Applications are now being accepted for Salem Community Foundation scholarships. All students residing in Salem City or Perry Township who are attending Kent State Salem and are pursuing their first associate or bachelor’s degree are eligible for the award. Students must complete the Salem Community Foundation Scholarship application in order to receive up to 15 percent of tuition. Eligible students may either pick up an application at Kent State Salem’s student services office or print one off and turn it in. Applications must be turned in to this office before the start of each semester. 

The Community Foundation, which was created in 1966, strives to improve the quality of life in Salem and the immediate area. Since 1998 more than 2,000 students have received tuition assistance totaling approximately $500,000 to attend the Salem Campus.

“The Salem Community Foundation seeks to make a difference in our community,” said Foundation President John E. Tonti. “Being able to assist students here in Salem helps fulfill our mission for making the area a better place for our residents. It is our hope that through this gift these students can in turn be a part in this mission.”  

In 2008, Salem Community Foundation granted more than $1,396,144 to a wide variety of nonprofit activities, including the arts and humanities, education, environmental projects, human services, and public and community services.

“It’s a really great stepping stone to help students achieve their bachelor’s degrees,” said Grants Coordinator Melissa Costa. “We’ve received a thank you from nearly every student who has received a grant, and they are very appreciative of how the foundation is able to assist them. Sometimes, we’re brought to tears. This helps so many.”  Additional information about the Salem Community Foundation can be found at www.salemcommunityfoundation.org.