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2026 -2027 Scholarships

A priority of the Friends of Ridgway State Park is to encourage the  exploration of environmental issues and problem solving through education. Through our scholarship program, we strive to help interested youth develop a deeper understanding of environmental issues and give them the skills to make informed and responsible decisions. Since 2007, we have awarded scholarships totaling $45,000 to 30 young Coloradans in support of this goal.

General Scholarship Information

Two $2,500, or one $5,000 scholarship shall be awarded annually.  Applications are accepted in January through April of each year and the completed application deadline is May 31, 2026.

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Scholarship Requirements

  • Graduates from High School in Mesa, Delta, Montrose, San Miguel, San Juan, or Ouray Counties

  • Currently enrolled in a four year college or higher

  • Passed at least one semester of post-secondary education at a qualified college or university

  • Enrolled in a major in environmental/biological studies or equivalent

  • Application received by May 31, 2026 via mail or e-mail

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2025 Scholarship
Recipients

Left is Chente Anderson, resident of Ridgway, CO and attending Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO. Chente is entering his sophomore year with a major in Environmental Studies and taking courses for certification in Geographic Information Systems. He also has a minor in music. His major goal is to work in Environmental Conservation or through Geographic Information Systems.

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Right is Paul Steinke, resident of Ridgway, CO and attending California Polytechnic State University in California. Paul is entering his senior year with a major in Biological Sciences and a minor in Philosophy. He is also a member of the Research Lab at Cal Poly. His main career goal is work that helps the Earth be a better place which leads him to Conservation and Environmental Issues.

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2024 Friends of Ridgway Park Scholarship Recipient

The Friends of Ridgway State Park awarded Paul Steinke a $5000 scholarship.  Paul 

completed his sophomore year at California Polytechnic University majoring in Biological

Sciences of plants and animals.  His spring education term was spent in New Zealand 

along with 17 other students - a great educational event.  Paul resides in Ridgway, CO 

with parents Mike and Patrice Campbell.  Paul has participated in many community activities

including the Audubon Society.  This summer he is working for the Ridgway parks adding

to his plant knowledge.  Congratulations Paul Steinke.

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