Graduating high school seniors and students currently enrolled in higher education and trade schools are encouraged to apply for Isle of Wight Ruritan Chapter’s educational scholarships. 

The Ruritan chapter is accepting applications from graduating seniors from Windsor High School, Smithfield High School and Isle of Wight Academy, along with comparable homeschooling programs, according to a chaper news release. Several $1,000 scholarships are to be awarded in support of students planning to further their education.

Selection criteria primarily includes: academic achievement; community service, goodwill and fellowship; and leadership. Additional criteria to be considered include financial need, educational aspirations, unusual talents and intangibles.  This could include any unique challenges the applicant overcame to achieve their level of scholarship, leadership or citizenship. 

Each of the high schools’ guidance offices have copies of the application. Students can also download a copy of the application via the Isle of Wight Ruritan Club Facebook page.  Completed applications must be submitted by April 1. 

The Ruritan Club is a community-service organization, and the Isle of Wight Chapter serves Isle of Wight and the surrounding areas. The Cchapter has served the local community for over 75 years. It meets monthly for dinner and a program.  The programs showcase organizations that the local Club supports, as well as topics of interest in the community.  Fundraiser events at the Isle of Wight County Fair booth and its twice/annual Brunswick Stew Sales help fund the scholarships.