Michigan Scholarships

The Gene's Auto Parts Scholarship for Grand Traverse Academy Fund was established in 2003 in memory of Gene Denman, founder of Gene's Auto Parts. Available to graduating seniors from Grand Traverse Academy and/or children of Gene’s Auto Parts employees that are planning to pursue a post-secondary education (including trade and vocational schools) and that demonstrate financial need.

This fund provides scholarships for area residents pursuing or continuing education in the building trades, with emphasis to HBA members, their employees and their children.The Home Builders Association of the Grand Traverse Area, Inc., chartered in 1970, is a professional trade association encompassing the Michigan counties of Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska and Leelanau, whose members are licensed, where applicable, for the purpose of constructing quality housing, providing associated services and utilizing progressive technologies. The Home Builders Association of the Grand Traverse Area, Inc., is an affiliate of the Michigan Association of Home Builders and National Association of Home Builders. Available to residents from Antrim, Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska or Leelanau Counties who are pursuing continuing education related to the home building industry.

Available to Michigan-based college students that are employees, or the spouse or child of employees, of an MCMCFC member facility and that are in a health and human services field of study.

Available to students from the five county area that are enrolled, or planning to enroll in an associate's degree, certificate, or apprenticeship program.

The purpose of the Fund shall be to preserve the legacy and story of the USS Indianapolis by recognizing, with an annual scholarship award, those who have direct relatives who were involved with the USS Indianapolis and the rescue of the survivors.Scholarship eligibility will include descendants (includes stepchildren) of survivors, honorary survivors, or lost at sea (LAS).Consideration is given to applicants that fulfill the following criteria: * Those students who attend or are a prospective full-time attendee of an accredited 2- or 4-year college or university * Have an overall GPA of 3.0 or better * An individual can only receive a scholarship award once; recipients may defer their award for up to one year, if necessary. * The scholarship application will include two essays, including an essay on one of the following themes of the USS Indianapolis CA-35 story: - miracle of the sighting - heroism - loyalty and brotherhood - service to country - forgiveness - righting a wrong - survival against all odds

In keeping with the visions and determinations that were held by the late Les Biederman, this scholarship is available to students who endeavor to pursue careers in nursing or business. One $1,000 scholarship awarded annually at each Central High School and West Senior High for a student pursuing a career in business and one $1,000 scholarship awarded annually at each Central High School and West Senior High for a student pursuing a career in nursing.

The Kenneth M. Koch Memorial Scholarship was established in 1988 and will be awarded to a worthy senior of the Traverse City Central High graduating class. Eligible seniors must have a 3.0 GPA or better. One $400 scholarship is awarded annually.

Thomas Menzel, in memory of his parents Irving and Emmaleen Menzel, who were both teachers in the Traverse City Public Schools District, established the scholarship in 1988. A 3.0 or better grade point average is required and the recipient must be pursuing a career in education and also demonstrate financial need. One $400 scholarship is awarded annually.

The Old Mission Peninsula Scholarship was established in 1995 to recognize an outstanding graduating senior who attended Old Mission Peninsula Elementary School. One $250 scholarship is awarded annually at each Central High School and West Senior High (if there is only one eligible recipient, they may receive the full $500 available.)

This scholarship is available for a graduating senior who is pursuing a degree in business/management related field. The recipient must exhibit good citizenship, a good attendance record, excellent oral/written communication skills and meet all academic standards with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Priority will be given to students involved in community and/or extracurricular activities. Financial need will also be taken into consideration. Two $1,000 scholarships awarded annually at each Central High School and West Senior High.

This scholarship was established in loving memory of John W. Rennie who lived his own vision each and every day by contributing his energy, love, and commitment to his family, friends, and community. He lived a long, full and happy life because he gave infinitely more than he received. John believed that each person develops their own vision and purpose in life through education and experience. The award goes to a student who has excelled in academics and has had active participation in school or community activities. One scholarship ($200-$250) awarded annually at each Central High School and West Senior High.

This scholarship will be awarded to a female graduate in memory of Laura Rennie, daughter of John and Harriet Rennie. The John Rennie family has established a scholarship in 1994 in memory of Laura, who would have been a member of the Class of 1992. She died December 18, 1986 when she was 12 years old. The selection will be based on scholastic achievement and active participation in school or community activities. One scholarship ($200-$250) awarded annually at each Central High School and West Senior High.