Boomer Esiason Foundation Academic Scholarships

The Boomer Esiason Foundation Academic Scholarship is dedicated to easing the financial burden on students living with cystic fibrosis, allowing them to focus on their education and achieve their goals. Each year, BEF awards scholarships to outstanding students who demonstrate resilience, determination, and academic dedication. Additional financial assistance may be available through designated scholarship distinctions.

Scholarship Designations

As part of the application process, students may choose to submit a long-form essay in response to a specific question tied to one of the following scholarship designations. Completing the essay automatically qualifies applicants for consideration for additional financial assistance under that designation:

• Bonnie Strangio Memorial Scholarship

Awarded to a student who embodies Bonnie’s positive spirit and can-do attitude. This recipient approaches life with enthusiasm, values family and friendship, and pursues their goals with passion despite living with CF.

• Rosemary Quigley Memorial Scholarship

Recognizes a student who refuses to let CF limit their potential, and who has a passion for academics particularly in the fields of medicine, health policy, or law, areas that reflected Rosemary’s own interests.

• Jerry Cahill You Cannot Fail Distinction

Honors a student on a journey of self-discovery who embraces life’s challenges, shares their story to inspire others, and celebrates the unique path that shapes their identity.

• Lea Faraone Memorial Scholarship

Celebrates a student who lives life on their own terms boldly, passionately, and with a deep commitment to the CF community. Lea loved to travel and was a strong advocate for those with CF.

• Tiffany Rich Memorial Scholarship

Awarded in honor of Tiffany Rich, who cherished friendship above all and created a safe, joyful space for everyone in her circle. This designation celebrates a student who uplifts others through kindness, connection, and unwavering encouragement—especially in the face of life’s challenges. In Tiffany’s spirit, applicants are encouraged to text or call a friend to share their appreciation before submitting their application.

• Team Boomer Distinction

Awarded to a student who values physical fitness and actively participates in athletics as part of their CF management and overall wellness.

• Exemplary Graduate Student Distinction

Designed for students with CF pursuing graduate studies. Ideal candidates are well-rounded, driven to achieve academic excellence, and open about their experience with CF.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Have a confirmed diagnosis of cystic fibrosis
• Be a US citizen or legal permanent resident of the US
• Be enrolled in or accepted to an undergraduate or graduate program
• Demonstrate academic achievement, strong character, leadership, community service, and financial need

Application Requirements

To be considered, applicants must submit the following:

• Completed scholarship application
• Letter from a physician (on official letterhead) confirming CF diagnosis and outlining therapy regimen
• Academic transcript(s)  high school, college, or graduate school
• Detailed tuition breakdown from the academic institution (required for incoming freshmen only)
• W-2 forms for both parents, or tax return if self-employed

Selected semi-finalists will be contacted for a phone interview with a member of the BEF Scholarship Committee.