Erie Colorado Rotary Scholarship Program

The Erie Colorado Rotary Club is proud to support the next generation of leaders through our annual Academic Scholarship Program. For many years, Erie Rotary has invested in local students who demonstrate academic achievement, character, and a strong commitment to serving others. Supporting youth is not just something we do — it is central to who we are.

As part of the global network of more than 1.2 million members in Rotary International, our club lives by the motto “Service Above Self.” We believe communities grow stronger when young people are encouraged to lead, serve, and think critically about the world around them. This scholarship reflects that belief.

Scholarship Overview

Erie Rotary allocates funds to this program every year. The number of scholarships and award amounts will be determined based on the strength and quality of applicants.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:
• Be an Erie resident graduating senior
• Plan to attend a university, college, or post-secondary institution
• Have a minimum 3.0 cumulative unweighted GPA
• Demonstrate meaningful service-based volunteering

While school activities are valued, the selection committee places special emphasis on service that extends beyond the classroom and into the broader community.

Application Materials

Students must submit:
• A resume including clubs, activities, and community involvement
• A 200–500 word essay responding to the scholarship prompt
• Optional letters of recommendation

Essay Prompt

Service clubs help make communities stronger and more connected, yet participation in service organizations has declined in recent years. Rotary clubs have experienced membership challenges over the past two decades.

Applicants are asked to reflect on why service clubs may be declining and what needs to happen for them to grow and thrive again — especially from the perspective of a young person today. Students are encouraged to consider leadership, relevance, innovation, and the idea of “tribes” in building engaged communities.

Our Commitment to Youth

Erie Rotary believes that service shapes character. Through programs like this scholarship, youth leadership initiatives, and local service partnerships, we are committed to encouraging young people to serve with integrity, compassion, and purpose.

Our members are guided by Rotary’s core values — service, friendship, diversity, integrity, and leadership — along with the Four-Way Test, which asks:

Is it the truth?
Is it fair to all concerned?
Will it build goodwill and better friendships?
Will it be beneficial to all concerned?

We look forward to learning from and supporting Erie’s outstanding students.

For questions, please contact the Erie Rotary Scholarship Coordinator using the form provided.