The Kendra Ruestow Atherton Memorial Scholarship has two options for eligibility. The first option is eligible for college-bound high school seniors enrolled in a public or private high school in Hampton Roads. The second option is eligible for Virginia Tech students.
Scholarship Details
- Open to incoming and current full-time students at Virginia Tech
- Scholarship funds will be sent directly to Virginia Tech
- Recipients will be invited to a reception during the academic year in Blacksburg
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be enrolled full-time at Virginia Tech for Fall
- Can be a high school senior, current Virginia Tech student, or transfer student from a 2- or 4-year institution
- Must have lost a parent or legal guardian to cancer
- Must show a strong interest in personal excellence and compassion for others
- Demonstrated service through school, community, or work activities
Application Process
- Prepare and submit a current résumé
- Obtain two letters of recommendation from two different roles (e.g., teacher, counselor, coach, clergy, mentor, or work supervisor)
- Write and submit two essays (each no more than 500 words)
- Be available for an interview by the scholarship committee if requested
- Submit to any verification procedures required by the committee
Kendra Ruestow Atherton was a cherished mother, companion and friend who lost her battle to a very aggressive form of cancer in November 2012 at age 43, leaving behind 3 beautiful children, 2 sisters, 4 nieces and nephews, and countless individuals who loved her dearly. She was exceptionally caring and compassionate and was dedicated to lifelong health and fitness. In November 2013, the first k5k: A Run for Kendra was held to remember her and to create this scholarship, and the event has become a tradition every November. Since then, we have awarded over $140,000 in scholarships!
