McDonough Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by McDonough Scholarship Foundation
Overview
The Richard D. McDonough Scholarship Foundation is a New Hampshire-based 501(c)(3) charitable organization that awards financial assistance to eligible students who work at golf facilities in New Hampshire. Grants are available to full-time students enrolled in undergraduate programs (through the bachelor’s degree) or in accredited vocational/trade programs. Scholarships may be renewed annually for up to four years while a student is completing a bachelor’s degree. An application must be filed for each academic year a student seeks support.
Purpose and selection criteria
The Foundation’s awards prioritize applicants who show financial need, academic success, and strong character. To allow the Scholarship Committee to assess these areas, applicants must provide projected school expenses, a completed FAFSA report, a summary of all other financial aid, and official academic transcripts.
Who completes the application
The student applicant must personally complete the application form. Parental assistance is permitted to help with the financial sections, but the application itself must be filled out by the student.
Required materials and completeness
A complete submission answers every question on the form and includes all requested supporting documentation. Each applicant’s full file is reviewed to determine eligibility. Information provided may also be considered for the Foundation’s other named funds (28 endowed and 4 un-endowed), which could result in additional awards.
Eligibility (requirements to be considered)
- Employment: At least two summers of successful work at a New Hampshire golf course in roles such as caddie, pro shop staff, grounds crew, or clubhouse employee. Applicants who are entering their second season may apply, but must finish that second season by the following fall to remain eligible. New applicants must include a letter of recommendation from the golf club that employs them.
- Education: High school graduation from an accredited institution, and full-time enrollment in either an associate or bachelor’s degree program, or full-time enrollment in an accredited vocational or trade program.
- Financial need: Demonstrated need as determined by the Scholarship Committee.
- Character: Evidence of integrity, good citizenship, and positive character.
- Academic standing: A minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale and a written recommendation from the applicant’s school.
- Interview: Attendance at an annual interview with a McDonough Foundation board member and demonstrated knowledge of the Foundation’s mission. Familiarity with McDonough accounts for 25% of the interview evaluation.
Renewal and annual application
Scholarships are renewable up to four years for students pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Applicants must submit a new application each academic year they wish to be considered for renewal or a new award.
Book Award ($500)
The Foundation awards a $500 Book Award to applicants who otherwise meet the eligibility criteria but fall into one of the following situations:
- They do not demonstrate financial need, or
- They have left the supporting club for reasons other than a career-related internship, relevant employment, or summer school.
Questions about the application process or required documents may be directed to the Foundation’s contact address on the application materials.