Scholarships

Catholic central endowed scholarships

Scholarship information

Each school year, Catholic Central is able to offer a variety of endowed scholarships to current and incoming Catholic Central students, thanks to the generosity of our donors.
9th - 12th grade studentstransfer studentsGraduating seniorsTuition Offsets

9th - 12th Grade scholarships

Endowed scholarship applications for the 2025-2026 school year will be due Wednesday, December 4, 2024. No late applications will be accepted. Recipients will be notified with their mailed tuition statements. Applicants must be of good character and have demonstrated consistent respect for authority. Nearly all Catholic Central endowed scholarships take financial need into consideration. Unless otherwise noted, each family must complete the Blackbaud Financial Aid form to be considered for an endowed scholarship. Scholarship funds will be awarded directly to the recipient’s tuition account; no money will be given to the student or their families.
‍
Please click on each scholarship name for more information about criteria and the application submission requirements. If you have any questions, please email scholarships@grcatholiccentral.org.
‍
If you have been asked to complete a letter of recommendation, the requesting student may submit hard copies of those letters with their application, or you may fill out an online form by clicking HERE.
‍
‍
APply NowHaga clic aquí para aplicarAPPLICATION INSTRUCTIONSINSTRUCCIONES PARA SOLICITAR BECAS DOTADAS

Scholarships Available to Incoming 9th - 12th Grade Students

AMDG Architects Scholarship Fund
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.0
  • Must be of Hispanic/Latino heritage.
  • Priority given to graduates of San Juan Diego Academy.
  • Applicants must have completed a minimum of 20 hours of community service in the past year.
  • Family must financially invest in tuition, based off the family’s financial capacity.
  • Parent(s) must attend two parent/teacher conferences.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Two letters of reference (from teachers, church leaders, etc.).

The Fred and Rosemary Braun Scholarship
Fred and Rosemary Braun lived lives of service and touched many with their kindness. This scholarship was created to support their belief in Catholic education and to financially support those who desire a Catholic education.
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central students.
  • Applicants need to be involved in at least one extracurricular activity or sport.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.
Submission Requirements
  • Documentation of service hours.
  • Essay (no longer than one (1) page) explaining why volunteering is so important to you.
  • One letter of reference from candidate’s priest, principal, teacher, or counselor speaking to applicant’s character is required.
Msgr. Charles D. Brophy Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Scholarship available to enrolled Catholic Central students, with preference going to students from St. Jude parish.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Proof of parish registration.
  • All applicants must write a minimum of a two (2) page essay describing why the scholarship will make a positive difference in their educational endeavors.

The Willie Butler Encounter Diversity Endowed Scholarship
For four decades, Willie Butler’s kind words and contagious smile welcomed and inspired the Catholic Central Community. Transcending religious, cultural, and economic differences, Willie stands as a reminder to us all that with faith in God and a positive outlook, we too can overcome adversity and be models of Christ’s love.
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA is preferred.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central students.
  • Scholarship recipients should identify as a Black person of color with a passion for education and spirituality. Consideration will be given to student applicants who are Black persons of color that also share other aspects of Willie’s experience, such as having evidence of a disability or being from a community close to Catholic Central.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the need persists and the required criteria are met. Applicants must reapply yearly.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Willie was a joyful man, always exhibiting kindness and love. Willie always saw the humanity in others and lived a life loving others the way God wants us to love. Willie was an amazing community member, and all who encountered Willie felt joy, acceptance, and a spirituality of generosity and love. To encounter Willie was to encounter diversity. Applicants must submit a one (1) page personal statement detailing a personal encounter with diversity.
  • A letter of recommendation from one of the following: mentor, teacher, or clergy leader (pastor, priest, deacon, minister).
The Timothy (CC '51) and Janet Conroy Family Legacy Scholarship
This scholarship fund established by Timothy (CC ’51) and Janet Conroy honors the legacy of great teachers at Catholic Central High School who influenced their lives and those of their eight children, all Catholic Central graduates. The Conroy family honors those excellent Catholic Central teachers who not only taught their subject matter well, but also formed the hearts, minds, and moral character of countless students over generations.
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central students.
  • Applicants must be involved in at least two extracurricular activities, such as clubs, band, campus ministry, athletics, chess, student newspaper, yearbook, or debate, preferably in a leadership role. If a student has extraordinary family commitments that prevent the student from engaging in the above, family commitments may be honored as fulfilling this commitment.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Personal letter detailing why Catholic Central is good for the student, and why the student is good for Catholic Central.
  • Essay sharing why the student’s extracurricular activities are so important to them, and what they have learned from these experiences.
  • One letter of reference from candidate’s priest, principal, teacher, or other administrator attesting to applicant’s exemplary attributes of respect for the dignity of others.
“Conquering Obstacles” The Denny Flak Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Candidate must have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 at the time of application.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central High School students.
  • Must participate in extra-curricular activities.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Eligible candidates must complete an essay describing how they have overcome or are overcoming obstacles or challenges while maintaining their character, integrity, and sense of humor. They should further explain how this scholarship will enable them to continue to meet and overcome challenges they face.
  • Up to two (2) letters conveying the candidate’s character are encouraged but not required; letters may not be from family members.

Deacon Dale Hollern Scholarship
This scholarship was made possible by the gifts raised in honor of Deacon Dale Hollern who passed away on November 3, 2011. Deacon Dale served the Grand Rapids Catholic Secondary Schools as a dedicated teacher and coach for over 30 years.
Criteria
  • Financial need is a consideration.
  • Available to student(s) enrolling/enrolled at Catholic Central High School.
  • Must complete 20 hours of community or church service.
  • Excellent standing in the classroom with outstanding attendance record.
  • Evidence of leadership, humility, and commitment to the Catholic faith.
  • The scholarship is renewable for students maintaining a minimum cumulative 2.5 GPA for four years. Eligible students must reapply yearly.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Applicants must write an essay not to exceed three (3) pages explaining their personal commitment to growth in the following areas: Educational Goals and Aspirations, Spiritual Commitment, and Service Commitment, giving examples of when they have overcome adversity or demonstrated persistence to achieve personal goals (that benefit the greater good). Applicants should include in the essay evidence of leadership, humility, and their commitment to the Catholic faith.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.

Rev. James C. Kowalski Scholarship Fund
Criteria
  • Financial need will be of primary consideration.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • All applicants must write a minimum of a two (2) page essay describing why the scholarship will make a positive difference in their educational endeavors.

Joe Lauria Memorial Scholarship Fund
Criteria
  • Based on financial need.
  • Must maintain a 3.0 GPA.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central students.
  • Applicants should have completed fifteen (15) hours of community service over the last year.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Write a two (2) page essay describing why Catholic education is important to you, addressing your financial need and highlighting your academic and community service experiences.
  • Verification of completed community service.

Lyle B. Morrison Memorial Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary concern.
  • The applicant must have maintained a minimum 2.5 GPA.
  • The applicant must demonstrate good student citizenship, good moral character, and respect for authority.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • The applicant must supply a letter of recommendation from a teacher, staff member, or priest.

The Brian “McDivot” O’Driscoll Scholarship Fund
Brian O’Driscoll (Catholic Central Class of 1977) loved life, his family, and his Catholic Central family. Engineering and golf were two of Brian “McDivot” O’Driscoll’s passions, and his family has named this scholarship to honor him and his legacy.
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Candidate must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B) at the time of application.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central High School students.
  • The student must have an interest in STEAM — Science, Technology, Engineering, Art or Math career field.
  • Special consideration will be given to any student who has demonstrated an interest in STEAM Education, community service, or extracurricular activities.
  • Applicants should have completed fifteen (15) hours of community service over the last year.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Applicant must write a two (2) page essay as to why they are interested in the STEAM academic track and/or provide a visual example of something they have created that shows an inclination to these studies (i.e. elementary robotics competition, participation in Odyssey of the Mind, building a go-cart, sharing pictures of art you’ve created, devising a gadget on your own, inventing something that resolved a dilemma, or software you may have created).
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Must have a total of two (2) letters of recommendation from a teacher, parish priest, coach, counselor (cannot be a family member).
Jim and Linda Payne Tuition Assistance Fund
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Candidate must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B) at the time of application.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central High School students.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Must complete a 500 word essay (two pages minimum) describing how they have overcome or are overcoming obstacles or challenges in their personal lives and why this scholarship will make a positive difference in the quality of their life.

Ed and June Prein Family CCHS Scholarship Fund
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Candidate must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 (B) at the time of application.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central High School students.
  • The student must have an interest in Science Technology, Engineering, and Math career field (STEM).
  • The student must respect authority, obey school rules, and work to capacity; applicant should share evidence of these character traits in the required essay.
  • The student must maintain a high attendance record.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Must write a two (2) page essay that will show how by studying and mastering the STEM academic challenges presented to you today will motivate you to become an innovative and creative thinker ready to meet 21st century challenges.
The Reilly Family Scholarship
The Reilly Family Scholarship was established to honor the memory of Frank (Catholic Central Class of 1948) and Victoria Reilly.
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • The student must have a cumulative 2.5 GPA average in order to apply.
  • Fifteen (15) hours of community service must be completed on an annual basis to receive this scholarship with documentation from the agency where hours were performed.
  • Must be of good character and have demonstrated a consistent respect for authority.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Must provide two letters (from teachers, parish priest, neighbors, etc.) explaining why those individuals feel the student should be considered for a scholarship.

The Joe and Marie Reynolds Family Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central students.
  • Priority is given to a single parent household.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.

The William Ronan ’61 Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central students.
  • Applicant needs to be involved in at least one extracurricular activity or sport.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Write an essay no longer than one (1) page as to why a Catholic Central education is important to you.
  • One letter of reference from candidate’s priest, principal, teacher, or counselor speaking to applicant’s character is required.
The Rob Rosenbach Memorial Scholarship
Established in memory of Rob Rosenbach, Catholic Central Class of 2004.
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Student must have a cumulative 2.5 GPA average in order to apply.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central students.
  • Rob was an advocate and protector of the underdog. The candidate must demonstrate strong character, respect, and compassion towards fellow students, teachers, and administrators. This must be supported by a letter (less than two pages) from each of the following: a fellow student, a teacher, and an administrator or parish priest.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Letter of recommendation from a fellow student (less than 2 pages).
  • Letter of recommendation from a teacher (less than 2 pages).
  • Letter of recommendation from an administrator or a parish priest (less than 2 pages).

The Rosloniec Family Scholarship Fund
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central High School students.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Applicants must submit a one page essay describing their work ethic and desire to receive a Catholic education.

Jeffrey P. Scholz Memorial Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Personal letter (no longer than one page) or a short video from the applicant expressing his or her interest in science.
  • Two (2) letters of recommendation (from teachers, church leaders, etc.) speaking to the applicant’s interest in science.
The Paul and Helen Walsh Scholarship
Established in memory of Paul G. Walsh (Catholic Central Class of 1934) and his wife Helen Walsh.
Criteria
  • Financial need is a consideration but not a requirement.
  • Students must have exhibited high academic achievement or interest in math and/or science, and should have a minimum 2.5 cumulative GPA.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 12th grade Catholic Central students.
  • Primary consideration is given to a student from St. Jude Parish, if any; otherwise to a student from All Saints Academy, if any; otherwise the scholarship can be awarded to any Catholic Central student.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the required criteria and submission requirements are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • One (1) page personal essay explaining how student hopes to use his/her education in math and/or science to advance his/her career plans, and how his/her career will be used to help the community.
  • Two (2) letters of recommendation; one (1) from a math or science teacher and one (1) from another source, such as someone from their church, a neighbor, coach, or grade school teacher.

Scholarships Available to Incoming 9th - 11th Grade Students

Polish-American History Endowed Scholarship / David C. Lukowitz Scholarship
Two scholarships (one Catholic Central Polish-American History Endowed Scholarship and one Catholic Central David C. Lukowitz Scholarship) will be awarded to students attending Catholic Central High School on an annual basis.
Criteria
  • Financial need is not a primary consideration; Blackbaud Financial aid is not required to apply for this scholarship.
  • Preference will be given to students of Polish-American descent (one parent or grandparent of Polish descent). If two candidates are not found in any year, then any student may be eligible to apply, provided they agree to work on the Polish-American project described below.
  • Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5.
  • Eligible candidates are incoming 9th – 11th grade Catholic Central students.
  • Applicants are required to produce a project that deals with the Polish-American experience in Grand Rapids, as detailed below under Submission Requirements.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Applicants are required to produce a project that deals with the Polish-American experience in Grand Rapids. The  project should be based on primary sources (newspapers, church newsletters, family photo albums, birth/marriage/death certificates, diaries, letters, or an oral history by interviewing a Polish relative about their experiences). The Polish-American historical societies or the Polish Halls may be a good source of information. The paper, project, or recording of an interview may involve a variety of topics; Polish-American women in Grand Rapids, a story of a Polish-American family over generations, a history of a Catholic parish or school, stories of social or cultural societies (St. Ladislaus, Sacred Heart, Polish Falcons, Polish athletes, Polish businesses, etc.). Students are encouraged to study the history of their own family, parish, or family business. Students who do an exceptional job should be encouraged to submit their papers or project for publication or to donate a copy to interested parties involved in the project.

Scholarships Available to Incoming 9th GRADE Students

The James and Ann Burns Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Must have maintained a 2.0 grade point average in grade school.
  • Incoming freshman student from Immaculate Heart of Mary or St. Thomas Parishes enrolling at Catholic Central High School.
  • The family/student must be a registered member of either St. Thomas Parish or Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish within the diocese of Grand Rapids.
  • The applicant must have completed a minimum of 15 hours of community service on an annual basis. Documentation from the agency where the community/church service was performed must be included with this application.
  • The applicant must have a good character and have shown consistent respect for authority.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application. Applicants should note parish membership on this form.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Two letters (from teachers, parish priest, neighbors, etc.) explaining why they feel the student should be considered for this scholarship must accompany the application.

The Ronnell and Linda Denhof Scholarship Fund
The Denhofs are indebted and grateful to Our Lady of Consolation Parish through decades of active parish membership. To honor their parish and their faith, it is their desire to provide tuition assistance to students from the parish who desire to attend a Catholic high school.
Criteria
  • Financial need is the primary consideration.
  • The applicant must be a registered member of Our Lady of Consolation Parish in Rockford, MI.
  • Applicants must have demonstrated acceptable character and behavior.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.

Sr. Robert Ann Dominican Sisters Educational Fund
This scholarship was established in honor of Sr. Robert Ann Erno, longtime Catholic Central teacher, and her fellow Dominican sisters.
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Must have maintained a 3.0 grade point average in grade school.
  • Incoming freshman student enrolling at Catholic Central High School.
  • The applicant must have completed a minimum of 20 hours of community service over the previous year.
  • Good standing at present school with outstanding attendance record.
  • The applicant must have a good character and has shown consistent respect for authority; applicants should address this in their required essay.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Essay not to exceed two (2) pages as to why they feel this scholarship will make a positive difference in the quality of their life.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.

Eugene "Sam" Kunst Memorial Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Must carry a 3.0 (B) average.
  • Applicant must participate in extracurricular activities.
  • Applicant must be an incoming freshman at Catholic Central High School.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Applicants must write a two (2) page essay describing their interest in Catholic education and why they should be considered for this scholarship.

William and Karen Lawrence Family Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Minimum of a 3.5 GPA from 8th grade academic year.
  • Open to incoming 9th grade students at Catholic Central High School from San Juan Diego Academy.
  • Scholarship is renewable for up to all four years if financial need persists and student continues to meet all criteria. Eligible candidates must reapply each year.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Must write a 250-word essay that answers: “Why is it important that you continue your Catholic education at Catholic Central High School?”
  • Must have one letter of recommendation (cannot be a family member).

The Michael Lebednick Scholarship Fund, in honor of Albert and Eleanor Lebednick
The Lebednick Scholarship was established as a means for Michael Lebednick (Catholic Central Class of 1965) to show his appreciation for the Catholic education he received, and to honor his parents, Albert and Eleanor (Catholic Central Class of 1941) Lebednick, who sacrificed to ensure he received a proper faith-based education.
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Cumulative GPA of 3.0 recommended and reviewed by the Guidance Office. Consideration will be given to students who fall short of a 3.0 GPA (due to family struggles, language barriers, or difficulty in a specific area of study) but demonstrate determination in improving their GPA.
  • Intended for incoming 9th grade student(s) to Catholic Central High School.
  • Candidate must have graduated from a Catholic grade school.
  • Applicants need to be involved in at least one extracurricular activity or sport.
  • Special consideration will be given to applicants who have documented service hours in a local V.A. facility or nursing home; recommended hours to be determined by guidance office counselors.
  • At the end of the school year, if financial assistance is needed for the next school year, the student needs to reapply for the scholarship, and complete a minimum one (1) page summary of their experience and efforts it took to achieve the criteria of the scholarship.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Verification of completed community service, if applicable.
  • A letter of reference from candidate’s grade school principal, teacher, or counselor speaking to applicant’s character is required.
  • For Lebednick Scholarship recipients applying for scholarship renewal, minimum one (1) page summary of their experience and efforts it took to achieve the criteria of the scholarship.

Douglas and Arlene Lillis Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Minimum GPA of 3.0.
  • Must be in good standing with no current student or athletic probations.
  • Involved in extracurricular activities.
  • Interest in fine arts, especially choir and/or band.
  • Scholarship is renewable for one year.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Applicants must write a two (2) page personal essay describing their desire to attend Catholic Central High School.

The John and Sandy Lowery Family Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • The student must have maintained a 2.5 GPA (B average) in the eighth grade.
  • The scholarship will be awarded to one (1) incoming freshman student per year.
  • All students must have completed fifteen (15) hours of community or church service over the previous year. Documentation from the agency that you performed your community service with must be attached to the application.
  • All applicants must be of good character and have demonstrated a consistent respect for authority.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Two letters (from teachers, parish priest, neighbors, etc.) explaining why they feel the student should be considered for a scholarship must accompany the application.

The Nicholas Mihos Memorial Scholarship Fund
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • The student must have maintained a 2.8 GPA in the eighth grade.
  • This scholarship is to provide need-based tuition assistance to one (1) incoming freshman student attending Catholic Central High School.
  • All applicants must have completed fifteen (15) hours of community or church service during their eighth-grade year. Documentation from the agency that you performed your community service with must be attached the application.
  • All applicants must be of good character and have demonstrated a consistent respect for authority.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the financial need persists and the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Two letters (from teachers, parish priest, neighbors, etc.) explaining why they feel the student should be considered for a scholarship must accompany the application.

Reynolds-Elderkin Family Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is a primary consideration.
  • Applicant must have maintained a 2.0 GPA /C average in 8th grade.
  • Applicant must have completed a minimum of 20 hours of community service over the previous year.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Must have two letters of reference (from teachers, church leaders, etc.).

Alan R. Ryan Scholarship for Catholic High School Education
This scholarship is managed and awarded by the Grand Rapids Community Foundation and as a result, has its own requirements and due date.
Criteria
  • Financial need is a primary consideration.
  • Applicant must have a minimum academic average of B or above.
  • Applicant must be a Kent County resident.
  • Applicant must express an interest in attending Aquinas College for post-secondary education.

Submission Requirements
  • Link to application here.
The Ziemke Family Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Students must have maintained at 2.5 GPA in 8th grade.
  • Students must have completed fifteen (15) hours of church or community service over the previous year and must provide documentation from the agency where hours were performed.
  • Applicants must be of good character and have demonstrated a consistent respect for authority.
  • Scholarship is renewable for up to four years if the student’s financial need persists; students must reapply each year.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Must provide two letters (from teachers, parish priest, neighbors, etc.) explaining why they feel the students should be considered for this scholarship.

Scholarships Available to Incoming 12th GRADE Students

Jon Davidson Memorial Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • The scholarship is available to a Catholic Central High School student for their senior year only.
  • Applicants must provide proof of community service or extracurricular activity at Catholic Central.
  • Applicant must be in good standing with no current student or athletic probations.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Applicants must complete a personal essay.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Applicants must provide two letters of recommendation: one from a priest, teacher, or Catholic Central faculty member, and the one from a classmate or peer.

The Leigh Eriks and Armen Oumedian STEM (Science-Technology-Engineering-Math) Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is not a primary consideration; Blackbaud Financial aid is not required to apply for this scholarship.
  • The applicant must have a cumulative 3.0 or higher GPA in order to apply for this scholarship.
  • This scholarship is open to current junior students only.
  • Applicants must show a strong educational interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) educational tracts.
  • Applicants must demonstrate leadership through academic achievements at Catholic Central and by volunteering in community activities in the greater Grand Rapids area.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Applicants must provide a document listing the following:
  • All academic achievements received at Catholic Central High School.
  • STEM activities that you have been associated with in grade school and high school (seminars, workshops, books read).
  • All volunteering experiences in the greater Grand Rapids area
  • Career goals and objectives.
  • Applicants must write a one (1) page essay not to exceed 500 words explaining their interest in STEM. Think carefully about this statement; it is a critical part of the selection process.
  • A one (1) page letter of recommendation from a teacher, mentor, and advisor must accompany the application.

Francis J. Geary Scholarship
This scholarship recognizes and awards students who best reflect and show a commitment to the values of academic excellence, service, and leadership.
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • All applicants must be of good character and have demonstrated a consistent respect for authority.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Write a one (1) page essay (not to exceed 500 words) answering the following questions:
  • What does Catholic Education mean to me?
  • How has an education at a Catholic high school impacted me?
  • What are my short- and long-term educational/professional goals?
  • How will I use my Catholic education in the future to improve my community?
  • How many volunteer/community service hours have I completed each year at school?

The Reed Family Music Scholarship Fund
Criteria
  • Financial need is not a primary consideration; Blackbaud Financial aid is not required to apply for this scholarship.
  • Open to current junior student(s) at Catholic Central High School.
  • Must participate and list any music classes and arts activities outside of school.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Short essay not to exceed one (1) written page answering the following questions:
  • What does being involved in music mean to me (in general and at Catholic Central High School)?
  • How has the Catholic Central music program impacted my family?

David M. Seamon Leadership Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is of primary consideration.
  • Available to current juniors entering their senior year.
  • All applicants must be of good character and have demonstrated a consistent respect for authority.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Applicants must write a one (1) page essay describing current leadership roles in the community and high school.

Jared T. Pilczuk Lifetime of Service Scholarship
Do what you can for others, when you can, while you can. This scholarship is named in honor of Jared T. Pilczuk ’17, who dedicated his all-too-short life to serving others. Jared embodied Catholic Central’s mission: he was truly a servant leader living a Christ-centered life. Eligible applicants for this scholarship will demonstrate a similar love of their faith and commitment to the service of others.
Criteria
  • Financial need is not a primary consideration; Blackbaud Financial Aid is not required to apply for this scholarship.
  • This scholarship is open to current junior students only.
  • Applicants will exhibit dedication to community service and bettering the lives of others.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application form.
  • Applicants must submit an essay (up to one page) describing the importance of their faith and their commitment to the service of others.
The Dennis W. Campbell Memorial Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is a consideration.
  • All applicants must achieve a minimum GPA of 2.5.
  • Open to juniors who plan to go to college with the intent of earning a four-year degree OR who will be attending a two-year college or a trade/vocational school to become proficient in a career field or trade that will allow them to return home after graduating to assist in their family-owned business.*
  • Must have completed 20 hours of community service on an annual basis.
  • This scholarship is renewable; juniors who attain this scholarship may reapply as graduating seniors.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Write a 500-word essay explaining why you need this scholarship; applicants should address financial need in this essay.
  • Provide the name and address of your family business and your work experience in the business.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Include two letters of reference (from teachers, church leaders, employers, etc.).
    *Examples of trades/vocations include, but are not limited to, motorcycle/small engine repair, education and child care, culinary/baking, electronics repair, travel and tourism, interior design, plumbing, heating and refrigeration, art and design, barbering, drafting and design, massage therapy, and cosmetology.

Transfer student scholarships

The Lawrence and Patricia Ranazzi Transfer Scholarship
Criteria
  • Based on financial need.
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA.
  • Available to incoming sophomores, juniors, and seniors who transfer to Catholic Central High School from a local public or private educational institution.
  • Must participate in extracurricular activities.
  • Applicants must provide proof of community service.
  • Scholarship is renewable for up to two (2) years provided the requirements and criteria are met.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Must write a one (1) page essay that answers: “Why is it important to me to continue my education at Catholic Central High School?”
  • Completed scholarship applications from eligible CC transfer students will be due May 3, 2025.

graduating senior scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, graduating Catholic Central seniors have the opportunity to apply for three scholarships. Applications for these scholarships are due on March 28, 2024.
  • College-bound scholarships require completed FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).
  • Scholarships will be awarded directly to the student’s college tuition account in August 2024. No money will be given to the student or their families.
Click on each endowed scholarship name below for more information about criteria and the application submission requirements.
If you have any questions or need further information, please email scholarships@grcatholiccentral.org.
APPLY NOW
Mary Lynn Kampfschulte Scholarship Fund
Criteria
  • Financial need will be of primary consideration.
  • Available to a Catholic Central senior student who will be studying Education in college.
  • Applicant will have strong desire to help students in a classroom setting, any grade level.
  • Scholarship is renewable if the required criteria are met. Eligible students must reapply yearly.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Completed FAFSA.
  • Write a minimum ½ page essay describing any work you’ve done with students. Examples could include, but are not limited to peer tutoring, working in a classroom, volunteering in a CCD classroom.

Frank and Mary Hernes Memorial Scholarship for Graduating Seniors
Criteria
  • Financial need will be of primary consideration.
  • Minimum of 3.0 GPA.
  • Awarded to a Catholic Central High School graduating senior who will be attending a two (2) or four (4) year college.
  • Minimum 20 hours of community service.
  • Must respect authority, obey school rules, and maintain a high attendance record.

Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Completed FAFSA.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Write a two (2) page essay explaining how the Catholic education you have received at Catholic Central High School has prepared you for college and the secular world you will encounter.
The Dennis W. Campbell Memorial Scholarship
Criteria
  • Financial need is not a primary consideration.
  • All applicants must achieve a minimum GPA of 2.5.
  • Open to graduating seniors who plan to go to college with the intent of earning a four-year degree OR who will be attending a two-year college or a trade/vocational school to become proficient in a career field or trade that will allow them to return home after graduating to assist in their family-owned business.*
  • Must have completed 20 hours of community service on an annual basis.
  • This scholarship is renewable; recipients must reapply each year to be considered.
Submission Requirements
  • Completed scholarship application.
  • Write a 500-word essay explaining why you need this scholarship.
  • Provide the name and address of your family business and your work experience in the business.
  • Verification of completed community service requirement.
  • Include two letters of reference (from teachers, church leaders, employers, etc.).
    *Examples of trades/vocations include, but are not limited to, motorcycle/small engine repair, education and child care, culinary/baking, electronics repair, travel and tourism, interior design, plumbing, heating and refrigeration, art and design, barbering, drafting and design, massage therapy, and cosmetology.
a group of students standing on top of a lush green field

Events

View Events
a young man standing in front of a bookshelf

Visit

Plan a Visit
a group of people standing around a desk

Apply

Apply Today