A total of $40,000 is now available to help Port Stephens students starting TAFE or university in 2024 as part of the Port Stephens Mayoral Academic Scholarships.
This is the fifteenth year that local students can apply for a $2,000 scholarship to help cover the cost of their studies thanks to the joint initiative by Port Stephens Council and local Port Stephens businesses.
There are 20 scholarships available thanks to 17 local businesses that have collectively contributed $40,000 to the scholarship pool.
This year's generous sponsors include Ampcontrol, BAE Systems, Business Port Stephens, Club Lemon Tree (x2), Destination Port Stephens, Enrich HR, Hunter Land, Hunter Readymixed Concrete, McDonald Jones Homes, MOJO Homes, Newcastle Airport (2), Raymond Terrace Bowling Club, Salamander Bay Recycling, Soldiers Point Bowling Club, The Wests Group (x2), Tomago Aluminium and Weathertex.
Previous recipient Ebony Newton said the Mayoral Academic Scholarship greatly assisted her in commencing her studies at University.
"It helped ease the stress of buying textbooks and other university materials required for each of my courses," Miss Newton said.
"Through the scholarship program, I was also able to connect with industry leaders in the Port Stephens area, which was very insightful and inspiring in creating my career path," she added.
Mayor Ryan Palmer said the calibre of applications that Council receives for this program is always outstanding.
"We know these scholarships go a long way to helping students pursue their passions and achieve their goals through further education," Mayor Palmer said.
"It's more than just money though – each winning student is allocated a scholarship from a sponsor who will continue to mentor and offer work placement, helping the student build professional connections and a future career here in Port Stephens.
"I encourage students to apply for a scholarship and give yourself a head start in your academic career," he added.
Mayor Palmer also recognises the generosity of local businesses in supporting this important initiative.
"Over the last 14 years, we've helped over 170 students reach their academic goals with scholarships totalling over $340,000.
"I want to thank all of our amazing business sponsors, including our new sponsor, Enrich HR. Many of our sponsors have been with us since the start and recognise the value of investing in this program," he said.
The 2024 Mayoral Academic Scholarships are open from now until Sunday 15 January 2024.
