Because of generous support from many donors over time, Trinity is able to offer financial assistance to student members, some in the form of specific scholarships, but most through the offer of no-interest student loans.
Students may download the application from the PDF link at the end of this article. Forms should be submitted to the church no later than May 15 and must be re-submitted annually. (No reminders will be sent individually, but a notice will be placed in the church newsletter, Steeple Notes.) Applications will be considered by the Educational Assistance Committee, and candidates will be scheduled for a personal interview in June. After vestry consideration of the recommendations at the July meeting, all students will be notified.
Those persons who are offered loans will then receive a repayment document to complete. Once that paperwork and all other requirements are met, a check will be disbursed by mid August. Instructions are included in the application and further details about the Educational Assistance program can be found in the policies document below:
Application For Educational Assistance
Policies Of The Educational Assistance Committee
Trinity Scholarships
Ann Darlington Memorial Scholarship: a renewable award for graduate study in the fields of psychology, child guidance, or social service for children, including related fields in which the applicant will enable children to develop full potential, positive self-esteem, and provide therapy in affective, cognitive, and behavioral disorders. Preference is given to graduates of Berks County schools, particularly Trinity members, who will make Berks County their residence and place of work.
Paul D. Edelman College Fund: a trust used to grant or renew scholarship(s) to one or more students graduating from the public high schools of Berks County. Although not restricted to members of Trinity, they would have preference.
Truman L & Miriam Koehler Trust: a restricted scholarship awarded to primary members of Trinity who attend Muhlenberg College. Recipients must maintain a 3.0 GPA.
The Peter Ilgen Memorial Scholarship: is unrestricted. It is preferred that it be awarded to an undergraduate studying engineering.
The James Duggan Memorial Music Scholarship: provides an annual award to study, pursue, or enhance a musical career or discipline (vocal, choral, instrumental, composition, or directorial) preferably at an undergraduate institution. Members of Trinity, who have been active in the music program, have preference.
Trinity Loans
Susan F. Dickinson Fund: provides loans for financial assistance for higher education for primary members of Trinity. Also, grants can be given to individuals entering professions directly related to church work. For each year the recipient works in a church related occupation, one year of the grant is written off. Otherwise, the money is considered a loan and must be repaid.
The Bard Fund: loans are restricted to members of Trinity, with preference given to those who have been active in the worship and service life of the congregation.
