Jim Claxton Memorial Scholarship

The Jim Claxton Scholarship Fund was initiated in 2011 in order to honor Jim and his contributions to the Mid-Atlantic turfgras industry, while financially supporting students in pursuit of a college degree.

 Jim worked as a salesman for Newsom Seed from the early 1990s until shortly before his passing in 2013. He made great contributions to turfgrass-related businesses during this period, especially busineses directly involved in turf production.

The Jim Claxton Scholarship fund allows for up to $1,500 to be issued to winning applicant(s) prior to the Fall college semester. Previous winners of the Jim Claxton Scholarship may re-apply, so long as the applicant still fulfills the eligibility requirements. Preference may be given to students enrolled in a turfgrass-related field or with experience in turfgrass production.

• Applicant must be a current high school senior, or enrolled in a two or four-year college or university program (undergraduates only). Proof of enrollment may be requested by the Scholarship Committee after application submittal.
• Applicant must reside in the Mid-Atlantic area or be enrolled in a college or university in the Mid-Atlantic area. Further preference may be awarded to students residing or attending school in Maryland or one of its adjoining states.
• Applicant must have earned a high school or college GPA of at least 2.50
• The application and all of its required parts (see below) must be received by midnight EST 5/31/26.

1. General Application (Contact Info, School Info, etc.)
2. Resume
3. One-Page Essay (Prompt is outlined below)
4. Transcript (Unofficial is acceptable)
5. One Letter of Recommendation
6. Headshot & Short Bio (These will be used for a press release if you are selected as the winner)