Making Education Accessible, Affordable and Transformative

Since its beginning in 2001, the Legacy Scholars program has provided scholarship support, awards and leadership development to over 300 students. Today, the program provides merit-based renewable scholarships and other awards ranging from $7,000 to $10,000 annually, as well as leadership development opportunities to full-time undergraduate students pursuing a full-time education at any of the 17 colleges or universities that are officially historically or presently affiliated with the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).

As part of the Legacy Foundation’s mission to develop leaders who will transform the world, the Legacy Scholars program focuses not just on scholarship but on leadership development and growth that impacts campuses and communities for the better. This occurs primarily through the Annual Leadership Conference, Cohort Groups and the Volunteer Leadership Projects.

Program Eligibility

College or University Choice

Applicants should be planning to attend or already be attending a college/university that is currently or historically related to the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) as listed on our website.

College Attendance

Applicants must apply as students who, in 2026-2027, will be incoming first-year college students (freshmen) or sophomores and who plan to attend full-time for at least the next three academic years, graduating in December 2028, May 2029 or later.

Merit-Based & Wholistic

Scholarships are holistic and merit-based, with a 3.0 GPA minimum. A strong academic record is important, along with one’s essay, resume and recommendations. Since the mission of the Foundation is to develop leaders who will transform the world, applicants should also show a desire to learn, be challenged, and make a positive impact on their campuses or communities.

Leadership Program

Applicants must be able and willing to participate fully in the Legacy Scholar Program leadership & service components, including but not limited to the Annual Leadership Development Conference and the Volunteer Leadership Project. Please note the annual leadership conference normally occurs from Thursday through Sunday, usually in mid-October.