Henry and Cornelia Ritter Memorial Scholarship

$10,000
2 winners, $5,000 each
Open
Application Deadline
Aug 15, 2025
Winners Announced
Sep 15, 2025
Education Level
High School
Eligibility Requirements
Education Level:
High school senior
Financial Status:
Low-income
Field of Study:
Skilled trades
GPA:
2.0 GPA or higher
Background:
Volunteering experience
State:
Missouri

Henry and Cornelia Ritter lived out the values of hard work, humility, and servant leadership raising their family while also helping others in their community.

Henry was a carpenter and his many descendants have pursued careers in various trades. The trades are a powerful pathway to economic independence, generational progress, and local impact. Not only do the trades allow individuals to earn a steady income and find career fulfillment, but they also allow them to serve, lead, and uplift their communities.

This scholarship seeks to help make education available to low-income students who wish to pursue a trades career and also serve their communities.

Any graduating high school senior in Missouri from a low-income family who wants to enroll in an accredited vocational or trade school program may apply for this scholarship opportunity if they have at least a 2.0 GPA and community service or volunteering experience. Applicants should also demonstrate leadership potential, empathy, involvement in family caregiving, part-time work, or other responsibilities that reflect character.

To apply, submit an essay or video telling us about your career goals, your inspiration for pursuing this field, and how you hope to give back. While an essay is acceptable, video responses are strongly encouraged. Please also submit a letter of recommendation from someone involved in the volunteering/community service activity you have participated in, such as a nonprofit employee, community service organizer, or community member.

Selection Criteria:
Ambition, Drive, Impact
Published May 13, 2025
Essay Topic

What are your career goals within the trades, what inspired you to pursue this path, and how do you hope to give back to others in the future?

0–600 words

FAQ

When is the scholarship application deadline?

The application deadline is Aug 15, 2025. Winners will be announced on Sep 15, 2025.