2025 Scholarship Application

Since its founding on December 4, 1906, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. has supplied voice and vision to the struggle of African-Americans and people of color around the world. Alpha Phi Alpha, the first intercollegiate Greek-letter fraternity established for African-Americans, was founded at Cornell University in Ithaca, New York by seven college men. Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Rho Iota Lambda Chapter was chartered on May 9, 2001 in Chesterfield County, Virginia. Brothers of the Rho Iota Lambda Chapter are active members of the Chesterfield County community. Many of our brothers preside on several boards and committees throughout the Richmond Metropolitan Area. For more information, please visit: https://rhoiotalambda.org/. 

The 423 Fund is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization based in Chesterfield County, Virginia, dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and adolescent youth in the metro Richmond communities. At The 423 Fund, our mission is clear: to enhance the quality of childhood experiences through charitable and educational initiatives. Since our inception in 2018, The 423 Fund has successfully raised over $50,000, while simultaneously addressing crucial issues related to youth development and student achievement. This incredible milestone is a testament to the generosity and support of individuals like you who believe in the power of community and education. Visit our website https://www.423fund.org to learn more about our ongoing projects, upcoming events, and ways you can contribute to our cause.

Dear Scholarship Applicant,

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Rho Iota Lambda Chapter and The 423 Fund are excited to provide two one- time scholarships two eligible students in the amount of $1,500 in their noble pursuit of higher education. Scholarship funds will be awarded upon evidence of matriculation in an accredited technical, vocational, two-year, or four-year institution and will be paid directly to the institution's bursar office or the department that manages financial accounts.

Below, you will find information regarding the criteria and eligibility, submission requirements, and deadlines for our 2025 scholarships.

Criteria & Eligibility

1. Applicants must be a graduating high school senior attending Chesterfield County Public Schools or a resident of Chesterfield County in the year of the award, with the exception of undergraduate applicants of The Sphinx Award;
2. Applicants must meet all of the criteria for the award in which they are applying;
3. Applicant must possess at least a 2.5 grade point average;
4. Applicants must demonstrate community involvement, academic excellence, and plan to attend a technical, vocational, two-year, or four-year institution; and
5. Applicants may not be related or a dependent of any board member or staff of the 423 Fund.

Application Submission Requirements

Application packets must include the following in order to be considered:

1. Completed and typed application;
2. Two (2) letters of recommendation from a teacher, administrator, counselor, or an individual with significant knowledge of the applicant's experience and involvement; 
3. A resume outlining employment, extracurricular activities, honors, awards, and/or community service;
4. An official and recent transcript with your cumulative grade point average. Transcripts can be unsealed and uploaded with your application; and
5. A personal essay of no more than 500 words, double-spaced  and 12 point Times New Roman. Please review your essay before submission. 
6. Please save each application submission requirement as *submissionrequirementFirstnameLastinitial Example: (ReccomendationJohnW/ResumeJohnW)

You have two options for submitting requirements:

1. Upload the attachment to this online application.
2. Send via email to info@423fund.org or education@rhoiotalambda.org 

Application Deadline

The deadline for scholarship applications is June 15th, 2025 by 11:59 PM, no exceptions. Applicants will be notified by July 5th, 2025. Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Please do not hesitate to provide correspondence if you have any questions, concerns, or need additional information at education@rhoiotalambda.org or info@423fund.org. We look forward to reading your outstanding materials and we wish you the best as you pursue higher education.

 

Best Regards,

 

Marquis W

Director of Educational Affairs

2025 Scholarship Committee

 

423 Fund Board of Executives

2025 Scholarship Committee

The Sphinx Award

Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. develops leaders, promotes brotherhood and academic excellence, while providing service and advocacy for our communities. This award will be granted to a current undergraduate student or the dependent of an active and financial member (provide Alpha ID #) who has exemplified exceptional leadership abilities, academic excellence, and a demonstrated track record of community service.

The President and Chairman's Scholastic Achievement Award

The President and Chairman's Scholastic Achievement Award is a prestigious scholarship recognizing outstanding academic excellence, leadership qualities, and a committment to intellectual growth. This award will be granted to  applicants pursuing a career in public service, the nonprofit sector, social justice oriented work, science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or education.

 

To the Sphinx award applicants, please answer the following question in no more than 500 words:

The mission statement of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. is "Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., develops leaders, promotes brotherhood and academic excellence, while providing service and advocacy for our communities. Describe a time when you took initiative to create a meaningful impact in your school, workplace, or community. How did you demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and service in this experience? What challenges did you face, how did you overcome them, and what key lessons did you learn that will shape your future?

To the President and Chairman's Scholastic Achievement award applicants, please answer the following question in no more than 500 words:

"More than a century of academic excellence has paved the way for future leaders and scholars. As a high-achieving student, you are part of this legacy. What do you see as a significant challenge facing your school, family, or community today, and how has your commitment to scholastic achievement prepared you to address this issue? Reflect on how your academic dedication, intellectual curiosity, and pursuit of excellence have shaped your educational and career aspirations in response to this challenge."

I hereby affirm that all the above stated information provided by me is true and correct to the best of my knowledge. I also consent that my picture may be taken and used for any purpose deemed necessary to promote the scholarship program.

I hereby understand that if chosen as a scholarship recipient, I must provide evidence of enrollment/registration at the post-secondary institution of my choice before scholarship funds can be awarded.