A. Patrick Charnon Scholarship

The A. Patrick Charnon Memorial Scholarship helps students afford high quality undergraduate education in their chosen fields of study.

Introducing Pat Charnon
Pat Charnon was an inspiration to many young people in Beloit, Wisconsin, until his untimely death from cancer in 1987. He had a quick mind and sharp wit, but his compassion, tolerance and generosity defined him better. Pat opened his home to college students and other young people, offering room and board for help with renovations, housework and cooking. He took in summer interns, recent graduates, and others just looking to find their ways. In Pat’s house you were a member of a special community, where you were supported, challenged, and – above all else – respected.

The Generosity Continues
… With the memory of his remarkable generosity and his strong commitment to education, the friends and family of Pat Charnon have joined The Center for Education Solutions to establish the A. Patrick Charnon Memorial Scholarship. Each year since 1992, The Center has awarded $1,500 scholarships to full-time undergraduate students who have demonstrated their commitments to building communities. Since its inception, the Charnon Scholarship program has attracted over 1,000 applicants from all over the United States – as well as from foreign students attending college in the United States. Most fundraising has come from individuals, with a smattering of support from matching gift programs as well.

Become Part of the Program
Maybe someone like Pat Charnon has touched your life -- someone you would like to honor in a unique and rewarding way. Consider a scholarship or special program, and then contact The Center for Education Solutions – we will help you design a lasting tribute. Or you may contribute to the Charnon Scholarship.

Who are the Charnon Scholars?
Past recipients include: Carmen Henke from Iowa, who returned to college so she could teach children with special needs in her rural community. Kara Clayton, born in Korea and adopted by a Wisconsin family, who is helping recent immigrants learn English. Vanessa Duckett from Washington, D.C., who plans to return to the inner city to open shelters and youth centers.

About the Charnon Scholarship Amount
Each scholarship will be for $1,500 per academic year, prorated and awarded at the beginning of each academic term (for example, semester or quarter). Recipients may re-apply each year for up to four years, provided they continue to meet the requirements of the award.

Requirements
Recipients must be admitted or enrolled in a full-time undergraduate program of study in an accredited four-year college or university in the United States. They must maintain good academic standing and make progress toward a degree. The Charnon Scholarship Review Committee will decide whether applicants fulfill the requirements of the award. The selection committee looks for candidates who value tolerance, compassion and respect for all people in their communities, and who have demonstrated their commitments to these values by their actions.

Our Successes
For each of the past eleven years, the A. Patrick Charnon Memorial Scholarship has recognized the contributions of undergraduate students. As befits the ideals of the person it honors, Charnon scholarship recipients are a diverse group of people with exceptional dedication and commitment to their communities. Read some of the stories Charnon scholars have shared with us.

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