In collaboration with The American Society of the Italian Legions of Merit (ASILM), the Columbus Citizens Foundation is promoting the Leandro P. Rizzuto Scholarship. This scholarship will be awarded to one or more outstanding Italian American students to study at a U.S. accredited college or university located in Italy for up to one year of study, commencing in the Summer/Fall of each academic year.
The student must be a graduating high school student or college student, demonstrate financial need and have and maintain a GPA of 3.5 out of 4 (or the equivalent) or higher. The scholarship amount is up to $55,000.00 and the award and the amount will be in the sole discretion of the ASILM Scholarship Committee.
Specific Criteria:
Have at least a parent or two grandparents or great grandparents of Italian ancestry
Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
Be accepted or enrolled on a full time basis in a U.S. accredited undergraduate college or university located in Italy.
Have and maintain a GPA of at least 3.5 out of 4 (or the equivalent) and demonstrate academic excellence
Demonstrate community or civic interest and be of high moral character
Take steps to learn more about their Italian heritage
Demonstrate financial need
Submit a complete application together with all supporting documentation by the second Thursday in May of each year.
Scholarship Application and Attachments:
Submit the FAFSA Student Aid Summary
Complete an application form provided by the Scholarship Committee
Provide high school or college transcript (must contain at least two full years of grades) and other academic information
Submit an essay regarding (i) why they would like to study at a U.S. accredited college or university located in Italy, and (ii) what it means to be Italian American and why it is important to maintain your cultural roots
Submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher or professor with whom they have had regular contact
Submit a resume listing academic background, extracurricular activities, organization memberships, and awards
Visit our website for more information or find the application form below. Apply here.
