Milford Rotary Club Seeking Applicants for their expanded 2026 Scholarship Program with new $38,000 Warnell awards!

Photo: Winner of the 2025 Rotary Scholarship. Rotary seeking applications for 2026!

Major new scholarship from Dr. Joseph L. Warnell Charitable Trust highlights expanded opportunity for Milford-area students

MILFORD — The Milford Rotary Club is now accepting applications for its 2026 scholarship program, offering thousands of dollars in financial support to local students preparing for college, trade school, and other post-graduation opportunities.

The Milford Rotary Club Educational Foundation expects to award seven traditional scholarships valued at $2,500 each, along with two $2,000 renewal scholarships, continuing one of the region’s most established community-driven scholarship efforts.

This year’s program includes a significant expansion, highlighted by the introduction of two new high-value scholarships funded by the Dr. Joseph L. Warnell Charitable Trust.

The program is open to all graduating seniors who reside within the Milford School District, regardless of where they attend school.

New $38,000 Warnell Scholarships Lead Expansion

The headline addition to this year’s program is the introduction of two Dr. Joseph L. Warnell Charitable Trust Scholarships, each valued at approximately $38,000 — covering the equivalent of one year’s tuition, room, board, books and supplies at the University of Delaware.

These scholarships are renewable for up to three additional years, creating the potential for a transformational, multi-year investment in a student’s education.

Applicants must plan to pursue a degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, or a field leading to a career in human or animal healthcare.

Rotary leaders say the addition reflects a growing commitment to supporting high-demand career fields while expanding access to life-changing educational opportunities.

Supporting Leadership, Character, and Service

Beyond the new Warnell scholarships, the Rotary program continues to recognize students for more than academic performance.

“These scholarships recognize more than academic success — they highlight leadership, resilience and a commitment to serving others,” organizers said.

The program is funded through community-driven efforts, including the club’s annual Flags for Heroes campaign and contributions from Rotary members.

Applicants are evaluated on academic achievement, leadership, character, citizenship and the quality of a required essay.

Full List of 2026 Scholarships

In addition to the two new Warnell Trust awards, the Milford Rotary Club will offer:

Two $2,500 Rotary Traditional Scholarships will be awarded based on the student’s leadership, character, citizenship, academic achievement, and quality of an original essay.
One $2,500 Rotary Warnell Scholarship (science or mathematics focus)
One $2,500 Rotary Interact Scholarship (for Interact Club members)
One $2,500 Rotary Service Above Self Scholarship (leadership, character, citizenship and community service focus)
One $2,500 Rotary Perseverance Scholarship (leadership and character, but focused on resilience and perseverance)
One $2,500 Dr. William Warren Scholarship (preference for education majors)

In addition, the Garbutt Family Trust will provide two $2,000 renewal scholarships.

Building Real Impact

Recent recipients reflect the depth of talent and service among Milford-area students.

2024 Scholarship Recipients

Annie Zhan, Milford High School — Rotary Traditional Scholarship
Carley Mackert, Milford High School — Rotary Traditional Scholarship
Laura (Daniel) Fulton, Milford High School — Rotary Warnell Scholarship
Kenet Perez-Rosales, Milford High School — Donovan Interact Scholarship
William Evans, Milford High School — Service Above Self Scholarship
Elliana Stoliker, Milford High School — Perseverance Scholarship
Tashanna McNair, Milford High School — Dr. William Warren Scholarship

2025 Scholarship Recipients

Megan Johnson, Milford High School — Rotary Traditional Scholarship
Ricardo Bruinton, Milford High School — Garbutt Family Trust Scholarship
Logan Huey, Sussex Academy — Rotary Warnell Scholarship
Maahi Patel, Milford High School — Donovan Interact Scholarship
Anna Coverdale, Cape Henlopen High School — Service Above Self Scholarship
Grace LoBiondo, Milford High School — Perseverance Scholarship
Bailey Masten, Milford High School — Dr. William Warren Scholarship

Who Can Apply

Applicants must:

Reside within the Milford School District
Be graduating high school seniors (public, private, charter, parochial or homeschooled)
Submit an application by April 20, 2026
Not be children or grandchildren of Milford Rotary Club members

Applicants are encouraged to view all eligibility criteria within the application. Any questions can be referred to me at robinsirkis1@gmail.com.

Scholarship Applications

What: Milford Rotary Club 2026 Scholarship Program
Who: Graduating seniors living in the Milford School District
Awards: $2,000 to $38,000
Deadline: April 20, 2026

Apply: