William “Bill” Polito Memorial Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide support for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with post-secondary education for graduating seniors from Gates-Chili High School.

Application Period

December 1 – February 28

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $1,500; paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Eligibility Criteria

For a graduating senior at Gates-Chili High School who:

• Has a cumulative GPA 2.5 or higher;
• Is accepted into a post-secondary education program such as an accredited undergraduate, vocational, or technical post-secondary institution;
• Demonstrates financial need; and
• Is hardworking and demonstrates genuine empathy and perseverance.

Application Process

To begin or continue your application, click here.

This scholarship is one of dozens connected to our Consolidated Scholarship Application. Applying for this scholarship means you will be considered for any other relevant opportunities within the Consolidated Application.

Applicants are encouraged to read the scholarship description with the included background information about William “Bill” Polito.

Committee/Selection Process

The selection process is coordinated through the Community Foundation. A committee comprised of Community Foundation, community, and family representatives reviews applications and selects recipient(s).

Award Announcement and Payment

The Community Foundation emails an award notification with instructions for claiming the award to the recipient in the Spring. Payment is mailed to the school for the recipient’s account in one lump sum in the Fall and split between the Fall and Spring semesters once required documentation is received.

To release the scholarship payment, upload the requested and required information including your class schedule and tuition bill verifying full-time enrollment in a college or university to the Community Foundation’s online Scholarship Portal between July 1 and August 15.

Scholarships not claimed by February 15 in the assigned year will be forfeited. Email scholarships@racf.org with any questions or concerns.

Renewability

This scholarship is a one-time award and is not renewable.