Mary A. Kelly Graduate Scholarship
Graduate Students
Mary A. Kelly Graduate Scholarship Application
Mary A. Kelly was a past president of the South Carolina International Reading Association (SCIRA), currently known as the Palmetto State Literacy Association (PSLA). She was a state coordinator and teacher in the Columbia area for many years. Upon retirement, Mary coordinated extensive volunteer work until her death, emphasizing the importance of literacy at any age. This scholarship is given in her memory.
Two individuals pursuing graduate work in field of education will receive a $2,000 scholarship. The check for the scholarship amount will be payable to both the recipient and his or her college or university.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be registered for or pursuing a graduate degree in the field of education at an accredited college or university.
- Have at least two years of successful teaching experience.
- Be a resident of the state of South Carolina.
- Be a current PSLA member by November 1st.
Please complete and submit the requested information no later than December 1, 2025, to be considered for this scholarship.
● A completed online Mary A. Kelly scholarship application form.
● One letter of recommendation from the applicant’s present employer, a past or present professor, and a local PSLA council member.
● A one-page response to the following prompt –“Why are you pursuing an advanced degree? How will you use this additional educational experience upon completion of the degree? Why you are deserving of this scholarship?”
● How will this impact Literacy learning for your learners?
● Upload any pictures, or student/teacher work that supports your learning.
Chairperson: Dr. Mary Howard