January 20, 2026

To Whom It May Concern:

The Greater Rappahannock (VA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated was founded to enrich, sustain, and ensure the culture and economic survival of African Americans and persons of African ancestry within our community.

 The Greater Rappahannock (VA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated is pleased to announce its 2026 scholarship program.  Scholarships will be awarded to outstanding African American students in our service area. The Sandra Holland King Education Scholarship will be presented to a student majoring in the field of education, and an additional scholarship will be awarded to a student attending a Historically Black College or University (HBCU).

Enclosed please find a copy of the scholarship application form and requirements. We ask that you copy and distribute this information to those students who meet our eligibility guidelines.

All applications must be postmarked by March 20, 2026. If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to reach out to Dr. Pamela Gardner, the Scholarship Chairperson, at pdgardneraka41@gmail.com. We encourage all eligible candidates to apply early to ensure their materials are received on time. This scholarship represents a valuable opportunity to support your educational goals, so don't hesitate to seek assistance if needed.

Sincerely,

Dr. Pamela Gardner

Scholarship Chairperson

 

The Greater Rappahannock (VA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated Scholarships are awarded annually to students graduating from an accredited high school within the organization’s service area who meet specific academic and other eligibility requirements and plan to attend an accredited two- or four-year college on a full-time basis. These one-time scholarships will be paid to the college and applied towards tuition, books, or other academic supplies.

Eligibility Criteria

The applicant must be an African American candidate for graduation from an accredited high school within the service areas of the Greater Rappahannock (VA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. Our service areas include: The City of Fredericksburg and counties of Spotsylvania, Stafford, Caroline, and King George.

• The applicant must plan to attend an accredited two or four-year college.
• Applicants must have a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 or better on a weighted 4.0 scale.

In addition to the completed form, applicants must submit the following:

• Applicants must submit an original completed package.
• An official copy of your transcript from your School Counseling Office.
• The applicant must submit three letters of recommendation: two from a school counselor, teacher, or administrator, and one from a community member who can attest to your abilities and character.
• Attach a recent photo of yourself to the application.
• A one-page double-spaced essay of 750 words or less on one of the following topics:
  • If you could change one thing in your community or the world, what would it be and why?
  • What is the most critical, moral, ethical, or social problem facing America?

Sandra Holland King Education Scholarship

• Applicants must submit an original completed package.
• An official copy of your transcript from your School Counseling Office.
• The applicant must submit three letters of recommendation: two from a school counselor, teacher, or administrator, and one from a community member who can attest to your abilities and character.
• Attach a recent photo of yourself to the application.
• The applicant must be majoring in the field of education.
• A one-page double-spaced essay of 750 words on “How will you use your education to make a positive impact on your community?”

Historically Black College or University Scholarship

• Applicants must submit an original completed package.

• An official copy of your transcript from your School Counseling Office.

• The applicant must submit three letters of recommendation: two from a school counselor, teacher, or administrator, and one from a community member who can attest to your abilities and character.

• Attach a recent photo of yourself to the application.

• The applicant must apply and plan to attend an Historically Black College or University (HBCU).

• A one-page double-spaced essay of 750 words on "What are the benefits of attending a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), considering aspects such as academic support, cultural identity, community engagement, and career opportunities, and how these factors contribute to the overall student experience."

• All finalists must participate in an interview.
• Applicants will be rated on their involvement in extra-curricular activities, academic achievement, their essay, and interview.
• GRVA will host a reception to honor recipients. Information on the reception will be forwarded to scholarship recipients and their families.
• A scholarship presentation will be made at our scholarship reception and at your local high school Awards Night.
• Applications and supporting materials must be received by March 27, 2026.
• Finalists will be notified via e-mail. Type or print your e-mail address legibly.
• Questions may be directed to Dr. Pamela Gardner at pdgardneraka41@gmail.com

Academic Scholarship Application

Please complete ALL sections. The information provided is confidential.

Please note the following:

• The Scholarship check will be sent to the college or university to be applied directly to the recipient's account. If selected, you must provide a copy of the acceptance letter and the name and address of the college or university to which the check will be mailed.
• Selected winners agree to the use of their name, photo and select information contained in their application packet for advertising and promotional purposes for the Greater Rappahannock (VA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated without further compensation, liability or notification.

 The information on this form and contained in the application packet is true and correct to the best of my knowledge as evidenced by signatures to this form.