Fitzpatrick Scholarship
The Bucks County Community College Foundation (BCCCF), in partnership with the Michael G. Fitzpatrick Foundation, is proud to announce a new scholarship program with significant support, the Michael G. Fitzpatrick Scholars Scholarship Program. A first of its kind, taking applications beginning February 1, 2023, the Scholars Scholarship Program will be open to students who demonstrate a genuine interest in public service. Additionally, the program will connect students with financial resources and a success coach and will require recipients to attend public service-related events at the college.
“Michael's family and friends established the Michael G Fitzpatrick Foundation to honor his legacy of selfless public service. The Michael G Fitzpatrick Scholarship will benefit the neediest of students at Bucks County Community College. It is our hope that these scholars, during their time in school and after graduation, will establish and promote a county-wide "peace corps" of selfless public service.” - stated James Fitzpatrick, Michael's father.
The stipulations and guidelines are as follows:
-Students of Bucks County who need additional financial assistance to attend college -Students who commit to engagement with a college-appointed success coach
-Students who will attend college event(s) related to public service, such as an annual panel discussion on public service named in Michael's honor
Michael G. Fitzpatrick Scholars will also be encouraged to establish themselves as a member of the Michael G. Fitzpatrick Scholars Student Club, which will emphasize public service.
In support of this new program, the Michael G. Fitzpatrick Foundation will establish an ongoing partnership with the Bucks County Community College, advocating for scholarship recipients and providing programmatic support. In addition, the Fitzpatrick Foundation has committed to making contributions to BCCF for at least three years with a minimum donation of $180,000, further establishingthe fund while contributing towards the employment of a success coach. The Scholars Scholar program has been created in memory of and honors the legacy of longtime Bucks County Commissioner and Congressman Michael Fitzpatrick, a dedicated and tireless public servant. Preference for the scholarships will be given to families of Veterans and First Responders.
Mark S. Schweiker, 44th Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, stated: "Along with Mike Fitzpatrick's beautiful family, his greatest legacy remains those who he inspired to provide lasting constructive work for their neighbors through public service. Guided by Mike's deep sense of community, our Foundation nurtures public and civic service in Bucks County through careful programmatic giving to organizations and individuals who demonstrate an enduring capacity to improve the lives of Bucks County citizens positively. Please join and support us in this important mission!"
Future Foundation donations will be focused on areas that were important to Mike: First responders, Veterans, and public service. The applications will be open starting February 1, and scholarship recipients will be selected over the summer of 2023 for the 2023/2024 academic year. Scholarship award amounts will vary and are based on financial need. Interested student applicants can visit https://www.bucks.edu/scholarships/michaelgfitzpatrickscholarsscholarship/ for more information.
“Bucks County Community College is honored to be the steward and home for the Michael G Fitzpatrick Scholars program. The opportunity for the College to engage and develop future civic leaders for our County, is a true honor. We thank the Family for entrusting Congressman Fitzpatrick’s legacy to us.” - Stated Bucks County Community College President, Dr. Felicia L. Ganther.