Friends Education Fund Scholarship

A Brief History of the Friends Education Fund

 

The Friends Education Fund, a Quaker college scholarship program for African American students, was created in the mid-1940s by several members of Indianapolis First Friends Meeting who were the surviving governing board of the only orphanage for African American children in the state of Indiana.

The orphanage was also created by First Friends members after the Civil War.  By the 1920s, when it was closed, the orphanage had provided care for over 3,000 African American children.

In the beginning the educational program was funded by the assets which remained following the closing of the orphanage. These included a bequest from John Williams, a formerly enslaved person, who was a successful farmer and tanner in 1860s Washington County, Indiana.  In his will he requested that his assets be used to educate “poor Negro children” and, after his death, his assets were transferred by the courts to the Friends orphanage in Indianapolis.  The 1940s decision for educational scholarships was influenced by this bequest.

First Friends invested the orphanage assets and used the proceeds to assist African American students.  Since that time the directors have continued to invest and use the income generated to provide scholarships. Over $1,000,000 in scholarships have been provided to more than 1,800 students since its beginnings.

Eligibility

This scholarship is for the benefit of African American students. Applicants must be a resident of Indiana. Please fill out the application completely. Failure to do this is potentially disqualifying.   A new application must be submitted each year by May 1 for the upcoming fall semester even if you received aid the previous year. 

FAQS

How many years may I receive this scholarship?

You are eligible to receive the award for 4 years total. Some students may take a pause in their education and reapply when life circumstances apply.

What is the amount of recent awards?

In 2024 the award was $1500 or $750 per semester.

How is the award disbursed?

The award is sent directly to the school’s bursar or financial office in late June or early July for the Fall semester and in late October or early November for the Spring semester. It is very important that you let our office know of any changes in your school enrollment.

Support the Fund

If you would like to make a contribution to the scholarship fund, visit our donation page and choose “FEF Scholarship” as the fund. See instructions on how to use our online donation page here.