Scholarship Info:

The Dare Education Foundation has announced enhancements to its scholarship program that expand long-term support for Dare County students. Beginning with the upcoming scholarship cycle, DEF scholarships will transition to renewable awards, allowing recipients to receive funding for up to four years, contingent upon meeting renewal criteria. This change reflects DEF’s commitment to supporting students across a wide range of postsecondary pathways, including four-year degrees, two-year programs, and vocational or technical training.

DEF has also partnered with the Outer Banks Community Foundation (OBCF) to manage the scholarship application platform and administration, creating a more streamlined and user-friendly process for students. While OBCF will oversee application administration, DEF will continue to select and award scholarships, ensuring the program remains grounded in the foundation’s educational mission and community values.

We offer approximately $30,000 in college financial support annually through:

• DEF Scholarships - Available to ALL DCS high school seniors, prioritizing financial need and academic achievement

• Mollie Shannon Gallop (AVID) Scholarship - Available to DCS high school seniors who participated in the AVID program

• Gwen E. Botson Foundation Scholarship - Available to FFHS high school seniors who have overcome personal adversity, specifically through athletics.