Martha’s Vineyard Community Foundation Announces $400,000 in Scholarships Awarded in the 2026 Annual Scholarship Cycle

We are proud to announce an historic level of annual scholarship funding to support local students: we are awarding $400,000 to 135 talented Islanders so that they can pursue their educational and life goals.

Executive Director Paul Schulz notes that, “This year we’re seeing real pressure on families from rising tuition and costs. These scholarships help ease that burden so students can stay focused on building their futures.”

We are committed to supporting Island students through every step of their academic paths. That encompasses graduating high school seniors, current college students, graduate students, individuals returning to college after a gap, and those seeking professional development or workforce certification. We saw a significant increase in applications from people pursuing certificates or returning to school after time taken to work, clarify goals, or raise families. 

Current college students make up the majority of this year’s award winners: 64 of the 135 recipients (47%) are studying for their undergraduate degrees. We are excited to celebrate the local high school graduates at their upcoming ceremonies: 38 of this year’s graduating class from Martha’s Vineyard Regional High School and 5 graduating seniors at the Martha’s Vineyard Public Charter School are receiving MVCF scholarships. The range of awardees also includes graduate students, non-traditional or returning students, and students pursuing trades certificates. 

This year’s awardees hold diverse interests and aspirations in fields such as environmental science and policy, building trades, business administration and financial services, mental health counseling, education, medicine, law enforcement, and more. We are excited to follow their careers and personal development. 

The Board, staff, and our external review committees congratulate all of the scholarship winners!