Albert James Shoosmith Scholarship Program

About the Shoosmith Scholarship Application

Albert James (Bert) Shoosmith Scholarship Program was established by Virginia Nursery & Landscape Association in 2003 to help students working toward their first undergraduate degree. VNLA will award scholarships of $1,500 to two or more students enrolled in a college or university for the next academic year and two or more scholarships of $750 to students enrolled in 2-year community college program. The scholarship may not exceed the costs of education billed by the school. Scholarship money will be paid directly to the school.

Requirements for Application

It is the applicant’s responsibility to see that all information, including transcripts, is received by the VNLA scholarship administrator by the May 31 deadline. VNLA will not be responsible for lost or misdirected mail.

Applicant must submit:

1. An OFFICIAL high school or college transcript for the most recently completed semester. Transcripts must be received by the VNLA scholarship administrator directly from the school in a sealed stamped envelope BEFORE the April 15deadline.

2. An original plus two (2) copies of the following:

1. Completed Bert Shoosmith Scholarship application (included below).

2. Typed, double-spaced essay.

Essay may be a maximum of 500 words:

Describe why this VNLA scholarship is important to you. Include any special challenges or goals you may have. Explain other financial responsibilities or expenses.

Selection Criteria: Applicants will be evaluated on scholastic achievement and strength of curriculum, school activities, volunteer service, hours devoted to work, honors and awards, student need and the essay.

Awarding of Scholarships: Decisions are made by the VNLA Scholarship Committee in conjunction with the VNLA Executive Director. All decisions will be final. Applicants will be notified by mail.

All applications and transcripts must be received by May 31.