The R.W. Sorrell Scholarship Fund is a 501C-3 tax-exempt organization created  to promote and support higher educational goals for minority students. Graduating high school seniors who plan to attend a four-year accredited college/university full-time in the fall of 2024, and residing in Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties have the opportunity to apply for a four (4) year scholarship valued at $5,000 per year.

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When Robert W. Sorrell, the founder of the R.W. Sorrell Scholarship Fund  conceived the program in 2006, a primary selection criterion for the recipients, in addition to their academic performance, was an analysis of their involvement in community-based activities, throughout their pre-college lives. We are looking to award scholarships to  students who have demonstrated a commitment to learning, who exhibit leadership ability and are involved in volunteer and community service activities that enrich their communities and make an impact beyond self.

 

Eligibility Requirements for High School Student Applicants:
The term of the scholarship is four years ($5,000 annually) as long as the student continues to meet eligibility requirements.  A completed application requires submission of the following documents to be considered as a recipient of our scholarship: 
 

• Must  be a 2024 high school graduating senior residing in one of the five counties identified above
   

• Must be planning to attend a 4- year college/university as a full time student
   

•  Must provide letter of acceptance to college/university if received
   

• Have a grade point average of B or better
   

• Submit a completely filled out application form
   

• Submit an official, sealed  high school transcript
   

• A resume
   

• Two references (one should be from a teacher or counselor)
   

• A 500- 600 word essay summarizing your past, present and future volunteer and community service activities
   

Renewal Requirements to Maintain Scholarship over Four (4) Year Award Period:

At the end of each semester, the Scholarship Board of Directors reserves the right to request and review the student's academic performance.  Renewal of the scholarship is not guaranteed automatically. Renewal is at the discretion of the R.W. Sorrell Scholarship Fund's Board of Directors, but is primarily based on the following requirements being met each year.

 

• Complete a minimum of 12 hours each semester.
   

• Maintain a B cumulative grade point average.
   

• Provide a copy of your transcript.
   

• Submit a 1-2 page “Narrative” reviewing the past academic year, and highlighting challenges and successes including community service and/or extra-curricular activities to the R.W. Sorrell Scholarship Fund by May 15 each year.

 

• Notify any changes in status, course of study or transfer to a different college/university.
   

• Adhere to the university/college’s rules of conduct.

 

Internships

The R.W. Sorrell Scholarship Fund (RWSSF) offers recipients an opportunity to participate  in a paid summer internship program through our partnership with Independence Blue Cross (IBC).  Internships last approximately six weeks for rising sophomores, juniors and seniors and approximately 5 weeks for rising freshmen.  If the internship is accepted by the recipient, the expectation is that the recipient actively participates, follows IBC rules of conduct, be punctual and attend work each day. RWSSF may from time to time check with the corporation regarding the recipient's participation. RWSSF strongly encourages continued participation in community service/extracurricular activities as we believe service to others strengthen experiences, insight and our communities.