Mary Jeanne Kennedy Anderson Youth Faith in Action Scholarship

Geographic Scope: Diocese of Madison, Wisconsin

Number of Awards: Typically 2-4 scholarships awarded annually

Background

This scholarship was established in 2014 in memory of Mary Jeanne Kennedy Anderson, a retired Madison-area nurse who served on the Catholic Charities board of directors and various committees. She was a devoted mother of five and grandmother of nine who enjoyed volunteering and directing her energies to helping others. She passed away on December 6, 2013, from ovarian cancer. The scholarship was established by her family and Catholic Charities.

Purpose

The scholarship honors high school seniors who exemplify faith not merely as belief, but as a way of life. It recognizes young Catholics in the Diocese of Madison who have demonstrated:

• Outstanding service and spiritual commitment
• The courage to live the Gospel in their daily lives
• Active involvement in parish and community life, including leadership roles
• A clear commitment to living their Catholic faith through action and service

Eligibility Requirements

• Residency: Must reside in the Diocese of Madison
• Parish Membership: Must be a current member of a parish/pastorate within the Diocese of Madison
• Grade Level: Must be a high school senior during the year of application
• Academic: Minimum 3.0 GPA
• Future Plans: Must plan to attend a college, university, or technical school

Award Presentation

Scholarships are presented annually at Frassati Fest in Wisconsin Dells (typically in February) by Bishop Donald J. Hying and Catholic Charities Executive Director.

Contact Information

• Phone: 608-826-8000 or 608-826-8096 (Sandra Lampman)
• Email: scholarship@ccmadison.org
• Website: catholiccharitiesofmadison.org/scholarship

Application Process

Deadline: December 12 (annually)

Required Materials:

1. Completed Application Form
   • Available online at catholiccharitiesofmadison.org/scholarship
2. Typed Essay (300-400 words)
   • Describe how you have put your faith into action
   • Explain how you plan to continue putting your faith into action in your life
   • Discuss the importance this holds for you and your community
3. Personal Reference Questionnaire
   • Must be completed by one of the following:
   • Parish priest
   • Deacon
   • Director of religious education
   • The reference documents your level of parish/pastorate involvement
   • Alternatively, may be completed by a priest or deacon previously assigned to your parish

Evaluation Criteria:

• Past and current parish/pastorate and community service, including leadership roles
• Commitment to a future that encompasses dedication to putting faith into action

Submission Methods:

• Scan completed materials and email to scholarship@ccmadison.org, OR
• Upload on the application page at catholiccharitiesofmadison.org/scholarship

Questions:

• Email: scholarship@ccmadison.org
• Phone: 608-826-8096 (Sandra Lampman) or 608-826-8000