Texas Wendish Heritage Scholarship Program (2016-2017)
Texas Wendish Heritage Scholarship applications are now being accepted for the 2016-17 school year. The scholarship program was established to encourage students of Wendish descent to learn more about and develop an appreciation for their Wendish heritage. Applicants must be enrolled in an accredited college, university or trade school for 2016-17. In addition, applicants and their parents must also be members of the Texas Wendish Heritage Society. If you are considering applying and are not currently a TWHS member, you can easily join by completing a membership card and submitting dues with your scholarship application. You may also join online. Membership dues paid prior to September 1 are applied to current calendar year, with renewals due the following January.
Applications are available at the museum or can be downloaded below. The essay topic for the 2016-2017 application is as follows: The objectives of the TWHS as stated in the bylaws are many. The first objective challenges the Society to offer the members a deeper understanding of and appreciation for the cultural background of their ancestors. Cite an example of something from your knowledge of Wendish culture, your background, or heritage that is unique to the Wends. Then describe in detail how you (a) learned of it (family, friends, other Wends), and (b) its history, practice(s), traditions, colorful anecdotes, etc., all of which should illustrate why your example might help other members better understand and appreciate the culture.
Application deadline is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, July 15, 2016. The application must be filled out in its entirety and include the following: completed Pedigree Chart, essay of up to 1,000 words on the subject described on the application form, and proof of enrollment.
Recipients will be notified by mail and will be introduced during Wendish Fest on Sunday, September 25. If you have any questions, contact the museum.
This scholarship program is funded through our annual to-go meal fundraiser, from proceeds of the coffee cake auction at Wendish Fest, and through donations from our members. As families gather for reunions, they might discuss these scholarships and how to honor their ancestors with donations to this fund. Thank you all for supporting the growth of this program that, in turn, supports our younger Wendish generation.
Texas Wendish Heritage Society Scholarship Application (2016-2017) (click to download form)