Empowering Future Leaders: VFW Scholarships and Awards

The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is committed to helping students achieve their dreams by providing scholarships and recognition programs that pave the way for educational success. These opportunities not only honor patriotism and leadership but also provide tangible support for students' advancement in their academic and professional journeys.

Through programs like the Voice of Democracy, Patriots Pen, and Scout of the Year, students can earn scholarships that reduce financial barriers to higher education. These awards help students focus on their studies, pursue their passions, and build brighter futures.

Whether it's the $35,000 scholarship awarded to the Voice of Democracy national winner or local prizes that encourage participation and achievement, every award is a step toward empowering the next generation of leaders, creators, and innovators.

With the help of the VFW, students turn their aspirations into reality, advancing their education while carrying the values of patriotism and civic responsibility into their community.

Voice of Democracy

High School students compete by submitting audio essays on patriotic themes. VFW Post 8790 awards the top entries with prizes and recognition, while the top local winner advances to the state and national levels for the chance to win scholarships up to $35,000.

2024 - 2025 Top Three Winners:

Tri Vu from Manchester, New Hampshire - $35,000 T.C. Selman Memorial Scholarship.
Caleb Smith from Annapolis, Maryland - $21,000 Charles Kuralt Scholarship.
Della Phillips from Fargo, North Dakota - $15,000 VFW Scholarship.

Patriots Pen

Middle School students write 300 to 400-word essays for this contest. VFW Post 8790 awards 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place prizes, and the top entries move forward for state and national judging, where scholarships and additional awards are granted.

2024 - 2025 Top Three Winners:

Evelyn Newbigging from Lancaster, South Carolina - $5,000 North End Post 144, Paul A. Spera Past Commander-in-Chief Award.
Laila Kamin from Auburn, Washington - $4,000 VFW Award.
Canaan Ly from Tempe, Arizona - $3,500 VFW Award.

Scout of the Year

Outstanding scouts are recognized at the local level for their exceptional citizenship, leadership, and patriotism. Local awards honor the scouts' achievements, and the top entries advance to earn national scholarships.

2024 - 2025 Winner: Cole Hofstad, an Eagle Scout.

Teacher of the year

VFW Post 8790 recognizes inspiring teachers who go above and beyond to educate students about the importance of democracy, citizenship, and veterans' contributions. Local winners may advance for recognition at higher levels.

2024 - 2025 Teachers of the Year Winners:

Tim Smiddy, a teacher at Staunton Elementary School in Staunton, Illinois.
Christie Wingo, a teacher at Colorado Springs Christian School in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
Nicole Petrosillo, a teacher at West Milford Township High School in West Milford, New Jersey.

Patriotic Art Contest

Students with artistic talent are awarded prizes at the local level for their creativity and patriotism.

2024 Top Three Winners:

Ana Bruck (10th Grade) - $15,000 Scholarship.
Ariel Chen (11th Grade) - $7,500 Scholarship.
Abigail Wuestefeld (12th Grade) - $3,500 Scholarship.

Why it Matters

At every level, from local VFW posts to national competitions, these programs foster patriotism, encourage leadership, and provide meaningful recognition. While national winners receive significant scholarships, local contests celebrate the talent, dedication, and hard work of participants in their communities with awards and prizes.

How to get started:

Contact your local VFW Post to learn more about program rules, eligibility, and deadlines.
Submit entries by October 31st for this year's contests and start your journey toward recognition and potential scholarships.

For more details, visit the VFW Youth and Education page or contact your local VFW Post directly.