Intro: These scholarships are established through the generosity of the Martin Methodist Foundation and a partnership between the Martin Methodist Foundation and the Board of Higher Education and Campus Ministry of the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Annual Conference. The funds for these scholarships originate from the gifts of numerous United Methodist churches and individuals to the former Martin Methodist College and are named Martin Methodist Legacy Scholarships to honor their heritage.
Purpose: The purpose of these scholarships is to provide financial aid to deserving high school and college students for higher education.
Eligibility Criteria: These scholarships are provided to students who meet any of the following criteria:
- Students attending United Methodist-related higher education institutions
- United Methodist students attending higher education institutions in Tennessee
- United Methodist students who are residents of Tennessee
- United Methodist students attending the University of Tennessee Southern in Pulaski, Tennessee
- For purposes of this scholarship, students are considered to be “United Methodist students” if, for at least one year immediately prior to applying for this scholarship, they have been a member of the United Methodist Church or an active participant in a Wesley Foundation that is recognized and governed in accordance with the United Methodist Church’s Book of Discipline. An active participant is defined as a student engaging in Wesley Foundation activities at least once per month.
Award Amount: This is a tiered scholarship award, with scholarships ranging from $2000-$5000. Over $150,000 in scholarship funds will be awarded for this application period.
The scholarships awarded in 2025 are for one semester. Recipient(s) may reapply for this scholarship, using the scholarship application process established by the Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference Board of Higher Education and Campus Ministry
Preference: Preference will be given to applicants who are members of United Methodist Churches who have given financially to these funds. However, all persons who meet the scholarship’s eligibility are encouraged to apply.
Application Process: Applicants must:
- Indicate their eligibility criteria.
- Complete all application information.
- Submit one-page essay responses to two questions.
- Provide their most recent official high school or college transcript.
- Provide a recommendation letter from the senior pastor of their church or from their Wesley Foundation campus minister.
Deadlines: Applications for 2025 awards will be accepted from September 15, 2025 – October 15, 2025. All applications must be submitted on or before 11:59 PM on October 15, 2025. Scholarships will be awarded by December 15, 2025.
Information Contact: Mandy Mitchell, Ministry Assistant-Connectional Ministries, Tennessee-Western Kentucky Conference of the United Methodist Church
