Scholarships

Building Community

Helping a new generation find their purpose

We believe that building community means investing in people, especially those who are just beginning to shape their path forward. One of the ways we live that commitment is through our scholarship program.

For generations, granting scholarships has long been part of our mission at the local, state, and national levels. These scholarships reflect our enduring connection to Italian culture, heritage, and values. We also recognize that today’s students and career paths are more diverse than ever.

What's new this year

We are excited to introduce several meaningful updates:

Increased award amount: Each scholarship is now $1,500.
Expanded opportunity: Up to four scholarships may be awarded.
System-wide eligibility: Scholarships are no longer tied to individual schools.
Broader pathways recognized: Applicants may be enrolled in an accredited university, community college, or trade school.

These changes are designed to spark renewed interest and enthusiasm, while better reflecting the real educational and career journeys of today’s students.

Looking ahead

We are excited to introduce several meaningful updates. As with all of our initiatives, this program will continue to evolve. We remain committed to making thoughtful improvements in the future, as approved by our membership. While we hope to automate the scholarship process fully, that transition is not here just yet.

Your voice matters to us. We welcome feedback, ideas, and thoughtful suggestions as we continue strengthening this program and supporting the next generation.

Education & Training Year 2026-2027

GENERAL GUIDELIINES & DEADLINE

Applications must be received by May 1, 2026. Late applications will not be considered.

Completing the Application: The application may be typed or handwritten. Handwritten responses must be completed in ink and be legible. Do not leave any items blank.
Transcript: Include a current high school transcript showing your class rank.
Letters of Recommendation: Submit one or two signed letters of recommendation. Letters may not be from relatives; they may be from high school staff/faculty, community leaders, clergy, employers, volunteer/community service coordinators, coaches, etc.
Proof of College Application: You must have applied to an accredited university, community college, or technical/trade program that you plan to attend.
Incomplete Applications: Applications that do not follow these instructions will not be considered.
Submission Options: Send by email to: edfischer280@gmail.com with the subject line “Scholarship Application”. Or send a hardcopy by mail to: Scholarship Committee, OSDIA Napa Lodge #2043, 220 Ashlar Dr, Napa, CA 94558

ELIGIBILITY

Applicants must be graduating high school seniors enrolled in an accredited academic program within the Napa Valley Unified School District boundaries.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Academic Achievement: The committee will consider each applicant’s academic performance and scholastic accomplishments.
Extracurricular & Community Service: The extent to which an applicant has contributed to their school and/or community will be considered in the overall evaluation.
Connection to Italian Culture: Consideration will be given to applicants of Italian ancestry or heritage, as well as those who demonstrate a meaningful connection to Italian culture through learning, study, travel, or community involvement.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS: Please submit the following:

Completed Scholarship Application
High School Transcript
One or Two Letters of Recommendation
Personal Statement (minimum 300 words) addressing the following: a) Your connection to Italian culture and community, b) Your educational journey, including the influence of past experiences and your future goals, and c) Barriers or challenges you have faced in pursuing your educational goals (financial, language, cultural, or other obstacles)

PROOF OF ENROLLMENT: If selected to receive an OSDIA Napa Lodge #2043 Scholarship, you must provide proof of enrollment before funds are distributed. Proof of enrollment must be submitted no later than September 1, 2026. Scholarships will be forfeited if proof of enrollment is not received by this deadline.

Getting started

Scholarship applications are available below in multiple formats for your convenience:

Word: Ideal for those who prefer to type directly into the form using Word or a compatible word processor.
PDF: Recommended for applicants who may not have access to Word. This version can be printed and filled out by hand.
Fillable PDF: Designed for electronic completion on a laptop or PC. Mobile devices may require the form to be downloaded first before allowing access to fill out. You can type directly into the fields and save your progress before submitting.
Online Google Form: An online, step-by-step version of the application that can be completed and submitted electronically, and no printing is required.