Josephine Rudy Smith Scholarship Fund Grant

Josephine Rudy Smith Scholarship Fund Grant

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: The Kentucky Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church
Amount: Up to US $4,000
Last Updated: September 22, 2025

Summary

The Josephine Rudy Smith Scholarship Fund Grant, established in 1948 in memory of Josephine Rudy Smith, supports ministerial students in the Kentucky Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. Funded initially by a donation of $40,000 and ongoing contributions, it is administered by a committee of church leaders. Eligible candidates must be certified for ordained ministry, hold a bachelor's degree, and maintain a GPA of 3.0. Awards can reach up to $4,000, aiding students in their seminary journey.

Overview

Josephine Rudy Smith was a member of First United Methodist Church in Henderson, Kentucky. In 1948, Mrs. Smith’s son initiated the fund through a donation of $40,000, in her memory, for the purpose of assisting ministerial students with their seminary expenses. Matching funds were provided by First United Methodist Church and the former Louisville Annual Conference. Mr. Smith continued to donate funds for several years so that the fund would become a sustaining entity. Administration of the Josephine Rudy Smith Fund A committee of laity and clergy are charged with the administration of the fund. The fund is housed at Mrs. Rudy’s First United Methodist Church of Henderson. The senior pastor of the church, the president of the Owensboro District UMW, the Owensboro district superintendent, the director of Ministerial Services and the resident bishop of the Kentucky Annual Conference are also members of the committee. The Ministerial Services office of the Kentucky Annual Conference provides crucial logistical assistance for the committee. The fund is professionally managed by Field & Main Bank. Amount Recipients will be awarded up to $4,000.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Applicants must be certified candidates for ordained ministry in the Kentucky Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from a college or university recognized by the University Senate of the United Methodist Church. Applicants must attend a United Methodist Seminary or school of theology approved by the University Senate of the United Methodist Church. Applicants must be seeking ordination as deacons or elders, with the intention of entering pastoral ministry in the Kentucky Annual Conference. Applicants must be recommended by their district superintendent. Undergraduates, persons completing a second master’s degree (other than MDiv), and persons working on their doctorate are not eligible for these scholarship funds. Applicants must maintain a cumulative grade point average of 3.0 (or its equivalent) in coursework and be making progress toward their degree.