JOY Literacy Foundation

Dr. Caroline White

Message from the CEO

Why focus on literacy scholarships? Because strong readers and writers become strong thinkers and leaders. And often, teachers are at the heart of that journey. A single teacher can turn the struggle to read into the joy of learning. A single teacher can turn writing into a powerful skill that leads a student onto a new and exciting path. I’ve seen it happen. More than once!

Dr. Caroline White

Our Mission Is Simple:

JOY Literacy Foundation awards scholarships to literacy teachers-in-training, current literacy educators pursuing advanced knowledge, and those preparing to train future literacy educators.

Person writing

We’re excited to support caring college students who are preparing to teach literacy. If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply.

📄 What’s Required?

  • Complete an application
  • Submit a personal essay
  • Provide a current transcript
  • Include two letters of recommendation from professors
  • Participate in a brief phone interview

💵 Scholarship Details

Scholarships will be awarded in amounts up to $10,000. If a recipient doesn’t use the full amount awarded in the fall semester, the remaining funds may be applied to the spring semester. Payments will be made directly from the foundation to the bursar’s office upon receipt of an invoice.

📅 Key Dates

  • Applications open: January 1, 2026
  • Deadline to apply: March 15, 2026
  • Recipients announced: Starting May 1, 2026
Person reading a book