Akerman Academic Excellence Scholarship

A scholarship program funded by law firm Akerman LLP through an endowment established in 2015 as part of their $1 million pledge to the National CASA/GAL Association.

Eligibility:

• Young adults who have spent time in foster care
• Pursuing post-secondary education at an accredited university, college, or technical school
• Demonstrate outstanding academic commitment and readiness for success

Award Details:

• Amount: $2,500 per year
• Duration: Up to 4 years of higher education
• Total endowment: Supporting multiple scholars with $10,000 contributed annually (as of 2021)

Purpose: The scholarship minimizes the financial burden of higher education for youth aging out of foster care, helping them be more successful after aging out and living independently.

Background: Since 2016, law firm Akerman LLP has granted scholarships to help young adults in foster care continue their academic journey. The program recognizes that only 15% of foster youth attend postsecondary institutions, and only about 1-3% complete college due to insufficient support, lack of appropriate guidance, and unmet financial needs.

• Phone: 1.800.628.3233
• Address: 100 West Harrison Street, North Tower, Suite 140, Seattle, WA 98119
• Address: 100 Peachtree Street NW, Suite 300, Atlanta, GA 30303
• Website: nationalcasagal.org

Application Process

Nomination-Based: The scholarship is awarded through a nomination process rather than direct applications.

How to Nominate:

• Nominations are typically accepted in early years (check website for specific timing)
• Nominees must be former foster youth associated with a CASA program
• CASA volunteers and program staff can nominate candidates
• Nominators should highlight the nominee's academic achievements, commitment to education, and readiness for success

Selection Criteria:

• Outstanding academic commitment
• Readiness for success in higher education
• Personal story of overcoming obstacles
• Community involvement and advocacy (when applicable)

Note: For current nomination deadlines and procedures, applicants should contact National CASA/GAL directly or check back on the website early each year.