SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS
Awarded in memory of Elizabeth Testa
 

Elizabeth Testa was one of three daughters born to James and Katherine Tucker in Oakland, California. She received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from Cornell University and a Masters in Fine Arts and Writing from Vermont College of Arts. Throughout her life, Elizabeth held various positions, including Construction Project Manager, Independent Consultant, Publicity and Editorial Director, and Executive Director. She was passionate about supporting students, particularly those facing life’s hardships, and served as the Executive Director of the Durango Education Foundation from 2009 until her passing in 2017.
 

Award Amount: $3,000 non-renewable to the student’s choice of school, inclusive of a Trade School/Vocational School, 4-year Bachelor programs, and 2-year Associate programs 
Selection: Recipients will be selected by the DEF Scholarship Committee, in conjunction with representatives of the Durango School District 9-R Board of Education.
 

ELIGIBILITY AND REQUIREMENTS
Eligible applicants will be:

• Graduating from Durango High School or Big Picture High School at the end of the current academic year

• Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.0

• Planning to enroll full-time in a career or technical Associate’s certificate or degree program at an accredited community college or college/university in the fall directly after graduation

EVALUATION CRITERIA

This scholarship is awarded to a student who demonstrates determination, resilience, and the drive to pursue education despite personal hardships. Students will be evaluated on:

• Individual determination to succeed

• Future goals and plans to achieve them

• Ability to communicate the hardships you have overcome or currently face

• Self-motivation in completing your education
   

INDIVIDUAL SCHOLARSHIP REQUIREMENTS

1. A COMPLETE APPLICATION

2. Academic Transcript: 2.0 minimum GPA

   • ​A complete senior transcript showing sustained GPA may be required before the award is remitted to the student’s choice of college.

3. One Letter of Recommendation from a teacher, supervisor, coach/activity sponsor, or counselor

4. Statement of Financial Need

   • Please share anything about your family financial situation and/or your financial situation that will help us understand your need for college scholarship assistance. (approximately 250 words)

5. #1 College and Career Essay:

   • What are your education and career goals? What makes you passionate about this future path? What have you done so far to pursue these future goals? What will you be doing 1 and 5 years after college graduation? (600 words maximum)

6. #2 Obstacles Essay:

   • What challenge, big or small, are you proud to have persevered through, and what challenges, as you enter college, do you still have ahead of you? (300 words maximum)