HAW-Fifty Six Scholarship Program

Purpose

haw56-image of three friends

Established in 2019, the HAW-Fifty-Six Annual Scholarship honors three friends from Southwest Fresno who graduated high school together in 1956. This scholarship provides financial assistance to local African American students, aiming to equip and empower intrinsically motivated individuals pursuing a career, undergraduate, or graduate degree.

Students from all areas are welcome to apply. While it is not required to live in Southwest, West Fresno, 93706, or attend Edison High or Legacy Commons, we highly encourage students from these areas to apply as well.

Scholarships will be awarded to local African American students who demonstrate a strong desire to attain academic success, thrive in their endeavors, serve their community, and contribute to its organic improvement. The donors are committed to supporting local African-American students by providing the financial resources necessary to achieve their educational and career goals.

The scholarship awards are given in increments of either $2,000 or $5,000. Students are required to be enrolled in a Vocational Certificate Program, Incoming Freshman, a college Sophomore/Junior/Senior or attending Graduate School.

ELIGIBILITY

Scholarship applicants must meet each of the following requirements:

  • Be African American or of African American Descent or ancestry
  • Enrolled in a Vocational Certificate Program or an Incoming Freshman, or a college Sophomore/Junior/Senior or a Graduate School student
  • Cumulative GPA of 5 or above
  • Personal Statement – All applicants are required to submit a 500 to 1000-word essay that demonstrates aptitude, desire, commitment, and tenacious desire to succeed.

DUE DATE

Application is due March 31, 2025. Funds will be dispersed no later than June 1, 2025. Submit online application here.

(Submissions will be accepted through March 31st, 2025).

Process

Application and all supplemental materials are due in order for the application to be considered complete.

APPLICATION

Applicants must submit a completed scholarship application, along with all required addendums, including a personal statement, proof of registration and transcripts. An incomplete application will be considered ineligible and will not be considered for a scholarship award.

APPLICATION MATERIAL CHECKLIST

  • Application: 2025-2026 fully completed and submitted online.
  • Proof of Registration: For the Academic school year (Fall 2025 and Spring 2026). You will be asked to attach this document/information to this completed application.
  • Personal statement: A typed personal statement no less than 500 and no more than 1000 words – will be attached to the online application in Microsoft Word or PDF:
    • Topic: Please share an experience that describes your proudest moment and what inspired you to continue learning. What additional experiences are you seeking, including any education and career opportunities, and how will these help you reach your goals? Additionally, please share any connections you have to Edison High School, the 93706-zip code, Southwest Fresno, or West Fresno.
      • Please prepare this personal note on a typed document submitted via Microsoft Word or PDF format – no less than 500 and no more than 1000 words. You will be asked to attach this personal statement to this completed application.
    • Academic Transcript: If applying as an incoming college freshman, provide a recent high school or GED transcript, including GPA. If applying as a continuing college student, provide the most recent and full college transcript, including GPA.

HOW TO SUBMIT:

Submit online application here

(Submissions will be accepted through March 31st, 2025).

Questions regarding the HAW Fifty-Six Scholarship process: [email protected]

ADMINISTRATION:

Funds for this annual scholarship shall be held and managed by Fresno Housing and the Beyond Housing Foundation – a Fresno Housing non-profit partner.

The Scholarship Selection Panel of up to 5 Reviewers as follows: HAW-Fifty-Six (3), Fresno Housing (1), and Fresno Unified School District (1).

The Scholarship Awards will be administered by Fresno Housing in accordance with the procedures for the Education Advancement Scholarship. Scholarships of $2,000 or $5,000 will awarded. All applicants will be notified via email of their award status.

Scholarship Guide and Helpful Hints

Scholarship Application Guide

General Tips:

  1. Start Early:
    • Begin the application process well in advance to avoid last-minute stress and ensure all components are thoroughly completed.
  2. Read Instructions Carefully:
    • Carefully read all instructions and requirements for the scholarship application to ensure nothing is missed.
  3. Gather Necessary Documents:
    • Collect all required documents such as transcripts, letters of recommendation, and financial information before starting the application.

Filling Out the Application:

  1. Personal Information:
    • Ensure all personal information is accurate and up-to-date.
    • Double-check contact details to ensure they are correct.
  2. Academic Information:
    • Include accurate details about the student’s academic history, including GPA, class rank, and any honors or awards received.
    • Highlight any advanced courses or special programs the student has participated in.
  3. Extracurricular Activities:
    • List all extracurricular activities, including clubs, sports, volunteer work, and leadership roles.
    • Emphasize the student’s commitment and any significant achievements or contributions.
  4. Work Experience:
    • Include any part-time jobs, internships, or work experience.
    • Highlight skills gained and responsibilities handled.

Scholarship Narrative:

The scholarship narrative is a critical component of the application. Here are some helpful hints on what to include:

  1. Introduction:
    • Start with a strong opening that captures the reader’s attention.
    • Introduce the student and provide a brief overview of their background and aspirations.
  2. Academic Achievements:
    • Detail the student’s academic accomplishments and any challenges they have overcome.
    • Explain how their academic experiences have prepared them for future success.
  3. Personal Story:
    • Share a personal story that highlights the student’s character, values, and determination.
    • Discuss any obstacles they have faced and how they have persevered.
  4. Community Involvement:
    • Describe the student’s involvement in the community and any volunteer work they have done.
    • Highlight the impact of their contributions and any leadership roles they have taken on.
  5. Career Goals:
    • Clearly outline the student’s career goals and how the scholarship will help them achieve these goals.
    • Explain why they are passionate about their chosen field of study.
  6. Financial Need:
    • If applicable, provide a brief explanation of the student’s financial need.
    • Discuss how the scholarship will alleviate financial burdens and enable them to focus on their studies.
  7. Conclusion:
    • End with a strong conclusion that reiterates the student’s qualifications and enthusiasm for the scholarship.
    • Thank the scholarship committee for considering their application.

Additional Tips:

  1. Proofread:
    • Carefully proofread the entire application for spelling and grammatical errors.
    • Consider having someone else review the application for additional feedback.
  2. Be Authentic:
    • Encourage the student to be genuine and honest in their narrative.
    • Authenticity can make a significant impact on the scholarship committee.
  3. Follow Formatting Guidelines:
    • Adhere to any formatting guidelines provided, such as word count, font size, and spacing.
    • Ensure the application is neat and well-organized.
  4. Highlight Unique Qualities:
    • Emphasize what makes the student unique and why they are a deserving candidate for the scholarship.
    • Highlight any special talents, skills, or experiences that set them apart.