ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIP

Richard O. Jacobson (ROJ) Traditional Scholarship Program

Since 2013, CFY has awarded more than $2.45 million in scholarships through the Richard O. Jacobson Education Program, helping students pursue their dreams of higher education. Named in honor of Mr. Richard O. Jacobson, whose dedication to CFY and unwavering commitment to supporting area youth helped shape the organization’s growth and impact, this program continues his legacy of investing in the future of young people.

The ROJ Traditional Scholarship Program connects generous community sponsors with aspiring Pinellas County high school seniors as they pursue postsecondary opportunities at colleges and universities nationwide. (Please note: St. Petersburg College and vocational/trade schools are not included in this program, as separate scholarship opportunities are available for those pathways.)

The annual application period runs from November 15 – January 20. Eligible students are encouraged to apply and take the next step toward achieving their educational goals.

Who is eligible to apply for a scholarship?

Eligible applicants include any high school senior attending a public or private high school in Pinellas County.

Students planning to enroll at St. Petersburg College or a vocational/trade school are not eligible for the ROJ Traditional Scholarship Program. Instead, these students are encouraged to apply for the CFY/SPC Scholarship Program or the CFY Vocational/Trade Scholarship Program sponsored by Duke Energy, which are specifically designed to support students pursuing these educational pathways.

How do I apply for a ROJ Traditional Scholarship?

Applications must be completed online through the CFY website by selecting the ROJ Traditional Scholarship Program section of the application.

If an applicant does not have access to a computer or requires special accommodations to complete the application, a student representative or counselor should contact the CFY office for assistance.

The application includes required essay questions. Applicants must complete all required sections, including essays when prompted, in order to be considered for the scholarship.

Who makes the decision on the applications?

Applications are submitted to the CFY Scholarship Committee for a blind review process (all identifying information about the student and family removed.) Upon review of the completed application and essay, top applicants are determined by the committee and assigned to sponsors.

Will I be notified if I do not receive a scholarship?

Yes, all applicants will receive decision communication.

Why do I need to write a thank you letter to my sponsor for the ROJ Education Program?

Unlike other CFY fundraising/impact efforts, sponsors of the ROJ Traditional Scholarship Program has chosen to make a donation that will directly impact an individual student, rather than a broader community impact. It is important to thank them for their support and the impact it will make and is making on your educational journey.

How much money is awarded?

Scholarships are awarded to cover the cost of tuition (30 credit per year), books, room, and board only in increments of $5,000 and $10,000. Scholarships are payable over the first two years of schooling provided the applicant has met all criteria for first- and second-year funding.

How do I receive funds?

Scholarship funds are issued directly to the recipient’s postsecondary institution using the information provided on the Scholarship Disbursement Form, distributed upon award and due no later than June 30th. Scholarships are then paid out in 2 increments in July prior to the start of the student’s first two years, each 50% of the total award.

What can the funds be used for?

Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, books, room, and board only. It is the students responsibility to work with the school to apply funds appropriately. Failure to do so may result in withholding of future funds. Any unused funds are to be returned to CFY.

What will happen if I change schools between semesters?

To avoid forfeited scholarship funds, a written (email) submission showing withdrawal and indicating the new school must be sent to scholarships@cfypinellas.org. The student is responsible for requesting a refund from the current school, payable to CFY. Once the unused portion of the scholarship is received, we will redistribute the funds along with any additional remaining funds (if applicable) following the timeline described above/on the updated Scholarship Disbursement Form (July distribution toward fall semester).

What if my school says they did not receive the funds?

Please allow anywhere from 2-6 weeks from the check date for processing. Checks are issued using the information provided exactly as it is on the Scholarship Disbursement Form, so it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure correct school and personnel detail. If the school still states that the funds have not been received beyond a reasonable time frame, please email scholarships@cfypinellas.org with your name, the name of the school, and your student ID. We will respond via email with your check number
and date to be provided to the financial aid office for research.

Official transcript showing full time status and grade point average
A thank you letter to the donor including an update on what the first year experience has meant to your development
Fall course schedule

ADDITIONAL SUPPORT

Need-Based Qualification

Applicants may choose to apply for the Need-Based Qualification to be considered for additional support. While not required, completing this section in your application is encouraged, as qualifying students will receive an automatic point toward their overall selection score.

Eligibility is determined based on Income Eligibility Guidelines and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
Need-based applicants will be verified through school administration and the Florida Department of Children and Families.