Southtowne College Scholarships

More than 20 years ago, members of Southtowne Rotary Club recognized a growing need for scholarship support for underserved high school students. Many of these students faced economic hardship and significant life challenges. Although they had the desire and determination to pursue higher education, they often did not have the top-grade point averages required for traditional scholarships, placing college further out of reach.

To help address this need, the club established the Southtowne Rotary Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to receiving donations and grants, managing scholarship funds, and providing financial assistance to underserved students pursuing post-secondary education.

Over the years, the Foundation has awarded more than $200,000 in scholarships. These awards do far more than help cover the cost of tuition and school expenses. They provide encouragement, recognition, and confidence to students who have worked hard to overcome obstacles and build a better future for themselves.

Recipients of these scholarships have gone on to earn college degrees, begin meaningful careers, and positively impact their communities. Their resilience, determination, and work ethic reflect the kind of potential these scholarships are designed to support.

Today, we are working to expand the program so we can help even more students pursue their educational goals and realize their dreams for the future.

Southtowne Scholarships

How To Give

  • Mail a check to Southtowne Rotary Foundation at P.O. Box 5075, Eugene, OR 97405. Be sure to note that your gift is for the Scholarship Program.
  • Donate Online Below

Southtowne Opportunity Scholarships

The Southtowne Rotary Foundation also recognizes that adults returning to school or pursuing career advancement often face unique challenges. Many are balancing education with work, family responsibilities, and financial pressures while striving to build a more stable future.

Through the Southtowne Opportunity Scholarship (SOS) program, the Foundation provides support for adults pursuing vocational training, certifications, and higher education opportunities. Scholarship assistance has helped individuals attend beauty school, obtain licensing for skilled trades such as electrical work, continue education pathways from teacher’s aide to certified teacher, and complete certification programs in nursing and healthcare.

These scholarships are designed to remove barriers that might otherwise prevent motivated individuals from continuing their education or entering meaningful careers. By investing in adult learners, the Foundation helps strengthen not only individual futures, but the broader community as well.

Recipients of SOS scholarships have gone on to complete degrees, advance in healthcare and skilled trades, and begin careers that provide long-term stability for themselves and their families. As the need continues to grow, the Foundation remains committed to expanding opportunities for adults seeking education, career advancement, and a path toward a brighter future.

The Southtowne Rotary Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization and contributions are tax-deductible for income, gift, and estate taxes. Our EIN is 93-1204943.