The Rooted in
Promise Scholarship.
Five $2,000 scholarships for graduating seniors in the Greater St. Louis area, ready to take the next step toward college — awarded directly to you, with proof of enrollment required. This is your invitation to apply.
From Application
to Award.
Four dates to know, from the day applications open to the night we celebrate you.
Built for Students
Like You.
The Rooted in Promise Scholarship was created for students who have worked hard against real obstacles — financial, academic, or personal — and are ready for the next chapter. We look at the whole student, not just a transcript.
- ✓ Resides in the Greater St. Louis area — City of St. Louis, St. Louis County, St. Charles County, or Metro East Illinois (St. Clair or Madison County)
- ✓ Graduating high school senior planning to enroll in college for Fall 2027
- ✓ From a household with demonstrated financial need
- ✓ First-generation college students are especially encouraged to apply
- ✓ Academic record considered in context — we know GPA doesn't tell the whole story
- ✓ Involved in community, family, work, or service in some meaningful way
- ✓ Willing to share your story — the essay matters as much as any transcript
What You'll
Need.
Gather these before you sit down to apply — it will make the process much smoother.
Tell us your story — your goals, what you've overcome, and why higher education matters to you. Authenticity matters more than polish.
A current academic transcript from your high school. We consider your full record and the context behind it.
From a teacher, counselor, employer, pastor, or community leader who knows you well — specific letters stand out most.
Basic household size and income information to help us understand your financial need.
A short list of community involvement, work experience, or family responsibilities — all count.
The name of the college or university you plan to attend in Fall 2027, if known — we'll use this to verify your enrollment before releasing funds.
$2,000. Sent
Directly to You.
Five scholars will each receive $2,000, disbursed directly to the scholar in May 2027 upon confirmation of enrollment, so families can put it toward whatever their college journey requires most. Scholars are notified personally before the banquet, then publicly celebrated at our inaugural Rooted in Promise Scholarship Banquet on April 25, 2027.
Ready When
You Are.
The application takes about 20–30 minutes. You can save your progress and come back to finish it. We're rooting for you before you even hit submit.
Applications open October 1, 2026. Questions? Email LizHarris@CynthysKidsInc.org.