Investing in Student Success, Today and for Generations to Come
The Charter Oak State College Foundation helps students achieve their educational goals through scholarships, grants, and other financial assistance. Foundation-funded awards remove financial barriers, recognize achievement, and help students stay on track to complete their degrees.
Every Scholarship tells a story of generosity. Established by alumni, faculty, staff, community partners, and friends of the College, many of our scholarship funds are endowed, providing support for students year after year. Through these lasting investments, donors create opportunities that transform lives and strengthen Connecticut's workforce and communities. Together we are creating brighter futures, one degree at a time.
Create Your Legacy Through an Endowed Scholarship.
An endowed scholarship is one of the most meaningful ways to support Charter Oak students. Gifts to endowed funds are invested, generating annual scholarship awards while preserving the principal to provide support in perpetuity.
Whether honoring a loved one, celebrating a profession, supporting a field of study, or helping students overcome financial challenges, donors can create a lasting legacy that changes lives for generations.
Interested in establishing a scholarship fund or endowment? Contact the Charter Oak State College Foundation (foundation@charteroak.edu or call Carol, 860-515-3889) to learn how your generosity can make a lasting impact.
Updates
- The Charter Oak State College Foundation scholarships are available annually to eligible undergraduate and graduate students. Each spring, students are encouraged to visit myCharterOak to review available scholarship opportunities and complete the online scholarship application. Specific eligibility requirements, including program of study, GPA, leadership experience, or demonstrated financial need, are outlined within the application portal.
- Typically, the application is open April 1 to May 1 and awards are announced by July 30, for the fall semester. However, students should monitor their Charter Oak email and myCharterOak announcements for application opening and closing dates.
- The application, guidelines, and criteria are located on the myCharterOak >Student Self Serve > Scholarship. Students are encouraged to apply for any scholarships for which they are eligible.
- Award recipients will be notified through their Charter Oak email account, and scholarships will be reflected on their student account for the applicable semester(s).
Habits of the Mind Endowed Scholarship Established by Robert J. Addy
Established February 2026
The Charter Oak State College Foundation is honored to announce the establishment of the Habits of the Mind Endowed Scholarship, created through a generous $25,000 endowment gift from alumnus Robert J. Addy (Class of 1983), along with an additional contribution to support students immediately.
Ram Lal Seekri Endowed Scholarship
Established September 2025
The Charter Oak State College Foundation is pleased to announce the establishment of the Ram Lal Seekri Endowed Scholarship, created by Professor Raj P. Seekri and Mrs. Raj K. Seekri to honor the life, legacy, and values of Professor Seekri's father, Ram Lal Seekri.
Undergraduate
Beverly & Rodney Hawes, Jr. Scholarship
Current Students
This scholarship is available to a Charter Oak Student pursuing a business concentration who has demonstrated qualities of leadership and commitment to community and is considered to possess the potential to make positive contributions within a business environment. The scholarship can be used to cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, direct and indirect educational expenses. Learn More.
Community College Tuition Match Discount Program
Incoming Students
Are you a recent graduate of a CT State Community College?
Do you want to pursue your bachelor’s degree?
Do you need a cost-effective and efficient way to do it?
Our Community College Tuition Match Discount Program may be your answer!
Learn More.Dr. George G. Moker Endowed Scholarship
Current Students
The Dr. George G. Moker scholarship will give financial assistance to a current undergraduate Charter Oak student striving to complete their degree in Business Administration Bachelor’s degree, or a degree with a small business or entrepreneurial concentration.
Foundation General Scholarship
Current Students
The Foundation General Scholarship Award is for current Charter Oak undergraduate students who have demonstrated financial need, are in good standing with the College, and registered for the fall semester. Awards are applied to the student accounts to cover tuition, fees, books, or other direct or indirect educational expenses. If needed, Financial Aid will notify the student of any adjustments.
Habits of the Mind Endowed Scholarship Established by Robert J. Addy
The Charter Oak State College Foundation is honored to announce the establishment of the Habits of the Mind Endowed Scholarship, created through a generous $25,000 endowment gift from alumnus Robert J. Addy (Class of 1983), along with an additional contribution to support students immediately.
Inspired by Addy's belief that “learning is habitual,” the scholarship recognizes that education is a lifelong pursuit. The concept of habits of the mind reflects the ability to apply knowledge, experience, critical thinking, and continuous learning to achieve success in both professional and personal endeavors.
Addy’s distinguished career includes service in the U.S. Navy nuclear submarine program, leadership roles in the nuclear power industry, senior leadership with the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations (INPO), and later consulting work focused on organizational effectiveness across the utility sector.
The endowed scholarship supports undergraduate students who demonstrate academic achievement, financial need, and a clear vision for how they will apply their education to achieve meaningful career and life goals.
Addy also chose to recognize Charter Oak President Ed Klonoski through the initial scholarship award, honoring his longstanding commitment to expanding educational access for adult learners. Learn More
Harris-Weiner Family Scholarship
Current Students
This scholarship is open to students, who are employed, have demonstrated financial need, and who show academic promise. Preference for awarding will be given to individuals who are employed in or planning a career in: Education, Early Care and Education, Government, or Non-profit Organizations. The scholarship can be used to cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, direct and indirect educational expenses. Learn More.
John and Elizabeth Blennerhassett Scholarship
Current Students
This scholarship is open to working parents who show academic promise and financial need. The scholarship can be used to cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, direct and indirect educational expenses. Learn More.
Mark Carr Endowed Scholarship
Public Safety
The Mark Carr Scholarship Award honors the memory of Mark Carr who was the former Fire Chief of New Britain, CT. The scholarship is for full-time or part-time Charter Oak students who are currently participating in Public Safety Administration education or working in Public Safety seeking a degree with a minimum B grade. Learn More.
Michael A. Marusa Scholarship
Current Students
The Michael A. Marusa Scholarship was created to embody the spirit and honor the memory of Mike. He had a quick wit, keen business sense, and a genuine love of life; and his path to a college degree was a non-traditional one at the age of 47. The Scholarship is open to a Charter Oak student with a minimum GPA of 3.0, who is on a journey to degree completion and who exemplifies ambition and a desire for improvement for themselves, their family, and their community. The Scholarship can be used to cover the cost of tuition, fees, books, direct and indirect educational expenses. Learn More.
Naomi K. Cohen Public Service Scholarship
Current Students
Naomi K. Cohen is a 1995 Charter Oak State College graduate, and a retired member of the Board of Regents for Higher Education, she served as a tireless advocate for Connecticut students and families, and she championed stronger sexual assault policies on all college campuses. This Scholarship was created to honor her years of service
The Naomi K. Cohen Public Service Scholarship will be awarded to a Charter Oak State College student who has demonstrated financial need, is dedicated to public service, and is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Leadership or in General Studies with a concentration in Political Science or Public Administration or a master’s degree in Organizational Leadership.
R. Wayne Clugston Scholarship
Leadership
The R. Wayne Clugston created the Organizational Leadership Fund to provide undergraduate scholarships for individuals preparing for clearly defined leadership roles in service-based organizations. Preference will be given to individuals associated with smaller organizations that are providing quantifiable support toward individual leadership goals. Learn More.
Ram Lal Seekri Endowed Scholarship
The Charter Oak State College Foundation is pleased to announce the establishment of the Ram Lal Seekri Endowed Scholarship, created by Professor Raj P. Seekri and Mrs. Raj K. Seekri to honor the life, legacy, and values of Professor Seekri's father, Ram Lal Seekri.
Established with an initial gift of $10,000, the scholarship will support Charter Oak State College bachelor's degree students who demonstrate a commitment to service, generosity, educational achievement, and perseverance in overcoming personal and financial challenges.
The Seekri Endowed Scholarship was created as a tribute to a man whose life exemplified compassion, humility, wisdom, and dedication to others. Throughout his life in both India and the United States, Ram Lal Seekri was recognized as a respected community leader and counselor who generously gave his time, support, and guidance to those around him. He also held a profound belief in the power of education to transform lives and strengthen communities.
Professor Raj P. and Mrs. Raj K. Seekri shared that, in addition to providing financial assistance, they hope scholarship recipients will learn about Ram Lal Seekri's enduring legacy of service and respect for education. Their wish is that the values he embodied, generosity, service to others, and education for all, will continue through the students who receive this support. Learn More
Rebeka Scalia Leadership Scholarship
In honor of Rebeka Scalia, a distinguished alumna of Charter Oak State College and a dedicated member of the Foundation Board for many years, we present this award to recognize exceptional student leadership. Rebeka's unwavering commitment over two decades played a vital role in ensuring the Foundation's financial stability. Her generosity, time, and talents were instrumental in leading the Board into the new century, making her an inspiring figure within our community.
This award is designed for an incoming or current undergraduate or graduate student who not only demonstrates a strong dedication to their peers and community but also showcases outstanding leadership qualities and maintains a GPA of 2.8 or higher. In your essay, we invite you to share impactful leadership experiences you have undertaken, drawing from a wide range of activities — whether in academic settings, church involvement, charitable organizations, youth groups, or personal and professional endeavors. Your story can inspire others and honor the legacy of Rebeka Scalia.
Robert and Margaret Patricelli Endowed Scholarship
Current Students
The Robert and Margaret Patricelli Foundation has made an impactful contribution to the Charter Oak State College Foundation, launching the Women in Transition Fund and establishing a new Scholarship Fund. The Patricelli family is profoundly committed to the transformative power of education, believing that it can change lives and create new opportunities. Their dedication to philanthropic work underscores the importance of supporting individuals as they navigate their educational journeys.
The Patricelli Scholarship is available to students who live in Hartford, Connecticut, are enrolled in a degree program, demonstrate financial need, are Pell Grant eligible, and maintain good academic standing.
Sgt. George Dingwall
Current Students
Sergeant George R. Dingwall was a Charter Oak State graduate and Middletown, Connecticut law enforcement officer who lost his life in the line of duty. This special scholarship has been established in his memory. The scholarship is open to Charter Oak students employed in the public safety field from any geographic region within the United States with preference given to residents of Connecticut. Learn More.
Talent Accelerator Endowed Scholarship
The Talent Accelerator Endowed Scholarship Fund, created in 2024 by Joyce Petrella, the President of the Foundation Board, and her husband, Mario, stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to empowering future leaders. This fund not only reflects the mission of their firm, Calculus of Talent but also aims to "accelerate the advancement of talent and eliminate financial barriers" that hinder potential.
Eligible applicants for the Talent Accelerator Scholarship must be dedicated students at Charter Oak State College pursuing a bachelor's degree. We welcome those who face financial challenges or encounter obstacles to degree completion. To strengthen your application, clearly articulate your career objectives in a compelling essay. A minimum GPA of 3.0 is also required to demonstrate your academic commitment. Seize this opportunity to overcome barriers and propel your future forward!
The Shirley M. Adams, Ph.D., Scholarship Fund – New Beginnings
Current & Incoming Students
The Shirley M. Adams, Ph.D., Scholarship Fund – New Beginnings, is for (incoming or current) students that are independent adult students with some college credit, who are in low paying jobs or living in poverty and are first-generation college students. Students that help to educate our communities, such as Early Childhood Education (ARC, Bachelors, or Masters) programs are encouraged to apply, and will be given preference.
Udal Family Endowed Scholarship
Established by Betsy and Matthew Udal in 2024, this scholarship stands as a powerful legacy honoring the generosity, care, and compassion that uplift our neighbors and students. Committed to excellence in both personal and professional pursuits, the Udal family seeks to empower individuals in Connecticut who aspire to further their education, especially those grappling with financial challenges despite holding jobs.
Through this scholarship, the family aims to recognize and support committed incoming and returning undergraduate students who demonstrate genuine financial need, reside in Connecticut, and are active in their community. The Udal Family are committed to helping students transform their educational dreams into reality!
Graduate Students
Alumni Association Master of Science Degree Scholarship
Current & Incoming Students
The Charter Oak Alumni Association Masters Scholarship Program was created to financially assist deserving Charter Oak graduates pursuing a master’s degree at Charter Oak State College.
Prospective students can apply to both a COSC Master’s Program and the Alumni Scholarship at the same time.
Scholarship Criteria: Eligible students will be graduates of Charter Oak State College pursuing a master’s degree at Charter Oak State College who have shown outstanding academic and personal resilience, leadership experience, high academic standards, and solid career aspirations.
Foundation Master’s Degree Scholarship
Current & Incoming Students
The Foundation Master’s Degree Scholarship Award is for current and incoming enrolled students who have a minimum GPA of 3.0. This academic scholarship will be awarded based on GPA, academic achievements, and aspirations – plus the quality of the essay.
Technology Grant
The Technology Grant is to for Charter Oak students with demonstrated financial need to assist with the purchase of technology that supports online learning. A voucher to PC Richards will be provided, or reimbursement/ receipt required for eligible technology. (i.e. laptop, computer, printer, network hardware (router, modem, etc.), and/or internet provider access.) Learn More.
PiiT (Parents intent on Improving Tomorrow)
In 2020, as an answer to the racial and equity crisis in our nation, the Foundation created the Parents Intent on Improving Tomorrow Scholarship Program (PiiT) to help married mothers, and single or married fathers – parents - with educational costs via scholarships and grants. Student-parents are selected via a scholarship application process and receive financial support, assess to workshops, and other services.
The parent students benefit from the program as financial barriers are reduced and additional educational opportunities are provided. The current PiiT program is funded year by year, a legacy partner is needed to establish an Endowment Fund for our parents!
Please contact Carol Hall, foundation@charteroak.edu, or (860) 515-3889 to learn more about being the parent partner! To make a cash donation for immediate need.
Student Crisis Fund
The Charter Oak State College Foundation’s Student Crisis Fund was established in 2011 to provide funds to Charter Oak State College students for unforeseen financial crisis situations that could prevent students from successfully completing their degree. Please email foundation@charteroak.edu with your crisis need. To learn more go to the Student Crisis Fund page.
WIT (Women in Transition)
The Women in Transition Program was established in 2000, by then Charter Oak State College President, Dr. Merle Harris with funding support from Hartford Foundation for Public Giving and many others.
The program was established to provide access to postsecondary education for low-income, single mothers who have some college credit, but no degree.
The impact, priceless, as students graduate and thrive, their children are positively impacted as well. A cycle of poverty is broken – the future is brighter for mom, her children, and our communities!
The program is currently full. However, students will be notified when the application re-opens. Funding for the WIT Program is always appreciated and much needed! Please consider giving a gift today! Online giving form
The Dr. Bernard D. Shea Endowed Fund
Senior Legacy Fund
The Charter Oak State College Foundation Endowment Scholarship Funds stand as a testament to the generosity of family, friends, and supporters of Charter Oak. These funds are vital for ensuring long-term financial sustainability, as they are designed to provide lasting support for future generations. Each scholarship fund is established in honor of cherished loved ones, esteemed colleagues, and dedicated board members, celebrating their impactful legacies and solidifying their contributions in a meaningful way.
By making a transformative investment with a minimum contribution of $10,000, you have the opportunity to create an endowed named gift that will resonate for years to come. Contributions can be made in installments over a specified number of years, making it easier to fulfill this powerful pledge. It’s important to note that restricted or endowed donations are created with mutally agreed upon purposes. Then, the awards are effectively distrubuted to the specific purposes intended by the fund's guidelines.
Join us in making a lasting difference!
To create a legacy fund and contribute to future generations, please contact Carol Hall, Executive Director of the Charter Oak State College Foundation at foundation@charteroak.edu or call 860.515.3889.