Requirements

The  scholarship, funded and started by Jim Nelson of Ada, Michigan , is given annually to two former athletes who have met the criteria established by the committee for furthering their education and completing the academic work needed to obtain their degree at Michigan State University. It is the wishes of the GWSF founder that the selected candidates will engender similar persistence, resilient, respect and dignity in their conduct to model that of George Webster (1963-71).

“I am so honored that Jim Nelson would think so much of me to create this scholarship in my name”, said Webster during his final days. “My love for this university is unparallel and to know that Jim has created a fund that will associate my name with the University for eternity is truly humbling to me.”

"Without a doubt Mr. Nelson's generosity will have long term positive effect on former student-athletes”, says Jim Pignataro, Associate Athletics Director /Director of Student-Athlete Support Services. "For me it is an absolute pleasure to Chair the George Webster Scholarship Fund for Mr. Jim Nelson.  As a committee, we have the honor of recruiting and selecting former student-athletes who embody the charter of George Webster along with the selflessness of his actions.  There is no question Mr. Nelson's generosity will change the lives of former student-athletes forever as well as continue the legacy of George Webster's contributions to Michigan State University."

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The following are the criteria required to be eligible to participate in the program:
  1. The Candidate must be eligible for re-admission to MSU.
  2. The Candidate must submit a personal statement similar to re-enrollment process at MSU indicating why they didn’t graduate and what have they done in intervening years.
  3. The Candidate must be no more than 15 years removed from the last year of full-time enrollment.
  4. The Candidate must have earned a minimum of two varsity letters.
  5. The Candidate must have been on athletic scholarship.
  6. The scholarship is open to all former athletes regardless of sport or gender.
  7. Must show good moral character as judged by Selection Committee.
  8. Is respected by Michigan State University community.

 

Each recipient shall become familiar with the values George Webster demonstrates and further replicate his community service for those with special needs while providing encouragement as one who was fully aware of life’s trials and tribulations.

The community service emphasis of this scholarship is on local elementary, junior and senior high schools while fostering a strong belief in the value of education for all students.  Each recipient may choose to participate in the office of Student-Athlete Support Services Life Skills Programs. The recipient pledges to give back to the community with personal appearances or joint efforts with others from Michigan State University. If you feel you are eligible and meet the criteria listed above, please contact Mr. Jim Pignataro at the Clara Bell Student-Athlete Academic Center for further information regarding this scholarship.

The recipient pledges to give back to the community with personal appearances or joint efforts with others from Michigan State University.

Application Form

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