Robert and Susan Payne Foundation Scholarship for Education Students
Fall 2026 and Spring 2027
This scholarship was established by Robert and Susan Payne to support a full time, undergraduate secondary or elementary education student who has junior status at Western Connecticut State University. The applicants must be eligible for tri-state tuition and fees with a minimum GPA of 2.75 and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship will be for four consecutive semesters for $ 5,000 per year for a total of $10,000. To be considered a finalist you must write a short essay describing yourself and the reason you are pursuing a degree in Secondary or Elementary Education.
Additional Preferences:
1. GPA of 3.0 or higher.
2. First-generation college student.
Requirements for Disbursement
- School: SPS
- Major: Elementary or Secondary Education
- Student Type: Undergraduate – Returning
- Financial Need: Yes
- Earned Credits: 60
- GPA: 2.75
- Enrollment: Full Time
- Additional Requirements: Essay
- Preferences: First Generation, 3.0 GPA
- Submission of Post-Acceptance Materials
_This scholarship is renewable for a student’s senior year provided they are meeting the original requirements. _
- Award
- $5000.00
- Deadline
- 03/01/2026
- Supplemental Questions
- Please write an essay describing yourself and your reason for pursuing a career in your major. We encourage you to write your essay in your own voice. While it’s fine to use tools like AI for brainstorming or editing, the essay should reflect your personal thoughts, experiences, and individuality. Please ensure that your essay is not written entirely by AI and includes personal examples and anecdotes where appropriate. Your unique perspective and voice are essential to helping us understand who you are and why you deserve a scholarship.