Michael Wassmer Foundation Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Michael Wassmer Foundation

If you’re a hardworking student who’s faced obstacles and kept pushing toward your goals, this scholarship might be for you. The Michael Wassmer Foundation awards multiple need-based scholarships of $30,000 each to outstanding seniors in the Richmond area. Each scholarship is paid directly to the recipient’s college in four annual installments.

Timeline
- January 15, 2026 — Applications open
- March 15, 2026 — Applications due (revised)
- April 15, 2026 — Recipients notified

Who should apply
- Students graduating from high school in spring 2026 who plan to start full-time at an accredited four‑year U.S. college in fall 2026.
- Students who meet the financial-need criteria below and who see themselves reflected in Mike Wassmer’s story of perseverance and service.

Eligibility (required)
- Residence: City of Richmond or one of these counties — Chesterfield, Hanover, Henrico, or Goochland.
- Graduation: High school senior, spring 2026.
- GPA: Cumulative unweighted GPA of 3.5 or higher.
- Financial need: FAFSA or VASA submitted for the upcoming year with a Student Aid Index (SAI) of 25,000 or less.
- College plans: Intend to enroll full-time at an accredited four-year U.S. college beginning fall 2026.

Application — what you’ll be asked to provide
- High school transcript
- Financial information (FAFSA/VASA/SAI documentation)
- At least one recommendation
- Record of employment, community service, extracurricular activities, awards and honors
- Short written essays
- Video submission

Selection priorities
Wassmer Scholars are chosen not just for grades, but for qualities Mike valued: resilience, integrity, compassion and determination. The Foundation seeks students who have worked hard, overcome challenges, and shown a commitment to their community.

About the Michael Wassmer Foundation
The Foundation was created in September 2022 after Mike’s passing from an undiagnosed heart condition. Mike was a devoted husband, father, son, brother, friend and community leader. His family established the Foundation to continue his philanthropic legacy in Virginia by supporting need-based scholarships for deserving high school seniors in the Richmond area.

A few practical tips (from a teacher)
- Start your application early so you have time for thoughtful essays and a strong video.
- Ask recommenders well before the deadline and give them specific examples you’d like them to mention.
- Use the video to show your personality and explain how you’ve handled challenges — clarity and authenticity matter more than production value.

If this describes you, please apply — the Foundation wants to invest in students who are prepared, determined, and ready to make a positive impact.