Quality education is expensive. It’s no secret that tackling the financial commitment of college is daunting for most students and parents.
But our foundation believes in the power of education and the difference it can make. That’s why we created a scholarship program to support students pursuing careers that make a positive impact—especially in the lives of individuals with physical disabilities.
The Evin B. Hartsell Endowed Memorial Scholarship is more than just financial support. It helps students stay committed to the path they’ve chosen to help others without being held back by cost.
Carrying Evin’s Mission Forward
Evin B. Hartsell lived with muscular dystrophy and spent his life helping others see the value in every person. He believed his disability gave him a unique perspective, and he used that perspective to encourage understanding and compassion.
He wrote “Abled in a Disabled World”, mentored students, and contributed to curriculum efforts at schools like Notre Dame and Saint Leo. His life and work inspired many people to think more openly about disability and the importance of inclusion.
In his memory, this scholarship offers support to students who want to use their education to help others and create positive change.
Who It’s For
The Evin B. Hartsell Endowed Memorial Scholarship is awarded to both undergraduate and graduate students at two respected Florida institutions: the University of South Florida and Saint Leo University. These are schools that share our belief in education as a force for good, and that nurture future professionals in fields that matter deeply to the disability community.
The scholarship is open to full-time and part-time students pursuing degrees in:
- Social Work
- Psychology
- Sociology
- Counseling
These disciplines were intentionally selected because they represent areas where students are being trained to provide support, advocacy, and long-term care—the kinds of work that can transform lives when done with knowledge and heart.
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for students who are committed, motivated, and eager to make a difference. While all eligible applicants at USF and Saint Leo are encouraged to apply, the foundation gives preference to a few key groups:
- Students living with a disability
- U.S. military veterans
- Students with a GPA of 3.0 or higher
This scholarship exists to open doors to education, to opportunity, and to careers that ripple outward in impact.
Why It Matters
Students who choose to study fields like social work, psychology, sociology, or counseling are often drawn to helping others. They care deeply. They show up for people during difficult moments. And they’re the kind of people who want to make a real difference, even if the work isn’t always easy.
For individuals with physical disabilities and their families, that kind of care can be life-changing. Whether it’s offering support, understanding, guidance, or advocacy, these students are preparing to walk alongside others in meaningful ways.
The Evin B. Hartsell Scholarship was created to support that kind of purpose. It’s here to help students stay on track—academically, emotionally, and financially—so they can keep moving forward and keep showing up for the people who need them most.
How to Apply
If you’re a student at USF or Saint Leo University, the first step is to contact your school’s financial aid office or scholarship coordinator to inquire about the Evin B. Hartsell Endowed Memorial Scholarship.
Each university manages its own application process, so they’ll be able to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information. Reaching out is all it takes to get started.
Want to Support the Mission?
Maybe you’re not a student, but you believe in the mission. You want to help fund education for students who will go on to change the world. That’s exactly what our donors make possible. Your gift can help expand the reach of the Evin B. Hartsell Scholarship, increase the number of recipients each year, and lighten the load for students who are working hard to help others. Whether you give once or monthly, every dollar makes a difference.
Make a donation today and invest in students who are committed to helping others.
Helping Students Who Help Others
Pursuing a career that helps others often comes with real financial challenges. That’s why the Evin B. Hartsell Scholarship was created—to offer meaningful support to students who care deeply, work hard, and want to use their education to make a difference in people’s lives, especially those living with physical disabilities.
If you’re a student at USF or Saint Leo University and you’re studying social work, psychology, sociology, or counseling, you may be eligible for this scholarship.
Contact your school’s financial aid office today to find out how to apply and take the next step toward funding your education.