Elizabeth Tilley Howland Scholarship 2026

A $3000 educational scholarship will be awarded this year to a student entering his or her 1st through 6th year (through Master's degree) of post-high school education at an accredited college, university or trade school. The student must be a member of or directly related (child or grandchild) to an active member of the Society of Mayflower Descendants in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.  The scholarship award, which is to be used only for education-related needs, will be paid to the educational institution. 

To be considered for this scholarship, the applicant must provide the following:

1. The applicant must completely fill out the application form and provide the required documents. The application can be found below.
2. Verification of acceptance by an accredited college, university, or trade program.
3. The decision of the judges is final.

Essay Rules and Guidelines

1. A minimum 750-word essay on the topic “How do the values of the Mayflower Pilgrims relate to your 21^st century life and plans?”
2. Essays must be postmarked by July 1, 2026. Essays will be judged on the following criteria: adherence to the topic, historical accuracy, reasoning, correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation. Plagiarism of any kind will result in disqualification.
3. The essay of the winning applicant becomes the property of the SMDPA and may be published in the Society's newsletter. An applicant's entry with supporting documents must be mailed to the Education/Scholarship Chair at the address listed on the application.