The Blum Family & VCS Environmental Scholarship
Attention Island Students!
Are you pursuing an education in the environmental field? Are you working toward a career in protecting the Vineyard’s natural environment?
January 30, 2025: The Vineyard Conservation Society is thrilled to announce the creation of The Blum Family & VCS Environmental Scholarship. The new scholarship is meant to recognize Island students (MV Regional High School, MV Public Charter School, Falmouth Academy, and Homeschool) who are residents of the Vineyard and intend to pursue higher education with a focus on environmental protection. Four scholarships at $2,500 each will be available beginning in 2025.
How to Apply
All high school seniors and current college students pursuing studies with an environmental focus are encouraged to apply. Relevant plans of study include ecology, conservation biology, natural resources management, ecological restoration, sustainability studies, and marine, coastal or environmental sciences. Stewarding a thriving environment touches all aspects of our lives, so candidates might also be focused on related disciplines, including but not limited to: environmental policy; environmental engineering; environmental law; environmental ethics, justice and equity; environmental education; environmental design; climate change; and alternative energy exploration.
“It is our hope to encourage careers in conservation as well as foster a love of the environment in the next generation. We are excited to support students as they deepen their education and explore their passion for the environment.”
– Jennifer Blum, VCS Treasurer
Scholarship Background
The Vineyard Conservation Society regularly works with Island students on local environmental issues, from beach cleanups and environmental regulation to public art. VCS has long wanted to support those students’ ongoing education. That’s why VCS is so deeply grateful to Jennifer (Treasurer and former President of VCS) and Jonathan Blum for proposing and funding this new opportunity. The Blums’ love for the outdoors, commitment to the Island, and concern for the protection of the environment inspired the scholarship.
“We are honored by the Blums initiating this partnership to provide scholarship assistance to graduates. Whether they return to the Vineyard for a career in conservation or find their place in another part of the world, these young adults will be making a vital impact on the future of our planet and we are thrilled to help make that possible.”
– Samantha Look, VCS Director
For more info, as well as other college funding opportunities, please see the MVRHS scholarship page HERE or the MVPCS scholarship page HERE.