Reading Rotary offers “Service Above Self” Scholarship for high school seniors
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Last year’s Reading Rotary Service Above Self Scholarship recipients, recognized for their leadership, volunteerism, and commitment to serving others in the community. Photo from the Reading Rotary site.
High school seniors are invited to apply for the Reading Rotary Service Above Self Scholarship, which recognizes students who have demonstrated a strong commitment to leadership, volunteerism, and community service.
Recognizing service and leadership
The scholarship reflects Rotary’s core motto - Service Above Self - and will be awarded to students who have shown meaningful dedication to improving the lives of others.
Applicants will be evaluated based on:
Leadership and volunteerism in school or the broader community
A consistent commitment to helping others
Awareness of and action toward humanitarian needs
Dedication to continuing service into college and beyond
Interest in Interact or Rotary programs during high school
Rather than focusing on academic metrics like GPA, the application emphasizes real-world impact and service experiences.
Scholarship details
Each selected recipient may receive up to $1,000, and the total number of awards and final amounts will be determined by the Reading Rotary Club.
The program is designed not only to support students financially, but also to encourage an ongoing connection to Rotary and community service.
Application requirements
Students must complete an application and submit an essay describing how they have demonstrated Service Above Self in their lives. The essays should highlight service experiences and align with the scholarship’s stated values.
Applicants can download the application and submit materials electronically by emailing Reading Rotary at ReadingMaRotary@gmail.com. Completed applications must be received by Monday, April 27, 2026, to be considered.
Expectations for recipients
Students selected for the scholarship will be expected to remain engaged with Rotary and community service. Expectations include:
Attending a future Reading Rotary meeting to share college experiences
Participating in a scholarship award event (if available)
Completing at least one service project through Rotary or their college community
Being available for public relations opportunities
Maintaining full-time enrollment in post-secondary education
Scholarship funds will be distributed upon receipt of proof of enrollment at a higher education institution.
Encouraging lifelong service
The Reading Rotary Club hopes the scholarship will inspire recipients to carry forward a lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and community engagement.
Students interested in applying are encouraged to complete and submit their applications before the April 27 deadline.
