Samantha Smith Essay Scholarship (Educational Scholarship)

Samantha Smith Essay Scholarship

Overview: The Samantha C. Smith Foundation provides annual educational scholarships to deserving students. The foundation was established in September 2004 following Samantha's passing in a boating accident. In lieu of flowers, donations are directed to educational and youth hockey scholarships in Samantha's name.

Geographic Scope: New Hampshire, US (Auburn, NH based)

Focus Areas: Educational scholarships for high school students and young adults pursuing higher education

Award Amounts:

Eligibility Requirements

• Between ages 14-18 (high school) and no older than 40 years old
• Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a four-point scale upon graduation from high school/GED or most recent post-high school education level
• Must complete application form answering all questions
• Must acknowledge and accept AI Policy Disclaimer

Essay Requirements

• Topic (2026): "Samantha loved to read and was known for reading 3 different books at once. Yet, there was one particular book that captured her completely and holding her full attention. By her questions, one could see it had made an impression on her at such a young age, teaching her valuable life lessons and leaving her in awe. Have you ever read a book or watched a fictional movie that had this kind of impact on you?"
• Typed essay in Cambria Font, Font Size 12, Single Spaced
• Pages must be numbered
• No applicant name on essay or in essay content

Special Conditions

• If winner has not yet graduated from high school, scholarship funds will be held in a bond-bearing interest account and dispersed upon high school graduation or obtainment of GED
• One scholarship awarded for each place (first, second, third)

Contact Information:

Background: Founded September 2004 in memory of Samantha who died in a boating accident. Has awarded over $250,000 to deserving students over the last 15+ years.