Robert G. Porter Scholars Program
Scholarship Sponsored by American Federation of Teachers
Introduction
To commemorate Robert G. Porter—who served as secretary-treasurer of the American Federation of Teachers from 1963 to 1991—the AFT provides four $8,000 scholarships to distinguished high school students. These awards recognize seniors who have demonstrated exceptional community service and who understand how unions can promote fairness and opportunity. Porter was a lifelong union advocate who fought for workers’ rights, supported civil rights, and worked to make the union a force for professional growth among its members.
Eligibility
- Open to students who are graduating from high school.
- Applicants must have at least one parent or legal guardian who is a member of the AFT.
- The AFT member who is the parent or legal guardian must have been a member in good standing for a minimum of one year.
- Dependents or children of AFT staff at the national, state, or local level are not eligible to apply.
Selection criteria and award terms
- Recipients are chosen on the basis of academic record; involvement in community service and school activities; demonstrated leadership; work experience; recommendations; special talents or skills; a required essay; and a commitment to advancing the interests of working people and strengthening unions.
- Each scholarship totals $8,000 and is disbursed over a period of four to six years, depending on how long the student takes to complete a degree. Typically, payment is made in four annual installments of $2,000, transmitted to the student and/or the institution they attend.
- Awards must be used within six years from the date they are granted.
- After the first year, continued receipt of funds requires a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 as shown on the yearly transcript submitted to the AFT Robert G. Porter Scholars Program, along with proof of ongoing enrollment and satisfactory progress toward a degree.