The Cynthia Collier Finish Strong Scholarship honors the enduring spirit of Cynthia Collier, aka "Kitty", who courageously pursued higher education for 3½ years but was unable to complete her degree due to terminal illness.
This scholarship is dedicated to helping high school seniors entering college and current college students nearing graduation overcome financial hardship and achieve their academic dreams.
In her memory, this fund exists to uplift those who dare to finish strong because “every dream deserves a fighting chance.”
The Cynthia Collier
Finish Strong Scholarship
Eligibility
Open to U.S. high school seniors enrolling in college for the first time
Open to undergraduate college students who are within 30 credit hours of graduation and actively working toward completing their degree
Must demonstrate academic perseverance
Disclaimer
All applicants will be evaluated using the same criteria and are eligible to receive the highest award.
The descriptions below serve as a general rubric to help determine the top three recipients based on essay quality, personal impact, and demonstration of perseverance.
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1st Place – $1,500
This top award goes to the student whose essay powerfully captures what it means to overcome life’s toughest challenges while staying committed to their education. It's for the one whose story not only moved us, it lit a fire.
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2nd Place – $1,000
Awarded to a student whose journey reflects strength, honesty, and determination. Your essay shows us that better days aren’t just coming. You’re already paving the way, one obstacle at a time.
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3rd Place – $500
This award honors a student who may still be facing challenges, but remains deeply focused on reaching their educational goals. Your story reminded us that resilience can be quiet, but powerful.
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Deadline
All applications must be submitted by:
March 1, 2026, at 11:59 PM CST -
Submission Email
Send all required documents to:
kittyssweettaste@gmail.com(only if you do not submit electronically)
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Required Materials
Applicants must submit the following:
Completed resume & application form (online or PDF)
Proof of current or upcoming college enrollment
Essay in APA format (750–1,000 words) + cover letter
Two letters of recommendation (academic, mentor, or community leader)
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Essay Topic
“Better days are coming: Persevering through life’s obstacles to reach your educational goals.”
Write a reflective and personal essay describing your academic journey:
How have you overcome adversity?
What fuels your determination to finish your college degree?
How would this scholarship impact your ability to reach your goals?
Support your essay with personal experience, and align your narrative with the spirit of perseverance that Cynthia Collier lived by.
⚠️ Note: AI use is prohibited for this essay. Submissions must be original and authentic.