Ohio Masonic organizations proved themselves to be very generous, giving $425,000 in scholarships in the last year. This includes the well-known programs in the state by the Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation, Scottish Rite Abbott Scholarships, and Ohio Masonic Home Foundation. These three institutions gave about $155,000 in scholarships last year. In addition, however, and almost hidden from view, 160 of Ohio’s Masonic Lodges gave 380 local scholarships worth $270,000.
Each Winter and Spring, college-bound students from across Ohio begin their own ritual of applying for college scholarships. Their needs are very real. According to the State of Ohio, the average annual cost to attend a public university main campus in Ohio including tuition, books, room and board equate to $25,000. Students can reduce their costs by attending
university branch campuses or community colleges; but for many, scholarships and loans are an essential part
of funding their education.
Grand Lodge Scholarships are awarded in each of Ohio’s twenty-five Masonic districts. Usually, two awards are given, one each to a male and female student. Applications are turned in to the District Scholarship Committee, screened, and forwarded to the Grand Lodge for action.
The Abbot Scholarships are a program of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite Northern Masonic Jurisdiction. They are distributed through the twelve Valleys in Ohio. Applications are made through the Valley.
The Ohio Masonic Home Scholarships are an award, established by the Home to honor its original mission to serve not only distressed Master Masons and their widows, but also the children of Masons. Applications are made directly to the Home, and while all may apply, Masonic orphans are given a preference in the application process.
Local lodge scholarships are more difficult to find, and Masons should check with their local lodges to see if any are being offered. Award criteria will vary by lodge. While some extra effort may be involved, with local scholarships being the largest block of giving in Ohio, finding out if your lodge offers scholarships could bring big benefits.
If you would like to help Ohio’s young scholars make a college education a reality, consider a gift or bequest to the organization of your choice: Grand Lodge Charitable Foundation, Scottish Rite Charities, or the Ohio Masonic Home Foundation. Becoming a scholarship donor is a positive way to invest in the future.
