The Tessa J. Scheller Scholarship - Adult (18 or over) applications now open until August 30 2025

Overview

The Tessa J. Scheller Scholarship is dedicated to supporting 2SLGBTQIA+ students and their families in Lower Columbia Area in and around Clatsop County, Oregon, as they pursue higher education. Named in honor of Tessa J. Scheller, a dedicated advocate for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, this scholarship recognizes the resilience, achievements, and contributions of students who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ or come from 2SLGBTQIA+ families. By providing financial assistance, we aim to foster a more inclusive and supportive future for our community.

Award Amount

• There are 2 $1,000 Scholarships. One for those under the age of 19 and those 19 or older seeking to continue their education goals. The scholarship for under 19 is closed until 2026. At this time, we are only accepting applications for 19 or older.

• Funds will be paid directly to the recipient’s accredited college, university, or vocational institution.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Be a resident of Clatsop County, Oregon.

2. Identify as 2SLGBTQIA+

3. Plan to attend an accredited college, university, training or vocational program in the upcoming academic year.

Application Requirements

To apply, students must submit the following materials:

Completed Application Form

• Short Essay or Personal Statement (500–750 words) answering the prompt: “How has being a member of the LGBTQIA+ community or having LGBTQIA+ family members shaped your life, values, or goals?”

Review & Selection Process

• Applications will be reviewed by the Q Center Board.

• Selection will be based on personal statement quality and alignment with the scholarship’s mission.

Important Dates

• Application Opens: June 3 2025

• Application Deadline: August 31 2025

• Recipient Notification: September 30 2025

• Funds Disbursed to Institution: On or before October 31 2025

For questions or assistance, contact the Lower Columbia Q Center at info@lcqcpride.org.