1. To be considered for the scholarship, you must be a graduating senior who meets one of the following:

   • You are graduating from Jackson Public Schools, or

   • You are a member at Cade Chapel M.B. Church, or

   • ​You are a resident of the Virden Addition Community.
     **Applicant must meet only one of the above criteria. **
      

2. Apply with the required documents and attach a recent appropriate photo (no snapshots).
    

3. Have a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or above on a 4.0 scale.
    

4. Includes a copy of high school transcript (including grades from the first semester of senior year).
   **Note: If selected as a 2024 recipient, a copy of your final transcript will be required before scholarship funds are disbursed.
    

5. Must include two (2) letters of recommendation. One letter MUST be from a high school teacher or Administrator/Principal. This letter should speak to the applicant's past academic performance and future potential. The second letter MUST be from a community leader, organization director/leader, or church member, who can discuss the applicant's character and involvement in the community, church, or school activities.
    

6. A narrative including the following headings and describing: (1) Why you should be awarded this scholarship, (2) Your Personal Motivation (What Motivates or drives you to be successful?), and (3) Your Future Ambitions or Plans. Use a separate paragraph for each topic, be specific in your descriptions.
    

7. Attach a copy of the applicant’s most recent ACT/SAT and/or GED scores.
    

8. Attach a College Acceptance Letter from the college or university. Note: A letter of intent, pending completion of required classes, or Financial Aid documentation is not acceptable.
    

9. The first half of the scholarship award will be presented to recipients at the Nate Ruffin Scholarship Gala. The second half of the award will be disbursed upon submission of Mid-term enrollment verification dated after November 1, 2024. This documentation should be emailed to nateruffinscholarship@gmail.com. The verification form should be submitted by November 30, 2024. The second half of the award will be distributed by December 15, 2024.

Incomplete applications or documents received late will not be considered for an award. You may submit any questions regarding the application via email to nateruffinscholarship@gmail.com.