Scott L. Ray was a lifelong research scientist and statistician. He served on the University High School Board of Trustees for 12 years and is the father of alumni Abby (’07) and Jim (’10). Scott was a champion of education from a young age, particularly in science and mathematics. He relished educating others almost as much as he enjoyed the subjects themselves, and he was known to be a kind and encouraging mentor. Scott met people where they were and gave them the confidence to grow as students and human beings. This scholarship will honor students who value the subjects of science and mathematics as well as the teaching of them, just as Scott did.
Primary Criteria:
This scholarship is awarded annually to a University High School senior who, like Scott, has a love and aptitude for science, math, and educating others in science and math. The awardee does not necessarily have to plan to pursue a degree in science, math, or education.
Award:
A $10,000 award, to be used toward education expenses, is presented at University High School’s Prize Day ceremony.
Selection Process:
University High School seniors are eligible to apply for the scholarship. UHS faculty then nominate two to three candidates, based on each student’s demonstrated interest in science and math. The Ray family and UHS faculty meet to select the awardee.
Requirements:
- Be a member of the Science National Honor Society (*see reference list below)
- Possess interest in science or mathematics as demonstrated by academic and extracurricular focus
- Be projected to graduate in good standing and attend an institute of higher education
- Have no significant discipline issues
- Submit an application in the form of a one-page essay as detailed below
Essay:
Write a one-page essay answering one of the following prompts:
- How has science or mathematics inspired you?
- How have you shared your knowledge of science or mathematics with others?
Timeline:
- May 4, 2022: Applications due to Stacey Summitt-Mann
- May 27, 2022: Awardee is announced at Prize Day Ceremony
Criteria for Induction to SNHS (*for reference)
- Must be a junior or senior in high school (only seniors may apply for the Scott L. Ray Memorial Excellence in Science and Mathematics Scholarship)
- Must have at least a 3.5 cumulative GPA (junior) or 3.0 cumulative GPA (senior)
- Must be enrolled in at least two semesters of upper level science classes during the junior and senior year, including at least one AP level course
- Must maintain a B+ (3.3) average in all science courses
- Must participate in 4 hours of science department sponsored activities each year
- Must maintain behavior that is acceptable to the guidelines of this institution