How Scholarship Winners are Selected

The Board of the Bernie Scholarship Program advertises the scholarship availability through staff at the County's high schools, the Housing Opportunities Commission, Scotland Community, and Edgewood Management.

Applications are screened by three members of the Board of Directors. Finalists are interviewed by the full board. In making its decisions, the board gives consideration to the personal interview, recommendations, school and employment records, community service, and need.

Awards are generally $1,000-$1,5000.

The Board wants to know: Will the Bernie Scholarship make a difference?

Here's an example: A single mom was struggling with a low paying job and trying to pay for a course at Montgomery College. Her employer said, "If you get a grade of B or higher, we will reimburse you for the class." The Bernie Scholarship Fund paid for the first class. This single mom earned her A and B grades and is continuing her education and earning higher salary!