Monsignor Philip Kenney Scholarship

Monsignor Philip Kenney was born in Concord, N.H. He has served as a Catholic priest in this state for more than six decades. He has consistently fought for the rights of the underprivileged. He marched for civil rights for black Americans in the 1960s, fought for equal rights for women, worked to help those victimized in the El Salvador civil war, and demonstrated against American violence in Vietnam. In 1986, Msgr. Kenney used his receipt of Manchester’s Citizen of the Year Award as a springboard to establish this scholarship fund to benefit Hispanic and other ethnic minority students in New Hampshire. Since 1986, $170,000 has been awarded to 150 students.
 
When to apply?
Applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on April 15, 2013.
 
Who should apply?
The Kenney Fund seeks to support a diverse minority population — but the first preference is for Hispanic youth. Both traditional college age students and adult students may apply. Students may be planning to attend a local community college or vocational/technical school, be enrolling in a four-year degree program or even studying part-time. Students must be in a degree program or in a recognized certification program. Graduate students are not eligible.
 
Selection criteria
The selection committee will review the applicant’s financial need and merit factors such as academic work, involvement in school or community activities, and work experience.
 
Determining financial need
Candidates are required to submit a copy of the Student Aid Report (SAR) that is the result of filling out the Free Federal Form (FAFSA), which determines what a particular family can reasonably afford for education or the expected family contribution. In addition, finalists will be asked to supply a copy of the financial aid package offered by the institution to be attended.
 
Award availability
This is a competitive program. Typically, out of 90 applications, less than 10 awards may be made. Awards range in size between $500 and $2,500 depending on a student’s individual circumstances. Although Kenney awards are not automatically renewable, the selection committee encourages students to reapply. As long as you are a New Hampshire resident enrolled in school, you may continue to apply for assistance.
 
Award decisions
The selection committee will invite eight to 10 applicants for personal interviews in May. All applicants will be notified of the committee’s decisions by the end of May.
 
Questions?
Please contact the Student Aid Office at 1-800-464-6641.

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