Greater Jefferson County Foundation Scholarship Application Period begins Nov. 1

The Greater Jefferson County Foundation Scholarship Application Period begins Nov. 1 and closes Feb. 1 at 4 p.m., CST, precisely. The application is available on the Foundation’s scholarship website at www.gjcfscholarships.org. Both FHS and Pekin senior students are invited to apply. For any questions or concerns regarding the application process, please contact the Foundation office at 641-472-0758.

The vision for a scholarship program was initiated in 1988 with the Hazel Scoval Samuelson estate making a donation to focus on a graduate that spring. Scholarships to Fairfield and Pekin High School graduating seniors has been a growth program. The Foundation disburses over $150,000.00 in scholarships annually. The Foundation, which celebrates 50 years of giving in Jefferson County in 2025, is deeply grateful to our magnificent donors, without whom these opportunities would not be possible.

This scholarship program has grown tremendously over the years with the total number of scholarships standing at 45. A majority of these scholarships have come from local longtime residents who wished to provide a legacy for their family and assist a graduating senior. Most scholarships focus on the donor’s specific interest in a college program major area of emphasis, which include education, agriculture, math/science, music, health study, forestry, conservation, art, and technology. Others, such as The Dexter Laundry Company and Crystal Group go to students whose parent is an employee of the company. Pass-through scholarships include the Ben & Judy Bower Scholarship, John & Deb Martin Scholarships, and the Jefferson County Pork Producers. In addition, the Pete & Fern Crafton and the Howard & Donna Clark Scholarships also offer opportunities to current as well as PAST FHS and Pekin Graduates.

The newest scholarship to be launched in 2026 was created by Dr. Stephen Van Tasell, for Fairfield dentist who is funding the Van Tasell Medical Scholarship for two recipients from either FHS and/or Pekin who will be studying premed, pre-dental, pre-pharmacy, nursing or another medical field.

If you would like additional information regarding the opportunity to establish a scholarship to honor a family member, influential teacher, or to emphasize a specific discipline, please contact The Greater Jefferson County Foundation at P.O. Box 1325, Fairfield, Iowa or by email at gjcf0758@windstream.net. More information about the Foundation can also be found on the main website at www.greaterjeffersoncountyfoundation.org.