Your Future Starts Here: 2026 Scholarship Applications Now Open
Washington County - For students across the Mid-Ohio Valley who are thinking about what comes next, Marietta Community Foundation’s 2026 scholarship applications have officially opened.
Each scholarship tells a story. Created by individuals, families, and organizations who care deeply about education and community, these 65+ donor-established funds exist to remove barriers, open doors, and encourage students to take confident steps toward their futures.
MCF’s scholarship program serves a wide range of students, including graduating seniors, current college students, nontraditional learners, and military-connected individuals. Opportunities extend across Washington County and neighboring communities, ensuring that students from many backgrounds and paths have access to support.
Behind every award is a process rooted in fairness, transparency, and trust. Applications are reviewed by dedicated volunteer committees and approved by the MCF Board of Directors. To ensure equity, all personal identifying information is removed before review — allowing students to be evaluated solely on their achievements, aspirations, and potential.
Applications must be submitted by Monday, March 16, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. Once received, applications move through a careful review process, with recipients notified ahead of Marietta Community Foundation’s Scholarship Awards Ceremony on Sunday, May 3rd, 2026.
This year’s application cycle also includes several new scholarship funds. Among them is the James R. Thrash Family Scholarship Fund, established by the Thrash family to honor the legacy of James R. Thrash — a longtime Marietta High School teacher, counselor, coach, and devoted community leader.
“This scholarship is our way of investing in the next generation of Marietta students,” said Joel Thrash. “We want to support graduates who demonstrate pride in their school, give back to the Marietta community, and work hard academically — students who are motivated to learn, serve, and lead, just as James R. Thrash did throughout his life as an educator, coach, and community servant.”
“Our scholarship program reflects how philanthropy works best — thoughtfully, intentionally, and with long-term impact,” said Britani Merritt, Vice President of Donor and Program Services. “From guiding donors through the creation of scholarship funds to stewarding those resources and awarding them to students, we are able to connect generosity with opportunity in a way that is both personal and transformative. We encourage all eligible students to apply.”
Students, families, and guidance counselors can explore eligibility requirements and begin the application process at mcfohio.org/scholarships.
Marietta Community Foundation is committed to strengthening Washington County, believing that a united community holds unlimited potential. With over $34M in grants and scholarships and more than $60M in assets across nearly 400 funds, the Foundation empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations across Washington County to drive transformative, lasting impact. Learn more at www.mcfohio.org.
