GVHF Scholarship Program | Gunnison Valley Health

Purpose

The Gunnison Valley Health Foundation (GVHF) Scholarship Program is to support high school graduates from Gunnison County pursuing a career in healthcare. The scholarship aims to encourage local students to enter healthcare professions and, ideally, serve our community.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered:

Be a graduating senior from a high school in the Gunnison Watershed School District.
Be accepted or enrolled in an accredited college, university, or vocational program.
Intend to pursue a degree or certification in a healthcare-related field (e.g., nursing, medicine, physical therapy, radiologic technology, medical assisting, etc.).
Demonstrate academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to community service.
Submit a completed online application and letter of interest by the stated deadline.

Scholarship Amount & Disbursement

Scholarship amounts will vary annually based on available funding and the number of qualified applicants.
Disbursement will be issued directly to the college or university upon verification of enrollment.
Funds may be used for tuition, books, fees, and other academic-related expenses.

Application Process

Application Period:

Opens: February 1
Deadline: March 15

Required Materials:

Letter of interest
Personal statement (500-750 words) describing interest in healthcare, career goals, and community impact
Current High school transcript
Two letters of recommendation (one from a teacher and one from a community member)
Proof of college acceptance or enrollment (at time of payment))

Selection Process

A Scholarship Review Committee appointed by the GVHF Board of Directors will review all applications. Committee recommendations will be reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors.
Applications will be evaluated based on academic performance, personal statement, community involvement, and alignment with healthcare career goals.
Finalists may be invited for an interview.
Recipients will be notified by April 15.

Award Requirements

Recipients must provide proof of enrollment before disbursement.
Annual updates on progress and career path can be made online and are required by the end of the calendar year for one-time awards.
Recipients may be asked to participate in publicity or recognition events.

Renewal and Reapplication

The GVHF Scholarship is a one-time award. However, recipients may reapply in subsequent years and will be considered alongside new applicants, subject to availability of funds.

Policy Oversight

The GVHF Board of Directors reserves the right to revise this policy and associated procedures annually.
The GVHF Executive Director will ensure compliance with the policy and facilitate the selection process.