Missouri State University and Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri will collaborate to make postsecondary education more accessible.  

Through a new scholarship, troop members can receive financial support for college. 

The new Missouri State University/Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri freshman scholarship is an annual renewable award of $2,000. 

“Missouri State University and Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri are united in our commitment to empower young women through education. With this scholarship, we’re not just funding their education; we’re investing in their future, their families and the communities they’ll impact,” said Dr. Ryan Reed, Missouri State’s director of access and success programs.

Scholarship is part of larger vision

The Girl Scouts organization will “provide promising students from under-resourced backgrounds with the academic enrichment, social supports and life skills needed to succeed in college and careers,” according to the memorandum of understanding signed April 3.

Missouri State President Clif Smart said the partnership between the university and scouting organization supports the university’s public affairs mission. 

“We share a mission to help all students be successful in life. We believe access to a college education is part of what makes that possible,” Smart said. 

Scholarship qualifications

This scholarship would apply after the MoState Access Award for Pell-eligible students.  

To qualify for the scholarship, students: 

• Must be active members of Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri for at least one year and during their senior year of high school. 
• Are in good standing and nominated by a troop leader. 
• Have not received another Missouri State scholarship of equal or greater value. 

Nominees also must meet Missouri State’s admission standards and enroll as a full-time student the same year they complete high school.