Named scholarships & funds
When it comes to earning a college degree, the greatest obstacle can be funding.
For this reason, The University of Akron is pleased for the opportunity each year to assist talented, deserving students achieve their dreams, thanks to more than 1,300 named scholarships established through the kindness and generosity of thousands of 51²è¹Ý alumni and friends, corporations, and foundations.
Scholarships truly are the best way to ensure that today’s students persist to graduation. Scholarships allow students to enroll full time and remain focused on their studies; they also reduce drop-out rates, decrease the stress of student loans, and shorten the road to graduation.
If you are interested in making a significant contribution to student success, please consider a gift to scholarships. You may also establish a named scholarship at The University of Akron, which can be created to honor a living person, in memory of a loved one, or to contribute to the growth of an area of study.
To learn more, please contact the Department of Development at 330-972-7238.
How do I apply for a scholarship?
This is not the page to apply for scholarships.
Students who want to apply for scholarships should visit the scholarship page on the Financial Aid site. You can find the link for the online application here.
The Department of Development does not accept applications for or distribute scholarships. Scholarships are distributed through the University’s Office of Student Financial Aid.
Search for a Named Scholarship
Wardman, Catherine J. Endowed Scholarship for Education and Sport Sciences
Originally established in 1997 through the will of Catherine J. Wardman, this endowed scholarship was created to support students pursuing physical education within The University of Akron's College of Education (now the School of Education). In 2025, the scholarship was revised to align with updates to the University's curriculum and degree offerings. Reflecting these changes, the fund's name was updated from The Catherine J. Wardman Endowed College of Education Scholarship for Women's Physical Education to The Catherine J. Wardman Endowed Scholarship for Education and Sport Sciences.
A retired physical education teacher, Miss Wardman was deeply committed to her students and the teaching profession. She directed that her support be used for students who share her passion for education. It is the donor's hope that this scholarship will inspire recipients to uphold that same dedication to teaching, carrying forward Catherine J. Wardman's mission to make a lasting impact in the field of education.
In recognition of Ms. Wardman's lifelong dedication to teaching and physical activity, the scholarship has been revised to continue honoring her intent by supporting future educators and those pursuing careers related to physical education.
Students eligible for The Catherine J. Wardman Endowed Scholarship for Education and Sport Sciences must meet one of the following criteria:
- be enrolled in The University of Akron's School of Education and pursuing a teacher licensure program with the intent to teach in a classroom; or
- be enrolled in The University of Akron's School of Exercise and Nutrition Sciences, pursuing an undergraduate degree in exercise science or sport coaching and athletics leadership, or a graduate degree in sport science/coaching.
Recipients of The Catherine J. Wardman Endowed Scholarship for Education and Sport Sciences will be selected by the University Scholarship Committee in the Office of Student Financial Aid.
To make a tax-deductible gift to this scholarship, please visit 51²è¹Ý’s . Select “A different designation” from the drop-down menu and enter “Catherine Wardman Scholarship” in the text box. Thank you!
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