Established in 2016, the John Cary Scholarship, presented by Emerson, honors John Cary’s unwavering dedication to helping students with disabilities overcome challenges and achieve their aspirations. This prestigious scholarship provides financial support to graduating students served by the Special School District (SSD) who embody the qualities Cary valued most: resiliency, courage, and determination.

Eligibility Criteria

The John Cary Scholarship, presented by Emerson, is open to SSD graduating students who plan to pursue higher education at a four-year college, university, or trade school. Applicants will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Personal Characteristics: Displaying resiliency, courage, and determination-traits exemplified by the late John Cary.
• Academic Achievement: Demonstrating success in academics alongside leadership and community volunteer activities.
• Extracurricular Excellence: Participation in athletics, the arts, or other areas of notable accomplishment.
• Overcoming Obstacles: Highlighting a strong ability to overcome challenges or adversity.
• Financial Need: Consideration of the applicant’s financial situation.
• Teacher Nominations: Insights from educators about the student’s strengths, character, and potential.

2024 scholarship recipient Constance Anthony shares this update:

“College so far this year has been great! I completed the fall semester with all A's and a 3.9 GPA. I also became more involved in the STL fashion scene by volunteering for STL Black Fashion Week, the Mother Model Tribute Show, and Neiman Marcus' 50th Anniversary Fashion Show.

I'm looking forward to the spring semester and taking a Principles of Marketing class to start working on my minor in Marketing. I am also set to launch a website for my small business soon which I have wanted to do for a while now. I am applying for scholarships for next year and looking into possibly transferring schools to see if I can obtain a bigger scholarship, but overall college has been good for me.

I want to thank you all again for awarding me the John Cary Scholarship as it allowed me to not have to come out of pocket for my Freshman year last year.”

The selection committee seeks well-rounded individuals who excel in various aspects of life and exemplify determination and hard work. Exceptional achievement in a particular area, coupled with a history of resilience and community involvement, will significantly influence the decision-making process.

How to Apply:

Applications for the 2025-2026 John Cary Scholarship, presented by Emerson, are now available and will be accepted through January 24, 2025. Scholarship funds are dedicated to covering tuition costs, providing essential support to students as they embark on their next chapter of personal and academic growth.

If you or someone you know meets the eligibility criteria, we strongly encourage you to apply. This is an incredible opportunity to honor John Cary’s legacy by empowering students to achieve their dreams and make a lasting impact in their communities.

Let’s celebrate the spirit of resiliency and determination by supporting the next generation of inspiring leaders. Apply today and be part of this transformative journey!