Student Scholarships

2026 Dare Education Foundation Scholarship recipients:

First Flight High School:

  • Sarah Ward – Dare Education Foundation Scholarship ($1,000)

  • Jireh Benites-Polanco – Mollie Shannon Gallop Scholarship ($1,000)

  • Keit Lokaj – Gwen E. Botson Scholarship ($2,500)

  • John Thomas – Gwen E. Botson Scholarship ($2,500)

Manteo High School:

  • Whitnney Salazar-Gutierrez - Dare Education Foundation Scholarship ($1,000)

Cape Hatteras Secondary School:

  • Alaina Bonanni - Dare Education Foundation Scholarship ($1,000)

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.

This school year, DEF is awarding the following scholarships:

  • DEF Renewable Scholarships:Three 4-year renewable scholarships ($1,000 per year; $4,000 total)

    • Criteria: 3.5 GPA, Extra Curricular and Community Service Involvement

    • Minimum of one scholarship awarded per school

NEXT CYCLE BEGINS FALL 2026