Boomer Esiason Foundation Academic Scholarships

Scholarship Sponsored by Boomer Esiason Foundation

Overview
The Boomer Esiason Foundation Academic Scholarship exists to reduce the financial barriers that students with cystic fibrosis (CF) face so they can concentrate on school and reach their goals. Each year BEF awards scholarships to students who show academic promise along with resilience, determination, and strong character. Some applicants may qualify for additional financial support through special scholarship distinctions.

How to apply for a distinction
When you apply, you may choose to submit a long-form essay answering a question tied to one of the scholarship distinctions below. Submitting that essay automatically makes you eligible for extra consideration under that particular designation. The essay is optional but encouraged if one of the distinctions fits your story.

Scholarship distinctions (choose one essay topic to qualify)
- Bonnie Strangio Memorial Scholarship
- For a student who captures Bonnie’s upbeat, can-do spirit: enthusiastic, family- and friendship-oriented, and pursuing goals with passion despite living with CF.

- Rosemary Quigley Memorial Scholarship
- For a student who refuses to let CF limit their academic ambitions, especially those interested in medicine, health policy, or law—fields Rosemary cared about.

- Jerry Cahill “You Cannot Fail” Distinction
- For a student on a journey of self-discovery who uses their experience to inspire others and who celebrates the individuality of their life path.

- Lea Faraone Memorial Scholarship
- For a student who lives boldly and passionately, demonstrates a strong commitment to the CF community, and reflects Lea’s love of travel and advocacy.

- Tiffany Rich Memorial Scholarship
- For a student who builds and sustains friendships, creates inclusive and joyful spaces, and lifts others through kindness and encouragement. (In Tiffany’s spirit, applicants are encouraged to call or text a friend and share appreciation before submitting their application.)

- Team Boomer Distinction
- For a student who places value on physical fitness and participates in athletics as part of CF management and overall wellness.

- Exemplary Graduate Student Distinction
- For students with CF pursuing graduate study—well-rounded, academically driven, and open about living with CF.

Eligibility (who can apply)
Applicants must:
- Have a confirmed diagnosis of cystic fibrosis.
- Be a U.S. citizen or a U.S. lawful permanent resident.
- Be enrolled in, or accepted to, an undergraduate or graduate program.
- Demonstrate academic achievement, strong character, leadership, community service, and financial need.

Application requirements (documents you must submit)
To be considered, include all of the following:
- Completed scholarship application.
- Letter from a physician on official letterhead confirming CF diagnosis and outlining current therapy regimen.
- Academic transcript(s) — high school, college, or graduate school as applicable.
- Detailed tuition breakdown from your school (required only for incoming freshmen).
- W-2 forms for both parents, or a tax return if self-employed.

Selection process
Semi-finalists will be contacted for a phone interview with a member of the BEF Scholarship Committee.

A note from a teacher
When you prepare your essay and application, be specific and honest. Use examples that show how you handle challenges, what motivates you, and how CF has shaped your goals—not just the presence of the condition itself. If a distinction speaks to your experience, take the opportunity to address that prompt; it can open the door to additional funding. Good luck.