The Class of 1969 Endowed Scholarship

Criteria: (Amount Equal to One Full Annual In-State Tuition) The Class of 1969 Endowed Scholarship will be awarded to a junior or senior majoring or minoring in Education with demonstrated financial need. The individual should have the goal of teaching and include an essay on a teachable moment that led them to the desire to enter the teaching field. Preference will be given to an individual who is involved with community service, including student activities.

Shortly before the 35th reunion, former classmates from the Class of 1969 rekindled their friendships. They were amazed at how quickly everyone picked up right where they had left off thirty-five years earlier. This group, inspired by the physical growth of the college and realizing that they owed Worcester State College (now University) for their own personal accomplishments, decided it was time to give back by creating an endowed scholarship.

All 1969 classmates were informed of this goal and challenged to make donations and participate in the initial fundraising events. These first efforts resulted in slightly over $6,000 toward this endowed scholarship. This was just the beginning…the committee persevered and also decided to focus on the fun in fundraising. Two shows were organized for Worcester State alumni, friends, faculty and staff at the Hanover Theatre for the Performing Arts. More than 250 people attended a special performance of the Rat Pack Is Back! in March 2009 and 100 alumni and friends enjoyed the Cirque Dreams Illuminations show in February 2010. Both events featured an exclusive pre-show cocktail reception.

At the time of the class reunion dinner in 2009, the goal was nearly met. Motivated by the importance and the desire to help future educators, it was decided to continue the quest. Finally, in June of 2010, the Class of 1969 became the youngest class to endow a scholarship!

Congratulations and sincere gratitude to all the members and friends of the Class of 1969 who helped realize this goal. To the future educators who are recipients: Perseverance is the key that created this scholarship and will also be the key to help enable you to attain your personal dream of attending college. Never give up!