Caelen Peterson Memorial Scholarship

Funded by
Just Published
$5,000
1 winner$5,000
Open
Application Deadline
Apr 26, 2026
Winners Announced
May 26, 2026
Education Level
High School
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
High school senior
Field of Study:
Mental health
School District:
Adel-DeSoto-Minburn (ADM)
State:
Iowa

Caelen Peterson was a beloved young man, son, and best friend who took his own life due to bullying and harassment.

Many students like Caelen face bullying or go through other mental health challenges that can significantly impact or even end their lives, despite the support systems they have. Schools often don’t go far enough to fight bullying and protect their students. Combined with the stigmatization of mental illness and the discouragement of seeking treatment, people often don’t get the help they need. 

This scholarship seeks to honor the life of Caelen Peterson by supporting students who are committed to using their skills to help save lives.

Any high school senior in Iowa within the Adel-DeSoto-Minburn (ADM) school district who is pursuing a career in mental health (therapist, psychiatrist, counselor, etc.) may apply for this scholarship opportunity if they’re passionate about helping others. 

To apply, provide a response to the questions posed in the essay prompt. Please also provide two letters of recommendation from a non-relative acquaintance who has known you a minimum of two years. These can be counselors, volunteer leaders, church clergy, managers from work, etc. You must have your current cumulative GPA included in your profile to be considered.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Impact
Published October 21, 2025
Essay Topic

Please provide a response to the following questions:


  • What is your Intended school, field of study, and start date? What will you plan to do once you receive your degree? (What career path)


  • Please indicate whether you have a.) not yet applied to school, b.) have been accepted into the school of your choice or c.) have applied and are awaiting a response from the school.


  • What do you think is the biggest misconception about mental health today, and how would you address it?


  • Do you believe mental health education is important? If so, how should it be integrated into our schools?


  • What does being a mental health advocate mean to you and how do you live that out in your everyday life?


  • Did you know Caelen Peterson? If so, do you have any stories/memories to share with us? (this question will not in any way affect your chance at the scholarship, it is just a way for us to be able to show just how much of an impact Caelen had).


  • Are you involved in any volunteer work and/or extra curricular activities? If so, please tell us about them.


  • (Optional): Is there anything else you'd like the foundation to know about you? If so, please share here.
500–2000 words

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Apr 26, 2026. Winners will be announced on May 26, 2026.