Boomer Esiason Foundation Academic Scholarships
Scholarship Sponsored by Boomer Esiason Foundation
Description
The Boomer Esiason Foundation (BEF) Academic Scholarship reduces the financial barriers for students living with cystic fibrosis so they can pursue higher education. The program recognizes academic achievement, leadership, and resilience while offering designated distinctions that can provide additional financial support. Applicants are evaluated on character, community involvement, and demonstrated need in addition to academic records.
Key takeaways
- Focused on students living with cystic fibrosis.
- Rewards academic achievement, leadership, and resilience.
- Designated distinctions can qualify applicants for extra assistance.
- Need, character, and community service are part of the evaluation.
Scholarship Designations
Applicants may elect to respond to one long-form essay prompt tied to a specific designation; completing that essay automatically qualifies them for consideration for the related distinction. Each designation honors an individual or theme and targets distinct qualities or interests—such as advocacy, academics in health-related fields, community leadership, or athletic commitment. Selection for a designation can result in additional funding beyond the base scholarship.
Key takeaways
- One long-form essay can qualify an applicant for a specific distinction.
- Distinctions recognize different personal qualities and pursuits.
- Designation selection may increase award funding.
- Applicants should choose the designation that best matches their story and goals.
Bonnie Strangio Memorial Scholarship (bold)
This designation recognizes applicants who embody Bonnie Strangio’s upbeat, family-centered, and determined spirit. Ideal candidates approach life with enthusiasm, prioritize relationships, and pursue goals passionately despite the challenges of CF.
- Emphasizes positivity, family/friendship values, and persistence.
- Awards applicants who demonstrate joyful resilience.
Rosemary Quigley Memorial Scholarship (bold)
This distinction honors students who refuse to let CF limit their potential and who demonstrate a particular interest in medicine, health policy, or law. Candidates typically show strong academic focus and a commitment to fields related to Rosemary’s interests.
- Targets academic interest in medicine, health policy, or law.
- Rewards intellectual curiosity and professional drive in health-related fields.
Jerry Cahill “You Cannot Fail” Distinction (bold)
This designation celebrates students on a journey of self-discovery who share their experiences to inspire others. Ideal recipients embrace challenges, reflect on personal growth, and use their story to encourage community and resilience.
- Values self-discovery, storytelling, and inspirational leadership.
- Honors applicants who turn challenges into community impact.
Lea Faraone Memorial Scholarship (bold)
This award recognizes students who live boldly and advocate for the CF community, reflecting Lea Faraone’s passion for travel and CF advocacy. Recipients demonstrate a strong commitment to community engagement and a fearless approach to life.
- Highlights advocacy, community involvement, and adventurous spirit.
- Suited for candidates active in CF outreach or support efforts.
Tiffany Rich Memorial Scholarship (bold)
Awarded in memory of Tiffany Rich, this distinction celebrates students who create welcoming, supportive spaces and uplift others through kindness and connection. Applicants are encouraged to honor Tiffany’s legacy of friendship and gratitude as part of their application practice.
- Emphasizes kindness, encouragement, and community-building.
- Encourages applicants to reflect on gratitude and interpersonal support.
Team Boomer Distinction (bold)
This distinction recognizes students who incorporate physical fitness and athletics into their CF management and wellness routines. Candidates should demonstrate how sports or regular physical activity contribute to their health and quality of life.
- Focuses on fitness, athletics, and wellness as part of CF care.
- Rewards sustained commitment to physical well-being.
Exemplary Graduate Student Distinction (bold)
Designed for students with CF pursuing graduate-level study, this distinction honors well-rounded, driven applicants who are open about their CF experience. Ideal candidates combine academic excellence with engagement in their academic or CF communities.
- For graduate students demonstrating academic excellence and openness.
- Values leadership and engagement at the graduate level.
Eligibility
Eligibility is determined by medical diagnosis, citizenship or residency status, and enrollment in an approved academic program. Applicants must have a confirmed diagnosis of cystic fibrosis, be U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents, and be enrolled in or accepted to an undergraduate or graduate program. Selection also takes into account academic achievement, leadership, community service, and financial need.
Key takeaways
- Must have a confirmed cystic fibrosis diagnosis.
- Must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident.
- Must be enrolled in or accepted to undergraduate or graduate study.
- Selection also depends on achievement, leadership, service, and need.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit a complete application packet documenting medical status, academics, and financial information. Required materials include the completed scholarship application, a physician’s letter on official letterhead confirming CF diagnosis and treatment regimen, academic transcripts, and financial documents such as W-2s or tax returns. Incoming freshmen must also provide a detailed tuition breakdown from their institution.
Key takeaways
- Required: completed application, physician’s letter, and transcripts.
- Financial documentation (W-2 or tax return) is required.
- Incoming freshmen must submit a tuition breakdown.
- Incomplete packets risk disqualification.
Application Timeline
The BEF scholarship follows an annual cycle; applicants should consult the foundation for current deadlines and dates. After the application window closes, semi-finalists are contacted for a phone interview with a BEF Scholarship Committee member. Final decisions and award disbursements follow the interview stage, and timelines can vary year to year—plan ahead to assemble medical and financial documentation.
Key takeaways
- Annual application cycle—check BEF for current deadlines.
- Semi-finalists are invited to a phone interview.
- Plan ahead for document collection and timely submission.
- Final awards are announced after interviews; timelines vary.
Award Value
Award amounts vary by year and by designation; the base scholarship is supplemented when applicants qualify for distinctions. Exact scholarship amounts and the number of awards available change annually, and the BEF publishes current award information on its website or application materials. Applicants should verify current funding levels and any restrictions before applying.
Key takeaways
- Award amounts vary and may be increased by distinctions.
- Exact values and quantities change annually.
- Check BEF resources for current award figures and conditions.
- Distinctions can provide supplemental financial assistance.
History of the Award
The scholarship program is administered by the Boomer Esiason Foundation to honor and support students living with cystic fibrosis. Several memorial distinctions within the program commemorate members of the CF community and reflect their values—such as advocacy, mentorship, and personal courage. The program’s structure—core scholarships plus designation-based distinctions—was developed to both recognize academic achievement and honor individual legacies.
Key takeaways
- Administered by the Boomer Esiason Foundation to support students with CF.
- Memorial distinctions honor community members and their values.
- The program pairs core scholarships with designation-based supplemental awards.
- Designed to celebrate achievement while addressing financial need.
For the most current deadlines, award amounts, and submission instructions, consult the Boomer Esiason Foundation’s official scholarship page or contact the foundation directly.