OUR MISSION:

The Higher Education Ministry at Sharp Street United Methodist Church is dedicated to fostering academic excellence and supporting the educational and faith-filled journeys of our church family. Grounded in faith and community, our ministry seeks to uplift young people as they embark on the path of higher education, ensuring that education supports personal growth and spiritual development.

Sharp Street UMC offers the Thelma E. Ricks Scholarship Award, which was established by the United Methodist Women, to recognize academic achievement and financially support students pursuing higher education.

AWARDS:

Scholarship awards will be awarded to students on an annual basis. Initial awards will focus on one scholastic year and may be renewed annually for up to four years (for full-time students).

ELIGIBILITY:

• Active member or participant of Sharp Street United Methodist Church

• High school graduate, current accredited college/university student, or graduate student

• GPA of 2.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale.

• Evidence of acceptance to an accredited college or university

• Must participate in extracurricular school activities

• Must participate in church and community service activities

APPLICATION PROCEDURES:

The application process is open from Dec. 15, 2023 – Mar. 30, 2024.

• Submit your completed SSUMC Thelma E. Ricks Scholarship Application Form

• 500-word essay

• An official copy of your high school or College/University transcript

• A copy of your Acceptance Letter to an Accredited College or University (for newly enrolled students)

• Reference letter from an adult member of Sharp Street who is not a family member.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION IS MARCH 30, 2024.

Scholarships will be awarded based on GPA requirement, essay, and interview.

Thelma E. Ricks Scholarship Application

AWARD INTERVIEW & DECISION:

An interview with the Thelma E. Ricks Scholarship committee will be scheduled with you after reviewing your completed packet.

Awards will be announced in June.

WHAT IS AVAILABLE?

Scholarships in the amount of at least $500.00, subject to increase based on available funds.

Scholarships are renewable each year based on available funds. You must submit the scholarship application packet requesting a renewal with an official copy of your college transcript to date at the time of each renewal request.

DISBURSEMENT OF FUNDS

Funds will be paid directly to the College/University where the recipient is actively enrolled.

Scholarships are renewable each year based on available funds. You must submit the scholarship application packet requesting a renewal with an official copy of your college transcript to date at the time of each renewal request.

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION IS MARCH 30, 2024.