RALEIGH — The state’s economic vitality is tied to the skills of its workforce. Trends show that by 2030, nearly two-thirds of North Carolina’s jobs will require a post-secondary degree or credential. With a Golden LEAF Scholarship, more rural students will have the financial resources to attend community college and gain knowledge and skills needed to meet the needs of our state’s employers.
Since establishing the scholarship program in 2000, the Golden LEAF Foundation has provided more than 21,000 scholarships totaling $14.7 million for rural students attending the state’s community colleges to earn degrees and credentials that will lead to employment. The Golden LEAF Scholarship Program is one component to support the mission of Golden LEAF to help build the rural workforce.
“Golden LEAF is proud to help support the development of the talent, knowledge and skills of our rural workforce,” said Scott T. Hamilton, Golden LEAF president, chief executive officer. “We see this investment as critical to the success of our rural communities.”
Students attending or planning to attend any of North Carolina’s participating community colleges who reside in a qualifying county and demonstrate financial need are eligible to apply.
The Golden LEAF Community Colleges Scholarships are valued at up to $2,250 per school year, including summer term, for curriculum students and up to $1,850 per year for students enrolling in occupational programs. Awards can be applied toward tuition, fees, books, supplies at the community college where enrolled, transportation, childcare expenses related to attending classes, and credential testing upon course completion.
Each participating college will set the deadline for the scholarship application. Contact your college’s financial aid office as soon as you plan to enroll to determine application deadlines. Information is available at your financial aid office and must be returned to the financial office. Please do not send your information to the Golden LEAF Foundation.
