Scholarships

Investing in the Future of Solon: Our Scholarship Programs

The Solon Area Community Foundation (SACF) is deeply committed to fostering the academic and professional dreams of our local youth. By providing consistent financial support to graduating Solon High School seniors, we ensure that the spirit of community service and excellence continues long after graduation. Our scholarship programs are designed to recognize diverse career paths, from the essential skilled trades to life-saving healthcare professions.

The Doris Looney Memorial Scholarship

Established to honor a legacy of care and service, the Doris Looney Memorial Scholarship is a prestigious $4,000 award. This multi-year commitment supports students who have a clear intention to enter the healthcare field. Unlike traditional one-time grants, this scholarship grows with the student, providing increasing levels of support throughout their four-year journey:

• Year 1: $400
• Year 2: $800
• Year 3: $1,200
• Year 4: $1,600

To remain eligible, recipients must maintain a minimum 2.25 GPA and provide their class schedules by October 1st of each academic year. This structure encourages long-term academic persistence and success.

Annual SACF General Scholarships

In addition to our memorial awards, the Foundation annually grants four $1,000 scholarships. These awards are distributed to ensure that all forms of post-secondary advancement are celebrated:

• Vocational Excellence: One award for students entering a trade school or a professional apprenticeship program.
• Associate Degrees: One award for students enrolling in a 2-year college program.
• University Path: Two awards for students pursuing 4-year college degrees.

Qualifying factors include active community service, school involvement, and a reflective essay on how the SACF has influenced the student’s life in Solon.

Celebrating Our Recent Recipients

We are incredibly proud of the students who have demonstrated the values of the Solon Area Community Foundation. Their dedication to their studies and our community is an inspiration to us all.

2025 Scholarship Winners

• Doris Looney Memorial Recipient: Rose McAtee
• SACF Scholarship Recipients: Michael DeValk, Eddie Johnson, and Brianna Henning

2024 Scholarship Winners

• Doris Looney Memorial Recipient: Kate Richards
• SACF Scholarship Recipients: Jamison Grimm, Ashley Hummel, Mia Stahle, and Peyton Pentico

Congratulations to all Solon High School graduates! Your hard work today builds a stronger Solon for tomorrow.

Application and Deferment Policies

For those answering the call of duty, SACF offers a military deferment. Scholarship funds can be held for up to one year for students entering the military with work or college deferments. For more information on the application process, visit our Contact Page or review our About Us section.