Big dreams grow in small towns. At GVTC, we’ve always believed the future of our communities depends on the students who grow up here and go on to lead, serve, and succeed. That’s why The GVTC Foundation is awarding scholarships for 2026 to support graduating seniors in our service area as they pursue college, technical training, and career goals.
Scholarship Awards You Can Count On
For 2026, The GVTC Foundation has up to $50,000 in scholarships available to help local students pursue their next chapter in higher education. Scholarships include:
The Ritchie T. Sorrells Scholarship -$25,000 for a student who has demonstrated leadership, innovation, and community impact.
The Ola Armstrong Scholarship- $15,000 for a student with a proven record of volunteer service and community involvement.
The CTE Scholarship- $10,000 for a student pursuing a vocational or technical education path.
Applications opened January 7, 2026, and we encourage students and families to apply early.
Why Scholarships Matter More Than Ever
Let’s talk real numbers. College costs continue to rise, and many families are feeling the strain.
The average cost to attend a public four-year college, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is over $27,000 per year for in-state students and more than $37,000 for out-of-state students.
That means a typical four-year degree can cost well over $100,000 when you include tuition, housing, books, and daily living expenses.
At private universities, total costs can be even higher depending on the institution.
Scholarships like those from the GVTC Foundation aren’t just financial awards. They’re powerful tools that reduce student debt and make higher education more accessible.
Stories That Inspire
Each year, we celebrate the achievements of local seniors who have earned scholarships and are now pursuing college and career dreams. Their stories remind us why this work matters because every student with drive and passion deserves a chance to succeed.
Tips for Families and Students
Start early. Scholarship applications can take time, so gather transcripts, letters of recommendation, and essays well before the deadline.
Tell your story. Scholarship committees want to understand your goals, your impact, and how you’ve grown.
Explore all options. GVTC Foundation scholarships are a fantastic start, but there are many other local and national opportunities to pursue.
Apply Today and Make the Future Yours
Whether you’re a student planning your next steps or a parent helping guide that journey, now is the moment to act. The GVTC Foundation scholarships are designed for local students who lead, serve, and aspire for more, and we can’t wait to see what you achieve.
Applications close March 2, 2026. Learn more and apply at GVTC.com/Foundation/Impact/Scholarships.
