The GLBT Alumni Society has been dedicated to making studying at The Ohio State University a financial reality for more GLBT and students and their allies. Realizing that the financial demands placed on students and families because of the rising cost of higher education is often multiplied for GLBT students, fundraising efforts by the society has made these scholarships a reality. There is a hope that we can reach students who have been turned away by their family for “coming out” and help GLBT students address other financial issues that are unique to them.

Since 1997, the University has partnered with the Columbus Chapter of Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (PFLAG) in order to offer the Eric Kohring – PFLAG Scholarship. Various gifts from the community including a seed gift from the estate of Eric Kohring allowed the GLBT Alumni Society to both offer the scholarships through the years and to create the first endowed scholarship for GLBT students in the state of Ohio.

In 2002, a gift from the estate of Harold “Marc” McIntosh created another 5 endowed scholarships for GLBT students. This gift was among the first to dedicate scholarships targeted towards people living with HIV and AIDS and towards GLBT students who are new to the University.

In 2005, an additional scholarship, entitled the Mark Moffett, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, was added to recognize an outstanding music major in the GLBT community. Today, we offer a total of 7 scholarships worth $1,500 each.

As a University, Ohio State is dedicated to diversity. These scholarships become one more tool for the University to use to recruit a strong and diverse student body. The existence of these scholarships encourages students to choose Ohio State and makes it easier for more students to continue to pursue academic excellence at Ohio State.

I thank you for your interest in this scholarship program, and I look forward to receiving your application. Please be aware that everything must be submitted by February 29, 2008. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at (614) 292-2660 or email.

Best Wishes,

Charlie Runyan
Scholarship Chair