Robert Wintermyer ’05 and friends, to honor Dr. Ahmad Hakemi, for his hard work and commitment to Physician Assistants at CMU and nationwide. Income from this endowment will support an award for a full-time student enrolled majoring in the Physician Assistant Program within The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions. Recipient will have a minimum GPA of 3.4 demonstrating financial need.

Don and Mary Harter Family College of Medicine Endowment

Established in 2022 by Donald and Mary Harter ’65 to help alleviate financial burden of medical students upon graduation.  Income from this endowment will be for a renewable scholarship for a CMU student enrolled in the College of Medicine. 

Dr. W.E. and Idonea Hersee Memorial Medical Scholarship

Established in 2021 by Sandra and Dennis Olson in honor of Sandra’s parents, Dr. W.E. Hersee ‘31 and Idonea Lewis Hersee ‘31.  Dr. Hersee and his wife Idonea served the medical needs of the Mt. Pleasant area for 50 years and the Olsons would like to honor them and encourage new medical students to serve as they did by inspiring medical students to stay in Michigan and practice in underserved communities.  Scholarships will support a renewable award for a medical student enrolled in the College of Medicine.  The recipient must be from Michigan and express a strong interest in practicing in an underserved area.  

The Robert W. and Eileen E. Hesse Memorial Fund

Established in 2019 by The Robert W. and Eileen E. Hesse Memorial Fund. Available to students exclusively within the College of Medicine, this renewable award will support a medical student scholarship. The recipient(s) will be medical students (M1 -M4) with preference given to students based out of the Great Lakes Bay region or surrounding communities. 

Helen L. Hodges Scholarship Award

Established in 2015 by Russell ’78 and Barbara Scaffede in honor of Barbara’s mother, Helen L. Hodges, ’43 an early elementary teacher. Income from the endowment will support a renewable award for a student enrolled in CMU Global Campus who has an interest in the study of education and is a State of Michigan resident.

James E. Hornak Endowed Award

Established in 2009 by colleagues, former students, and family of Dr. James E. Hornak ’65, ’66, retired chairperson of the Department of Physical Education and Sport. Income from this endowment will support a renewable award for a student enrolled in a graduate degree program of the Department of Physical Education and Sport in The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions who has a minimum GPA of 3.3. If no recipients fit the criteria, it may be awarded to any signed major within the Department of Physical Education and Sport within The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions.

Jack-Rowe Scholarship

Established in 2016 by the estate of Madge J. ’50 and Edwin Rowe. Madge was a high school counselor and wanted to help students in the same way that she was helped. Income from this endowment will support a renewable award for a full-time student demonstrating financial need with a cumulative minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher.

Dr. Thomas and Mrs. Jayne Keating Athletic Training Program Scholarship

Income from this endowment will support a scholarship for a student entering his/her third semester in the professional phase of the Athletic Training Program in the School of Rehabilitation and Medical Sciences. The recipient must be full time with a signed major in Athletic Training with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Leadership skills, accomplishments, co-curricular activities, and financial need will also be considered.

Tricia Keith Endowed Fund for Study Abroad Experiences

Established in 2016 by Trustee Tricia Keith ‘93, CMU Board of Trustees. Income from this endowment will support a renewable award for a student participating in a study abroad program. The study abroad experience will last for a duration of at least one semester and the recipient must have a cumulative minimum GPA of 3.0. The study abroad experience will be international and focused upon an academic program or research experience. Destinations within the U.S. or alternative spring break (or similar) programs are not eligible.

The Dr. George E. and Mona Kikano Scholarship Fund

Dr. George E. Kikano, MD, became dean of the CMU College of Medicine in July 2015, and CMU vice president for Health Affairs in August 2018. He also serves as chairman of the board of CMU Medical Education Partners. Dean Kikano is passionately committed to teaching, community partnerships, access to care and the College’s mission to educate diverse students and train culturally competent physicians to provide comprehensive health care and services to under-served populations in Michigan and beyond. Reducing medical school debt makes it more financially feasible for new physicians to work in under-served communities so the creation of endowed scholarship funds for medical students is therefore a priority for CMED.  To be awarded to a student enrolled in the College of Medicine.

Dr. Donald Kilbourn Endowed Scholarship in Counseling

Established in 2021 by Margaret Ann Bogle ’79 in honor of Dr. Donald Kilbourn, the first Director for CMU’s Counseling Center.  Income from the endowment is intended to help a student pursue and graduate with a master’s degree in Counseling at Central Michigan University. The hope is to produce counselors that resemble the same skill and passion as that of Don Kilbourn. According to Dr. Kilbourn’s past colleagues, he excelled at building strong, trustworthy relationships and always had a deep passion for helping everyone with whom he came in contact. Recipients will be students currently enrolled in the master’s level Counseling Program in the College of Education & Human Services. Students pursuing completion in either single or dual concentration plan are eligible.  First preference given to those students pursuing the Addiction Counseling concentration and/or preference is given to students from historically underrepresented populations. If no student applications are pursuing those two preferences, any student enrolled in master’s level Counseling Program in EHS is eligible. The recipient does not need to demonstrate financial need. 

Robert and Marilouise Knott Special Education Award

Established in 2010 by the estate of Robert Knott ’41, ’57, to commemorate Robert and his sister, Marilouise. Income from the endowment will support a renewable award for a student enrolled in the Master of Arts (M.A.) in the Special Education graduate program within the College of Education and Human Services with a minimum of five credit hours and a 3.5 GPA.

Krantz Family International Study Award

Established in 2018 by The Joseph and Karen Krantz Family Charitable Foundation. Income from this endowment will be used to support a scholarship within the College of Communication and Fine Arts’ School of Music. The recipient will be a declared music major and must participate in a qualified study abroad experience. Students applying for the award should include a resume, letter of recommendation, and brief essay describing their interest in study abroad as it pertains to their educational experience and professional goals. Preference will be given to students enrolled as a major in Vocal Music and those that have not previously participated in a study abroad experience. If there are no study abroad applicants within the School of Music, the award may be used for other international travel that contributes to a student’s academic and professional success, such as conferences, competitions, and other activities.

Dr. Barbara Leiting-O’Connell Family Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2007 by Dr. John F. O’Connell ’83 in memory of Dr. Barbara Leiting-O’Connell. Income from the endowment will support a renewable award for a junior or senior with a minimum GPA of 3.25. First preference will be given to students majoring in chemistry, then students majoring in physics or math. Preference will also be given to students desiring to attend graduate school.

Jeff Lichon Spinal Cord Injury Foundation Graduate Student Scholarship

Established in 2017 by The Jeff Lichon Spinal Cord Injury Foundation. Income from the endowment will support a renewable graduate scholarship to support students who have the potential of making a significant contribution to advancing our understanding of the degenerative processes involved in spinal cord injury or degenerative disc disease, and/or the potential treatment strategies that are most relevant to spinal cord or spinal disc injury and/or disease. The recipient will be a graduate student who is enrolled in the College of Humanities and Social and Behavioral Science’s Program in Neuroscience.

Bruce E. Livingston Endowed Medical Scholarship

Established in 2023 by the estate of Bruce E. Livingston.  Bruce graduated from Central Michigan University in 1961.  He always had an appreciation of how he was treated as a student at CMU and has fond memories of being on campus.  Later in life, Bruce had some health issues in which he found himself being taken care of by Central Michigan University medical students in a hospital setting.  Bruce shared that although he had always feared hospitals, those students were able to decrease his anxiety and fears while he was there.  These impactful visits by CMU medical students were the impetus for Bruce creating an endowment to support them while creating a lasting legacy at CMU.  Bruce passed away in 2021.  This renewable scholarship will support students enrolled in the College of Medicine, in M1 through M4 years, who demonstrate financial need.  Individual scholarships may be awarded in amounts up to 50% of student cost of attendance.  Additionally, up to 15% of annual distributions may be used to support student scholarships for research.  Preference will be given to students who reside in Michigan.

Margaret E. Sanford Marquardt Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2007 by Richard G. Marquardt ’59 in memory of Margaret E. Sanford Marquardt ’55, ‘60. Income from the endowment will support a renewable scholarship in the Department of Communication Disorders for either a graduate student with a 3.5 GPA or higher or an undergraduate with a 3.25 GPA or higher. First preference will be given to a physically challenged graduate student and then a physically challenged undergraduate student registered with the Office of Student Disability Services. For further information see the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid.

Richard Allen Martens Endowed Scholarship for Military Personnel and Families

Established in 2018 by the estate of Dr. Richard Allen Martens ‘59.  Richard enlisted in the US Army in 1952. He served in the Korean Conflict as an operations and intelligence specialist with the 61st Field Artillery Battalion of the First Cavalry.  He attained the rank of staff sergeant and was honorably discharged in 1955.  Dick enrolled in CMU and earned a bachelors degree in biology.  After working at Miles Laboratories for a few years, he furthered his education at the Indiana University Dental School.  He practiced dentistry in Washington, IN from 1967 to 1980.  He spent the rest of his career as a civilian dentist at Fort Bragg in Fayetteville, NC.  Richard passed away in 2016.  This renewable scholarship will support both undergraduate and graduate recipients who are active military personnel, a veteran, or a qualifying dependent that demonstrates financial need.

Robert E. McCabe Scholarship

Established in 1998 by Robert McCabe '46 for undergraduate or graduate students with a minimum 3.2 GPA and financial need. First preference will be given to students pursuing a degree in journalism. If no qualified candidate is identified, then the scholarship shall be awarded to a student pursuing a degree in liberal arts.

Mark McDonald O.I.T. Endowed Award

Established in 2019 through the collective giving of OIT staff, this award is available to undergraduate and graduate students university-wide, regardless of major or field of study. The recipient(s) will maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. The recipient must have been employed by the Office of Information Technology for at least one full semester and be employed by the Office of Information Technology at the time upon which the award is made. The scholarship is not renewable following its initial award.

Edward E. McKenna Academic Excellence Award

Established in 1998 in memory of this dedicated teacher, scholar, and unionist by the Department of Sociology, Anthropology, and Social Work. Endowment earning will provide cash awards for winning authors of an annual undergraduate and graduate paper competition.

The Mello Primary Care Endowed Medical Scholarship

Established in 2019 by Joseph and Virginia Mello ‘84. Available to students exclusively within the College of Medicine, this renewable award will support a medical student scholarship (M1 -M4). Recipient must be from Michigan and demonstrate a strong interest in primary care. The award may be renewable up to three years following its initial award.

Anne Miller-Quimper Memorial Award

The Anne Miller-Quimper Memorial Award was established in 1991 though gifts from family and friends in memory of Anne Miller-Quimper (1940-1980). A graduate student in the School of Psychology program, Anne was killed by a car while she was jogging. Endowment earnings will provide annual stipends to graduate students in the School Psychology Program to support thesis or dissertation research.

Clara Lee R. Moodie Scholarship

Established in 2015 by the estate of Clara Lee R. Moodie. Clara was an English professor at CMU from 1971 – 1999. Income from the endowment will support a renewable award for a graduate student majoring in English, showing academic promise and a commitment to teaching English at either the high school or college level. Preference will be given to a student wishing to teach American literature. The award is to be used for tuition, fees, room and board, or books.

Doris Andersen Moore Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2016 from the estate of Doris Andersen Moore ‘38. Income from the endowment will support a renewable scholarship for a full-time or part-time graduate student admitted to the Counseling program in the College of Education and Human Services. Recipient will have maintained a cumulative minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference will be given to a student from the State of Michigan.

Morris Family CMU Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2009 by Laurie and Michael J. Morris ’80, ‘93. Income from the endowment will equally support three awards for students enrolled in the College of Business Administration, College of Communication and Fine Arts and for students enrolled in a masters program with Global Campus Programs. On Campus students must have successfully maintained a 3.2 GPA. Documentation will need to be provided to support a GPA of 3.2 was achieved in high school if an incoming freshman is an applicant. The recipient of the Global Campus scholarship must be pursuing a master’s degree and must have received an undergraduate degree from CMU. It is the intent of the Morris Family that this scholarship not apply solely to the financially disadvantaged as defined by Federal and/or State of Michigan guidelines.

Robert and Lura Myers Scholarship

Established in 1997 by Robert and Lura Myers of Lapeer, Michigan, for undergraduate or graduate students with demonstrated financial need as determined by the Office of Scholarship and Financial Aid. Preference will be given to students from Lapeer County.

Dr. Nina Nash-Robertson Memorial Scholarship

Established in 2018 by John and Jennifer Robertson, colleagues and friends in memory of Nina Nash-Robertson. Professor Nina Nash-Robertson served as the Director of Choral Activities at Central Michigan University from 1982 to 2017. As a talented and accomplished musician and an inspiring teacher and mentor, she touched the lives of thousands both at CMU and around the world. Scholarship will be awarded to a student who best exemplifies her enthusiasm and dedication to excellence in choral conducting and performance, and who demonstrates a record of distinguished musical and academic achievement as well as significant promise as a choral educator. Applicant will be a graduate student pursuing a choral conducting career in the Master of Music: Conducting or Music Education concentrations, or an undergraduate student with a signed Bachelor of Music Education: Choral Option major and have attained music candidacy. Undergraduate applicants must have earned an overall GPA of at least 3.0 and have at least one semester of experience as a registered student in the CMU Concert Choir and/or Chamber Singers. Applicants must provide an up-to-date CV; two letters of recommendation attesting to achievement and promise as a musician and an educator; and an essay [no more than 300 words] in which they describe their achievements as a choral performer and choral-education student and their aspirations as a choral educator.

Kathleen M. and Lawrence J. Oswald Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2005 by Kathleen M. (‘79) and Lawrence J. Oswald for Global Campus students residing in Southeast Michigan. Applicants must have successfully completed a minimum of twelve (12) credit hours (undergraduate) or nine (9) credit hours (graduate) and have earned a minimum GPA of 3.0. Preference will be given to single parents.

Parr Student Professional Development Fund

Established in 2021 by Donna Parr ‘91 to carry out the legacy of her late husband, Dr. Richard Parr, emeritus faculty in the School of Health Sciences in The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions.  The Donor wishes to provide support for motivated, hard-working students who will benefit from participating in professional development.  The non-renewable award should provide financial support for costs associated with professional development, such as, attendance at professional conferences when presenting, professional organization annual membership dues, professional journal subscription costs, or writing certification test costs. Recipient will be a sophomore or higher undergraduate student or a graduate student in the current School of Health Sciences in The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions majoring in Exercise Science or enrolled in the M.S. in Exercise Physiology Program.  Preference will be given to students who have financial need.  Financial need should outweigh GPA.

Parr Internship Fund

Established in 2021 by Donna Parr ‘91 to carry out the legacy of her late husband, Dr. Richard Parr, emeritus faculty in the School of Health Sciences in The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions.  The Donor wishes to provide support for motivated, hard-working students who may not have had the opportunity to be highly involved in extra-curricular activities or who are in need of financial support to enable them to complete the best possible internship experience for their professional goals.  Recipient will be an undergraduate or graduate student in the current School of Health Sciences in The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions and be majoring in Exercise Science (Clinical Exercise Science or Health Fitness) or will be enrolled in the M.S. in Exercise Physiology Program. Recipients will have a cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5 and must have their internship application approved by the faculty Internship Coordinator in order to be eligible for this award. A recipient of this fund is not eligible to receive support for more than one academic year and must demonstrate financial need. Financial need should outweigh GPA.

The Evelyn Hill Pender Memorial Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2002 by Paul Pender in honor of his wife Evelyn Hill Pender (Class of 1948), former teacher. Proceeds from the endowment will be used to establish a scholarship for a graduate student enrolled in the Department of Communication Disorders within the Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions, and who has a record of academic and clinical excellence. Preference will be given to a student with financial need.

Dr. Leonard E. Plachta Accounting Scholarship

Established in 2012 by Louise A. (Mrs. Leonard E.) Plachta ’92 in memory of Dr. Leonard E. Plachta, professor of accounting, Dean of the College of Business Administration, and President of Central Michigan University from 1992 – 2000. Income from the endowment will support a scholarship for a student enrolled in the College of Business Administration. The recipient shall be a junior, a senior, or a master’s degree candidate majoring in the study of accounting. The recipient must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 overall and a GPA of 3.2 in accounting courses. Preference will be given to candidates who aspire to receive a Ph.D. in accounting and plan to teach at the collegiate level.

Edward H. Potthoff, Jr. Scholarship

Established in 1983 by family and friends for a public administration graduate student demonstrating a career interest in local government.

Albert Thomas and Brenda Jones Quick Department of History Graduate Study Abroad Scholarship

Established in 2015 by Albert T. Quick ’64 and Brenda Jones Quick for graduate students who wish to study abroad so that they may grow in the knowledge of history, cultures, values, political systems, religions, and peoples who live outside their communities and the United States. Income from the endowment will support a Department of History graduate student(s) who wishes to study abroad. The recipient will have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 and have completed at least one semester of full-time graduate studies, have a desire to study abroad to enhance his/her research and to experience the culture in which he/she will live.

Nicholas P. Redfield Memorial Endowment

Established in 1998 by colleagues in memory of Dr. Nicholas P. Redfield. Income from the endowment shall be used for a doctoral audiology student with a "client centered" approach to clinical audiology, academic performance, clinical performance, volunteer work, and efforts to better the audiology program at CMU.

College of Medicine Rotary Scholarship

Established in 2017 by Rotary Clubs of Mid-Michigan and Friends. Income from the endowment will support a non-renewable award for a fourth year student enrolled in the College of Medicine in good academic standing. Recipient will demonstrate financial need and will have successfully matched in a residency located within the following counties: Alcona, Alpena, Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Huron, Iosco, Isabella, Midland, Montmorency, Ogema, Presque Isle, Saginaw, Shiawassee, or Tuscola. Applicant will submit a brief essay describing their interest in their matched residency and future practice plans.

Thanks For Staying Rotary Scholarship

Established in 2017 by Rotary Clubs of Mid-Michigan and Friends. Income from the endowment will support a renewable award for a full-time third or fourth year student enrolled in the College of Medicine in good academic standing. Recipient will be a student from mid-Michigan (Saginaw, Bay, Midland, Isabella, Clare, Gladwin, Tuscola and Huron Counties). Applicant will submit a brief essay demonstrating his/her interest in mid-Michigan residency and future practice opportunities.

Saltarelli Family Physician Assistant Fund

This scholarship was established in 2023 by William Saltarelli, Ph.D. and Diane Saltarelli ’92 to honor their daughter Katelyn Saltarelli Hedrich ’07, ’09, PA-C, a local physical assistant working with pediatric patients in the Mt. Pleasant community. William Saltarelli, Ph.D., was a professor in the College of Health Professions at CMU for over 32 years and educational instructor for a total of 46 years. He dedicated his scholarly pursuits to both cardiovascular disease prevention in children as well as implementing novel teaching methods in Human Anatomy. Since the inception of CMU’s PA program many students have benefited from his advising, mentorship, and knowledge of clinical human anatomy. This non-renewable scholarship will support CMU Physician Assistant students preparing for clinical rotations for expenses incurred while participating in assigned clinical clerkship rotations.  Preference will be given to recipients who demonstrate financial need.

The Louis & Yvette Saravolatz Research Scholar Fund

Established in 2020 by Dr. & Mrs. Louis and Yvette Saravolatz. Available to students exclusively within the College of Medicine for the purpose of excellence in medical research. Award will support medical students (M1 -M4). Applications will be reviewed by a committee of medical faculty and is non-renewable. An application and brief proposal must be submitted. Contact the CMU College of Medicine financial aid office or research department for further details.

Kenneth W. and Margaret Cuff Saunders Scholarship

Established in 1989 by family and friends for a junior, senior or graduate student with a 3.5 or higher GPA. Preference is given to English, journalism or physics majors; the scholarship is renewable provided the 3.5 or higher GPA is maintained.

Seybert Family Medical Study Abroad Experience

Established in 2018 by Phillip ’75 and Kim Seybert. Income from the endowment will support one College of Medicine faculty member and up to five College of Medicine students. Preference will be given to 1) students who have expressed interest in family practice; and 2) originate from Gratiot, Isabella, Midland and Clare counties. Faculty and student(s) will travel to Latin America with a goal to deliver free health care service to impoverished people regardless of race, religion or ethnicity. If a suitable destination in Latin America is not available in any given year, the College of Medicine may choose to send a faculty member and student(s) to any international destination where impoverished people are in need of care. Income from the endowment will support expenses such as program costs, transportation, food, lodging and insurance for participating students and faculty.

Michael P. Shields Graduate Research Endowed Award

Established in 2015 by Dr. Gail M. Shields to honor her late husband Dr. Michael P. Shields. Both Michael and Gail served as faculty at CMU in the Economics Department. Michael was a professor from 1993 until his retirement in 2012. While at CMU, Michael served as Chair and Graduate Director for the department. Upon his retirement, CMU awarded Michael the rank of Professor Emeritus. Michael was recognized in his profession for his many publications, both professional articles and textbooks. Michael passed away in 2014. Award will support graduate students pursuing a Master of Arts in Economics who are working with a faculty member on research. Qualified recipients (and the faculty member if applicable) must provide a written document, two page maximum, that includes the focus of the research. First preference will be given to international students. Second preference will be given to students who will co-author with the faculty member.

Sole-Parent Household Chip Scholarship

Established in 2007 by CMU Women’s Connection donors. This association provides a platform for alumnae and friends to be actively engaged in the advancement of the university and to promote enhanced learning opportunities for CMU students. Income from this renewable award will support a part-time or full-time student at CMU who is a single parent* or to a student from a single parent* household. Recipient must demonstrate financial need with a minimum GPA of 2.75. (*“single parent” defined as a sole parental figure who shoulders the day-to-day responsibilities of raising a child without any assistance, financial or otherwise, from the other parent or partner, regardless of current or previous marital status to one another).

James and Catherine Steinmetz Graduate Scholarship

Established in 2011 by Dr. Joseph ’77, ’79 and Sandra Steinmetz to honor Joseph’s parents, James and Catherine Steinmetz. Income from this endowment will support a renewable award for a graduate student majoring in Experimental Psychology, studying neuroscience, within the College of Humanities & Social and Behavioral Sciences.

Shirley Larzelere Viele Scholarship

Established in 2013 by George B. Viele ’60, ‘65 in memory of Shirley Larzelere Viele ’55. Income from the endowment will support a renewable award for a student majoring in chemistry whose objective is to become a high school chemistry teacher and is involved in campus activities such as the American Chemistry Society Affiliate, intramural sports, etc. The scholarship will be awarded on the basis of merit and financial need, although it may be awarded on the basis of merit alone.

Stanley and Madalin Vihtelic Study Abroad Scholarship

The recipient(s) of this scholarship will be student(s) with good academic standing (a 3.0 GPA for undergraduate students and a 3.2 GPA for graduate students) who choose to study abroad for a length of up to a year. The student(s) must be approved to study abroad through CMU, be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident enrolled  full time at CMU at the time of the award and during the term of study abroad. The Office of the President with the assistance of the Office of International Education and the Office of Scholarships and Financial  Aid will determine the number, amount. and recipient(s) of the Scholarship. The Office of the President may set up processes for a Scholarship Award Committee to recommend recipients of the Scholarship, as appropriate for the gift.  The expenditure of the income from this gift will be approved by the Office of the President at least annually.

Sydney and Mary Walston Award

Established in 2000 by Dr. Sydney Walston and his wife Mary Walston, both professors in the Department of Health Promotion and Rehabilitation. Recipient will be a junior or senior majoring in school health education or public health education, or graduate level in the Master of Public Health program. Student must have a cumulative minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher. The endowment is intended to support learning through attendance and participation at state, national or international professional conferences.

Daniel & Barbara Wardrop Endowed Fund for Statistics, Actuarial & Data Sciences

Established in 2018 by Daniel '78 and Barbara Wardrop '78.  The Wardrops established this scholarship to encourage Seniors to pursue a Masters degree or Doctoral degree after graduation from Central Michigan University.  This non-renewable scholarship will support recipients with a cumulative minimum GPA of 3.25 and are one of the following:

1) A Senior with a major in Statistics, Actuarial Science, Data Science or Math who intends to pursue a Graduate Degree.

2) A student completing their first year, who will be entering their second year, of the Accelerated Masters in Applied Statistics & Analytics or the Accelerated Masters in Mathematics and intending to pursue a PhD degree.

Preference will be given to recipients who articulate the desire to attend Virginia Tech University for their graduate program of choice and to recipients who submit a personal narrative describing their interest and intent in earning a masters or doctoral degree in the fields of applied statistics, actuarial science or math.

John E. Warriner Scholarships

John E. Warriner Scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis to outstanding juniors, seniors, and graduate students enrolled in a humanities or social science program within the College of Humanities and Social & Behavioral Sciences.

Eligibility. Graduate student applicants for the Warriner Scholarships must be accepted into a graduate program in one of the following departments: Economics, English Language and Literature, History, Political Science and Public Administration, Communication and Dramatic Arts, or Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work. They must have a GPA of at least 3.25 and demonstrate financial need.

Application Procedure. Applicants must submit the following: (1) a completed application form; (2) transcripts of all undergraduate and graduate study; (3) two letters of recommendation from faculty who have worked with the applicant; and (4) a letter describing the applicant's educational and professional goals and explaining how the scholarship would benefit the recipient. All applicants must have a FAFSA on file at CMU.

Application Deadline. Applications should be submitted by March 15. Scholarship recipients will be notified by May 1.

Application Forms and Information. For application materials and information, contact the College of Humanities and Social & Behavioral Sciences, CMU, 106 Anspach, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859; telephone 989-774-3341.

Jett W. Whitehead Poetry Award

Established by Jett W. Whitehead ’77 to create a contest to award to a student (either undergraduate or graduate) who has taken a creative writing class in the current academic year that they are applying for this award. To be eligible, in addition to taking a creative writing class, a student must submit up to three typed poems of any length. The creative writing faculty within the Department of English Language and Literature have the authority to create the selection process, including but not limited to, appointing a selection committee, appointing a guest judge, etc.   

Marian Whitney Summer Graduate Scholarship

Awarded to an outstanding Biology graduate student who is completing a thesis in zoology. The award may be used to support the graduate student in the summer.

Robert L. Wintermyer Endowed Scholarship Fund for Physician Assistant Students

Established in 2011 by Robert Wintermyer ’05, CMU faculty, to honor Physician Assistant students. Income from this endowment will support an award for a second year Physician Assistant student in The Herbert H. and Grace A. Dow College of Health Professions who has a minimum GPA of 3.4. Preference will be given to a student with financial need.

Daniel E. & Mildred G. Wujek Scholarship

This scholarship recognizes an outstanding second-year botany or aquatic biology graduate student who has been identified as worthy of distinction. The award may be used for tuition, books, room and board at a biological station, and for research supplies and logistics. This endowment was established by CMU alumni Daniel E. and Mildred G. Wujek. Daniel Wujek is an Emeritus faculty member in the CMU Department of Biology.