IMPACT Scholarship for Advanced Studies

Investing in the Future of the LGBTQ+ Community

“Adopt a Student” Scholarship program
for LGBTQ+ Graduate Students in Theology & Ministry

Purpose

To support LGBTQ+ students who are pursuing graduate studies for the advancement of our community in theology, spirituality, ministry and community service.

Our “adopt a student” approach provides funds for books & supplies each semester, along with gifts and support throughout the year.

Award

Scholarship provides funds for books & supplies each semester, along with gifts and support throughout the year. The award amounts to about $1000 per year.
Applications may be submitted at any time.
The number of Scholarships granted each year is determined by availability of funds.

Qualifications

Applicants must :

identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community
be pursuing graduate-level education in a degree-granting program at an accredited university or seminary in either the field of theology & ministry or in the arts & humanities
have and maintain at least a “B” (3.0) grade average
have a desire to contribute to the spiritual well-being of the LGBTQ+ community

Application

Submit a letter of application in which you include:

your name, address, and email address
how you self-identify (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, etc), and whether you are “out”. Also, please indicate your preferred pronouns.
demographics: age and date of birth, gender identity, nationality, ethnicity. (This is for informational purposes only and will not affect eligibility)
the name and address of the university or seminary, and the department or program in which you are enrolled
your academic year (1st, etc), when you plan to graduate, and your current or latest GPA
is your school affirming/accepting, or is special discretion needed?
your application essay (see below)

Please also include with your letter:

proof of enrollment: acceptance letter from the school, or a copy of your tuition bill, etc.
A short introductory essay (between 500-1000 words — the length of a blog post). Please describe your experience as an LGBTQ+ person of faith (things like, when you discovered or accepted yourself; how it has affected your relationships, family, religious experience; how it has shaped your view of yourself, God, and the world; any challenges you may have encountered, etc). Also describe why you chose your area of study, any topics of special interest, what issue(s) you are passionate about addressing in your field, and how you hope to make a positive difference in the LGBTQ+ community. Think of it along the lines of “Me as LGBTQ+, and What I want for my community.” This is your opportunity for us to get to know you.
If being “out” places you or your enrollment in jeopardy (for example, if you are attending a non-affirming seminary or graduate school), please indicate that discretion is needed.
Application letter and supporting documentation should be submitted to submissions@IMPACTmagazine.us. Write “Scholarship Application” in the subject line.

Selection of recipients is made by the IMPACT Scholarship Advisory Committee. All applicants agree to accept their decision as final.

Confidentiality

All information submitted by candidates will be treated with confidentiality. The names of Scholarship recipients and their universities will be posted on the IMPACT website (and elsewhere), unless requested by the student. Recipients may choose to remain anonymous if such publication might create an unsafe situation or jeopardize their enrollment status.