Click here to download a list of our Current Active Scholarships

For a donation of $1,000 or more, we can create a named scholarship for you.  Please contact us at canton@dollarsforscholars.org to set this up.  Application can be downloaded here.

2025 Scholarships

Annmarie Haendiges Memorial Scholarship

Annmarie Haendiges was a vivacious source of boundless energy for fashion, merchandising, mentoring, fundraising and volunteering.
She engendered the best in people, pushing them to stretch and grow and pursue their passions, and bringing them together.

This scholarship in her memory is given regardless of academic standing, financial need, or area of concentration of study.
The ideal candidate is a Canton student or resident planning to further their education, and who is "All-In" as exhibited by the following traits:
• Passion, commitment, and intensity of focus in everything they do.
• An abiding connection to others through a strong sense of community, volunteerism, selflessness, or helping them elevate themselves, especially when they need it most.
• A sense of style, flair, fashion or creativity that expresses appreciation for the variety and vibrancy that constitute life.
• Determination and a fighting spirit that never gives up, and a sense of humor, especially under adversity.
• An intrinsic desire to do the right things, because they are right, rather than to attain recognition or appreciation.

Beverly Kibbe Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is given in memory of Beverly Kibbe who taught Kindergarten at Cherry Brook Primary School for 31 years. Mrs. Kibbe had a passion for literacy and early childhood education and was also dedicated to bettering and serving her community. The memorial scholarship recipient will honor Mrs. Kibbe's spirit by being hardworking, but not afraid to exhibit a playful spirit. In addition, the recipient must demonstrate kindness, possess a giving nature, and have dedicated themselves to the community through volunteerism. The awarded student must be a Canton High School graduating senior pursuing a career that will strengthen their community, for example (but not limited to); education, social work, health and human services.

Brian C. Carucci Memorial Scholarship

Brian Carucci, a longtime Canton resident, was a devoted father, husband and active community member. He passed away suddenly in November 2022 at the age of 55. A skilled carpenter and furniture maker, he dedicated much of his time to supporting local schools, coaching cheerleading and capturing memories through his passion for photography. His altruistic contributions included volunteering for the Girl Scouts, photographing community events and assisting others without seeking recognition.

A scholarship in his honor will be awarded to a Canton High School senior who demonstrates strong character, academic achievement, community service and a willingness to help others selflessly. The recipient must also show financial need and be accepted to a college or technical school.

Caitlin Homan Memorial Scholarship

This award is given in memory of Caitlin Homan, a graduate of Canton High School. Caitie had a love for animals and the outdoors and was active in school activities. The recipient of this scholarship shall be a student enrolling in a four-year college or university, pursuing a field of study related to Wildlife Management, Environmental Science, Marine Biology, Veterinary Studies, Zoology, or similar science.

Canton Dollars for Scholars General Scholarship

This scholarship is presented to Canton residents graduating from high school who plan to continue their education at vocational or technical schools and other specialized training programs, as well as students enrolling at traditional two- or four-year colleges or universities. Awards are made based on academic performance, school and community activities and leadership qualities, as well as high ethical standards. The number of scholarships will vary depending upon community contributions. Please note: All applicants must be in good academic and civic standing at the time the awards are given.

Canton Land Conservation Trust Scholarship

This memorial scholarship is given in honor of Dr. Frederick Feibel, DVM and his wife, Miller. Dr. Feibel, a local veterinarian, who lived in Canton with his family for many years. He has served as a Director of the Canton Land Conservation Trust ever since he was appointed to the Board in 1976, where he advocated for the preservation of land. Dr. Feibel was a man of integrity who demonstrated ethics, compassion, and respect for all things living. This scholarship shall be given to a Canton resident graduating senior who demonstrates these traits and who is interested in volunteerism and community involvement. Further, this scholarship may be used for academic support of a student in pursuit of veterinary medicine, horticulture, ecology, land conservation/forestry, animal life science, environmental sciences or any hands-on job which would support these categories, including occupational training or certification.

Canton Youth Services Bureau Scholarship

The successful candidate will have demonstrated a willingness to give back to the community, have been an active voice for prevention of drug and alcohol abuse and/or other social service issues, and will attend an institution of higher learning, either at a community college or four-year institution.

Casey LeGeyt Memorial Scholarship

It is with honor that the Casey LeGeyt Memorial Scholarship be given to a Canton graduating senior. We are proud to present this scholarship and give back to a member of the community just as the community so generously gave their support and love to Casey and her family. This graduating senior exemplifies many of the qualities that Casey herself possessed, such as genuine compassion for others, love for her community, and desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

Catherine & Frank Scheckton Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to the graduate who has actively participated in high school activities such as clubs, student government, drama and/or sports.  The student should be planning to attend a two- or four-year college or university and have exhibited a high level of character and integrity.  This award will be based on merit and financial need will be considered.

Cawasa Grange Memorial Scholarship

The Cawasa Grange Memorial Scholarship will be awarded to a student who has been accepted into an accredited college or university. The participant must have obtained a B average for the last four marking periods. The recipient must have participated in community service. Financial need will be considered.

Cherry Brook Garden Club Scholarship

The Cherry Brook Garden Club Scholarship is given to a high school senior who is a Canton resident or is attending Canton High School and plans to pursue a career in any of the following areas:  environmental science, botanical science, plant biology, agronomics, horticulture, forestry, conservation, ecology, organic farming, and the like. The award is to be based on the candidate's commitment to pursue further education, enrolling in an accredited two or four-year college or university, or pursuing entrepreneurship in the above fields. Please note: All applicants must be in good academic and civic standing at the time this award is given.

Cheryl Scott Music or Performing Arts Scholarship

This scholarship is given in honor of Cheryl Scott who excelled in a career of entertainment management and was an active participant in theater productions at CCSU and for many years with Canton Benefit Productions. She also enjoyed working with school children doing classroom presentations at Cherry Brook and CIS for a number of years. Eligible students are Canton High students enrolled in a 4-year college to pursue further education in music or arts studies.

Chief Roy Brucker Scholarship

Given in memory of Chief Brucker, the Collinsville Volunteer Fire Department Inc. and the Canton Memorial Ambulance award a scholarship to a CHS senior who will graduate in the top half of his/her class and demonstrates a commitment to community leadership, be of high moral character, and intend to pursue his/her education.

Collinsville Volunteer Fire Department Chief Mickey Barlow Memorial Scholarship

Awarded in memory of former Chief Mickey Barlow, the Collinsville Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. awards a scholarship to a CHS senior who displays great exuberance and enthusiasm for Canton as well as community service. The candidate must be thoughtful, kind, and have volunteered in the Canton community during high school. Candidates must possess a strong belief of giving back to their community and have plans to pursue a career in a public service field.

Danila Thank You Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to four graduating students who plan on pursuing their higher education at one of Connecticut's State or Community Colleges. As a former student of Canton High School, Mr. Danila would like to give back to the community and support students who plan on attending one of our State's higher education establishments. The students should be in good academic and civic standing at the time the award is given and financial need will be considered.

The Erika J. Hayes Scholarship

This scholarship will be awarded to a Canton High School graduating senior who is planning to attend a four-year college or university in either the United States or another country, outside of New England, New York, New Jersey or Pennsylvania. The recipient shall have a GPA of 3.5 or more, value adventure, travel and learning about other parts of the country/world and different cultures.

Geraldine Smith Memorial Scholarship

This award is presented to a Canton resident who is pursuing a career in one of the various fields of education such as Speech Pathology, Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Special Education, etc. The applicant must be pursuing a career working with children from grades PreK-6. This recipient must show dedication, concern and zeal for providing the best education to our youth. Please note: All applicants must be in good academic and civic standing at the time the awards are given.

Gordon Keller Memorial Scholarship

This Scholarship is given in honor of Gordon Keller. Gordon was passionate about sports, learning and life. He played sports from a young age including youth soccer, tennis, and crew in college. He was also a Boy Scout and was actively involved in the high school band and his church youth group as well as holding a job. Gordon's passion for living was wide ranging and included both sports skills and education. He always tried to help instill that passion in others, encouraging them to do their best and strive for excellence. As an Ironman competitor, a feat that requires both physical and mental strength, Gordon found a true challenge. He encouraged others to take up this challenge and would help teach, train, and prepare others for the races. He was always encouraging and delighted in the achievements of those he helped teach and train. His greatest joy lay in encouraging others to reach their goals and he inspired all of those who knew him. This scholarship will be given to a high school senior who is a Canton resident or is attending Canton High School to give back to the community that has provided such loving support and generosity to Gordon and his family. The recipient will be someone who embodies the highest ideals of volunteerism, character, sportsmanship, integrity, and a commitment to excellence. In addition, the student shall have an excellent academic record and plan to attend a four-year college or university.

Hannah Walsh Tomolonius Scholarship

This scholarship is for the student who most represents the qualities Hannah possessed: an interest in and love of the arts and design (including, but not limited to fashion, makeup, hairstyling, drawing, painting, writing, photography, etc.), a genuine interest in all people, and a love of animals. This award is given without regard to the student's academic performance; instead, it should be directed to a student who embodies Hannah's free-spirited nature and who is pursuing or interested in pursuing a career in the arts, design, or fashion.

Joshua Powell Memorial Scholarship

Josh Powell was a 2018 graduate of Canton High School. He was inspiring and generous, and never knew a stranger. Regardless of who you were, he would always ask how you were doing with sincere concern. He was kind to everyone, especially to those who felt like they didn't fit in or felt excluded in some way. Josh set high goals for himself and worked hard to achieve them, overcoming serious challenges along the way.

This scholarship in Josh's honor is given to a graduating Canton senior who most exemplifies these same qualities: kindness, concern for others, strong work ethic, and ability to overcome long odds or serious challenges. The recipient of this scholarship should have plans to move forward with their education in some way, whether through college, a trade school, training, or apprenticeship.

Kevin D. Case Scholarship

This scholarship is given to a student who plans to pursue an education in any field of education.  The recipient may be male or female and attend any level of college and plans on receiving a two or four-year degree.

Kindness Matters Scholarship

This scholarship is given to a high school senior who is a Canton resident or is attending Canton High School. This scholarship is to be given to a student who shows behavior consistent with helping and caring for others and/or the environment. The recipient must be able to give examples of how they have a pattern of kind and compassionate behavior in the community by activity such as mentoring, volunteering, peer support, care for the elderly, or involvement in environmental causes.

Lions Club of Canton Scholarship

Awarded to a boy and a girl of the graduating class who has displayed and demonstrated active participation in service to our community and has maintained high ethical standards and a good academic standing. The candidates shall have given good and effective participation in community service activities such as fraternal, religious, or service organizations. The candidates shall have maintained a good academic standing and have been selected to a college, trade, or occupational school. The candidates shall be of good moral character and be a current member of the Leo club.

Mary Ellen Cosker Memorial Scholarship

This award is presented in memory of Mary Ellen Cosker, a much respected and beloved member of the Canton/Collinsville Community who epitomized the values of integrity, hard work and compassion with humility, a sense of humor and determined spirit - no matter what challenges she faced. In granting this award, particular consideration is given to individuals who exemplify these same qualities in their own lives.  It is intended for a graduating Canton High School senior who plans on pursuing higher education in the field of health care. Candidates specifically focused on a path of nursing will be given priority consideration. This recipient will be of high moral character, have demonstrated exemplary citizenship and have shown compassion and commitment to the community through volunteer work and/or extracurricular activities. Candidates who are first generation college students, whose parents/guardians serve in the U.S. Military or are Veterans and/or candidates with demonstrated financial need will be given priority consideration for this award.

Maureen Edlund Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is given in honor of Maureen Edlund, a longtime Canton resident and avid supporter of higher education. The recipient of this award shall be a Canton resident with a strong academic record who is enrolling in a four-year college or university. In addition, this student shall exemplify two of Mrs. Edlund's defining attributes: steadfast character and integrity in all situations, and a deep respect for family and community, as reflected in the student's strong history of service to others.

Nancy M. Petry, Ph.D. Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship is given in honor of Dr. Nancy Petry, a Canton resident and professor of medicine at the University of Connecticut School of Medicine from 1996 to 2018. Nancy was a renowned research psychologist who supported higher education in the sciences. The recipient of this award shall be a Canton resident with a strong academic record planning to enroll in a four-year college or university with a focus in science, math or psychology.

North Canton Volunteer Fire Association Scholarship

This scholarship is offered to a student who is interested in going into the field of public service, including, but not limited to teaching, healthcare, police, firefighter or another public servant field or program.

Rae B. Smith Cawasa Grange Scholarship

Presented to a member of the graduating class who plans to continue their education. The award is made based on active good citizenship in the school and community, scholastic promise, and potential for humanitarian service.

Rotary Club of Avon-Canton Scholarship

This award is presented to two Canton High School students who have displayed a pattern of service to their fellow students and community. Please note: All applicants must be in good academic and civic standing at the time the awards are given.

Rotary Club of Avon-Canton Technical/Vocational Scholarship

This scholarship is presented to a Canton resident who will pursue a technical or vocational career. Please note: All applicants must be in good academic and civic standing at the time the awards are given.

Russell J. Richardson, Incorporated Scholarship

This scholarship is given in memory of Russell John Richardson IV and is presented to a graduating student who attends Canton High school and plans on attending a trade school.

Stepping Stones Education Center Scholarship

This scholarship is presented to a deserving Canton resident who is entering the field of education relating to young children in grades K-6. Please note: All applicants must be in good academic and civic standing at the time the awards are given.

The Dr. Diters Scholarship

In 1989, the community gathered to celebrate Dr. Edward Nelson Diters on the occasion of his retirement, after over 40 years of dedicated service as Canton's family doctor. In his honor, the community generously donated the initial funding to create the Dr. Diters Legacy Scholarship.
Dr. Diters defined a life well lived: WWII Veteran and Air Force Flight Surgeon in Korea. State of Connecticut Assistant Medical Examiner. Canton's beloved family, community and school physician. He knew that there were a lot of wonderful people in the world and felt lucky because he knew them all.

Today, Canton Community Health Fund, Inc. (CCHF), continues to honor the work and devotion to community that defined Dr. Diters by providing Scholarships to graduating high school students pursuing a future in healthcare or public service/safety fields, through further education, training or certification, and who have demonstrated commitment to community service.

The Joseph Family/ShopRite of Canton Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating Canton resident who plans to continue their education at a vocational or technical school or other specialized training program, as well as students enrolling at a traditional 2 or 4-year college. Recipient must be a current ShopRite associate.