First Literacy annually awards $1,000 scholarships to recent graduates of Massachusetts adult basic education or English language programs who are continuing to vocational training or higher education.
What unites all First Literacy Scholars is their resolve to improve their lives through education. Many are the first in their families to attend college. Most are heads of households with financial and care-giving responsibilities, and many hold more than one job. First Literacy scholarships have helped over 500 adult learners with mentoring and monetary support. Every year we honor their efforts and achievements at our annual Scholarship Ceremony.
Watch our 2020 Virtual Scholarship Ceremony
First Literacy Scholarships are awarded in recognition of
- Educational achievements and potential
- Community service
- Perseverance in the face of hardship
Applications and Eligibility Requirements
- 2020-2021 Scholarship Eligibility Requirements & Deadlines
- 2020-2021 New Scholarship Application
- 2020-2021 Continuing Scholarship Application
For more information about First Literacy new and continuing scholarships contact Bryan McCormick, Program Director, at bmccormick@firstliteracy.org or call 617-482-3336 x113.
Meet Our 2019 Scholars
First Literacy Special Scholarships
The Mayor Thomas Menino Scholarship was created in 2014 to honor Mayor Menino’s commitment to adult literacy education and the potential of all students.
2014 — Angelina Gigante
2015 — Jason Grant
2016 — Moses Kabwe
2017 — Marie Regine Paul
2018 — Edith Lorfils
2019 — Tatiana Jean Philippe
The William Berman Scholarship recognizes Mr. Berman’s years of dedicated service to First Literacy and his love of learning throughout his life.
2016 — Malquisua Sousa
2017 — Diandra Dawson
2018 — Adriana Echeverria
2019 — Geraldine Calderon
The First Literacy Board of Directors’ Scholarship in honor of Skye Morrison Kramer recognizes Ms. Kramer’s nine years of dedicated service to First Literacy as Executive Director.
2019 — Julia Dupere