Thiel College President Dr. Lance A. Masters announced today the establishment of the Thiel College Fallen Hero Scholarship, which will provide full tuition for four years to dependent children of military personnel killed in action during operations in Afghanistan and Iraq.

The total value of the scholarship, Masters said, is roughly $70,000, and is subject to change based on changes in Thiel’s tuition costs.

“The Fallen Hero Scholarship would not be possible without the assistance and foresight of state Sen. Bob Robbins,” Masters said, adding that Robbins approached him about Widener University’s CARES program, also supported by the senator. 

“Through this scholarship, we want to ensure that the children of those brave individuals who gave of their lives in the name of freedom will be able to continue their educations and pursue their dreams,” said Masters.

Thiel will offer at least two Fallen Hero Scholarships each year to students who meet the college’s admission requirements. Students must remain in good academic standing by maintaining a 2.3 cumulative grade point average in order to continue to receive the scholarship each subsequent year. 

“I would like to commend Thiel for stepping up and establishing this scholarship,” said Robbins.  “The truth is, it will help provide relief in times of uncertainty for the families of our fallen heroes.”

“The Fallen Hero Scholarship is a fitting way to recognize the selfless service of those who keep us safe and preserve our way of life," said Maj. Gen. Jessica L. Wright, adjutant general of the Pennsylvania National Guard, who was also in attendance for the announcement.

Applicants will also be required to file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and apply for all available government grant assistance.  Room, board, fees and costs associated with books and materials will be the responsibility of the student.

Application deadline is March 1.  If applications exceed the number of available scholarships, the scholarship committee will review applications and award scholarships based upon a number of qualifying criteria.

An endowment fund will be established to expand the scholarship opportunities to incoming students.  Donors may contact Mario Marini, director of special gifts, at 724.589.2022 to discuss how to make contributions.