Applications for the Gerome Walton Memorial College Scholarship provided by the American Numismatic Association (ANA) are being accepted through March 14. The scholarship fund was established in 2014 to provide a graduating high school senior who is also a member of the ANA with $1,000 to use at the post-secondary school of the student’s choice. Scholarship winners will be chosen based on numismatic merit.
The scholarship can be used for tuition, books, or supplies directly related to class requirements. Up to two scholarships may be awarded annually. Students with a full class schedule, who maintain a B average throughout their higher education, can receive the $1,000 scholarship for up to four years.
“As an educational organization, the ANA is proud to present this scholarship opportunity to students,” said Paula Knepper, the ANA’s eLearning and Education Programs Manager. “We hope this scholarship will encourage students to continue their study and involvement in numismatics and help them in their educational journey.”
Besides holding membership in the ANA, applicants must be a graduating high school senior with a cumulative grade-point average of at least a 3.0. The winning students may use the scholarship at any two- or four-year college, university, or trade school within the United States.
Two letters of reference must be sent on the applicant’s behalf. The authors of the references may not be family members. Reference letters must be submitted by the person writing the reference, not the scholarship applicant, and must be received at the ANA by March 14.
The first scholarship was graciously underwritten by Brian Fanton, ANA Education & Young Numismatist Committee Chair and former ANA Governor, and Walter Ostromecki Jr., ANA Governor and past President. Funds for future scholarships will be raised through donations.
Applications must be postmarked by March 14, 2025. Completed applications and references should be sent to:
For additional information, contact Paula Knepper via email at [email protected] or call (719) 482-9852.
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1. It’s commendable that the ANA is investing in the future of numismatics by supporting young collectors’ higher education pursuits. This scholarship could be the spark that ignites a lifelong passion for numismatics in the next generation of scholars and collectors.
2. A $1,000 scholarship might not seem like much in the grand scheme of college tuition costs, but every little bit helps, and the potential for renewal over four years makes it even more valuable. Plus, the prestige associated with winning an ANA scholarship could open doors to other opportunities.
3. Requiring applicants to have two letters of recommendation, neither from family, speaks volumes about the ANA’s commitment to selecting well-rounded individuals with demonstrable interest in numismatics. It’s not just about grades; it’s about character and passion.
4. The fact that the initial funding for this scholarship came from individual ANA members shows a real dedication to fostering the next generation of numismatists. Hopefully, this inspires others to contribute and expand the program’s reach.
5. While the scholarship is open to students attending trade schools, I’m curious how many recipients choose that path versus traditional four-year colleges. It would be interesting to see data on career paths chosen by past scholarship winners.