Civics Legacy Semiquincentennial Scholarship

In celebration of America’s Semiquincentennial and Arizona’s commitment to civic education, the Dougherty Foundation and the Arizona America250 Commission are proud to launch the Civics Semiquincentennial Scholarship. This scholarship honors high school and college students who demonstrate exceptional civic knowledge, engagement, and leadership.

Eligible applicants must be current Arizona high school (grades 9–12), community college, or university students who demonstrate a strong commitment to civic learning and community involvement. Applicants must either have graduated from an Arizona high school or have lived in Arizona for at least three years prior to enrolling in college. Students who have earned or are actively pursuing the Arizona Seal of Civics Literacy are encouraged to apply.

While earning the Arizona Seal of Civics Literacy is not a requirement to apply, the values it promotes—such as civic responsibility, public service, and informed participation—align closely with the goals of this scholarship. Students interested in careers that serve the public good are especially encouraged to apply. These may include fields such as:
Public Administration
Teaching and Education
School Counseling
Election Administration
Social and Nonprofit Work

The Civics Legacy Semiquincentennial Scholarship supports students who embody the spirit of active citizenship and are committed to shaping Arizona’s future through informed participation and service. Awardees will receive financial support toward their educational goals and be recognized as part of Arizona’s America250 commemorative efforts.

Scholarship Partners of the Arizona America 250 Commission

The Rotary Club of Scottsdale
The Rotary Club of Scottsdale, in partnership with generous donors, is pleased to announce a competitive scholarship program available to students from five Scottsdale high schools. Guidance Counselors at each school may nominate two students to apply in each scholarship category, with a total of seven to ten categories offered. Each category will award a first-place scholarship of approximately $5,000 and a second-place scholarship of approximately $2,500. Scholarships are awarded in the name of the donor and the Rotary Club of Scottsdale, recognizing excellence and supporting students as they pursue their educational goals. Award total: $47,000
For more information: https://www.scottsdalerotary.org/sitepage/scholarships

The Rotary Club of Paradise Valley
The Rotary Club of Paradise Valley is committed to expanding access to high-demand vocational careers by supporting students at Gateway Community College and Paradise Valley Community College. The club will provide $7,000 to each community college to assist students pursuing vocational enrollment in programs such as EEG, Polysomnography, Surgical Technology, Paramedic and EMT, with funding allocated based on the specific financial needs of the selected students. The objective of the Rotary Club of Paradise Valley is to impact as many students as possible by reducing financial barriers and helping students successfully enter these essential healthcare and emergency service fields. Award total: $14,000

The Mesa West Rotary Club
The Mesa West Rotary Club is proud to announce a scholarship opportunity for Westwood High School students, celebrating inspiring young leaders who have made a positive impact on people and their communities. This program is open to current seniors or graduates of Westwood High School. Mesa West Rotary will award four (4) scholarships of $2,000 each to support students as they pursue their post-secondary education or career pathways, reflecting the club’s ongoing commitment to leadership, service, and educational opportunity. Award total $8,000

The Fountain Hills Rotary Club
The Fountain Hills Rotary scholarship is open to all Fountain Hills High School and Homeschool graduates, and adults who live or work in Fountain Hills. The focus is a Career or Technical Education Associate’s Degree from any Maricopa Community College or Certificates from an East Valley Institute of Technology adult program. The scholarship is not applicable for a Bachelor’s degree or any graduate or professional degree. Award total $19,500

The Rotary Club of Peoria North
The Rotary Club of Peoria North is pleased to announce scholarship opportunities for graduating students in the Peoria area. These scholarships are designed to support students as they pursue higher education, vocational training, or career pathways. Through this program, the Rotary Club of Peoria North recognizes student achievement, leadership, and service while helping reduce financial barriers to continued education. Award total $12,000

The Sun City Rotary Club
The Sun City Rotary Club is pleased to announce the awarding of two (2) scholarships of $2,000 each for students who are members of the Washington High School Interact Club. These scholarships recognize Interact students who have demonstrated leadership, service, and a commitment to making a positive impact in their school and community, while supporting their continued education and future goals. Award total $4,000

The Dougherty Foundation is grateful and honored to partner with the AZ America 250 Commission and the local Rotary Clubs in our endeavor to facilitate and enhance college scholarships for Arizona students.