FERRUM, VA, February 18, 2025 — Ferrum College and the Franklin County Board of Supervisors announced the creation of a Resident Impact Scholarship at the Board of Supervisors monthly meeting on February 18. Initially funded with $100,000 allocated by the Board of Supervisors, the scholarship will support one or more Franklin County residents while they pursue an undergraduate degree at Ferrum College.
“We’re excited to implement this partnership with Ferrum College to create a scholarship fund for Franklin County students,” stated Franklin County Board of Supervisors Chairman Ronnie Thompson. “This is a big win for our community, giving local students more opportunities to continue their education and achieve their goals. By working together with Ferrum College, we’re helping ensure our young people the support they need to succeed, and in turn, we’re investing in the future of Franklin County. We’re proud of this collaboration and look forward to seeing the impact it will have on our students and the community as a whole.”
Students eligible for the scholarship must demonstrate high financial need and permanent residence in Franklin County throughout the time they receive funds. They must be in good academic standing, maintaining a minimum grade point average of 2.0. Scholarship funds can be used for tuition, room, board, and associated fees of Ferrum College.
Scholarship recipients who meet the requirements may be able to apply for continuing support after their first scholarship year. Awards may also go to more than one student at a time, as funds are available. If multiple students apply, the gift agreement allows for the director of financial aid to consider the students’ academic records, civic engagement, athletics, or other characteristics that demonstrate commitment to Ferrum’s motto, “Not Self, But Others.” Any additional funding from the county will depend on future votes by the Board of Supervisors.
Ferrum President Mirta Martin said, “We are deeply grateful to the Franklin County Board of Supervisors for their incredible generosity and commitment to investing in the future of our students. This $100,000 in scholarships will provide invaluable opportunities for Franklin County residents to pursue their education right here at Ferrum College while remaining in the community they call home. My heartfelt thanks to the Board and to Mr. Tim Tatum for their vision and dedication in making this a reality. Their support strengthens our shared mission of empowering students and fostering the growth and success of Franklin County.” Tatum represents the Blue Ridge District, which includes Ferrum, on the Board.
