University City committee establishes $50K renewable scholarship for arts students

During a recent University City Study Session held on May 12, 2025, the City Council engaged in discussions centered around a proposed scholarship initiative aimed at supporting local high school graduates interested in the arts. The meeting featured insights from Jenny Chase, an independent contractor involved in fundraising for the University City School District, who provided a detailed overview of the scholarship's framework and objectives.

Chase explained that the initiative, developed in collaboration with the CALA committee, seeks to establish a $50,000 scholarship fund dedicated to University City High School graduates pursuing post-secondary education in film and the arts. The plan involves disbursing $2,000 annually to recipients, with the scholarship being renewable for up to four years. This structure is designed to provide sustained financial support for students as they navigate their educational journeys.

The scholarship fund will be managed by the St. Louis Community Foundation, which will invest the principal amount to generate interest, ensuring the longevity of the fund. Chase emphasized the importance of a formal application process, which aims to maintain fairness and transparency by adhering to strict criteria, thereby minimizing biases in the selection of recipients.

The council's discussion highlighted the significance of this scholarship initiative in fostering local talent and supporting students' aspirations in the arts. As the meeting concluded, council members expressed their appreciation for the initiative's potential impact on the community, indicating a commitment to further deliberation on the proposal.

In summary, the University City Study Session underscored the council's dedication to enhancing educational opportunities for local youth, particularly in creative fields. The anticipated next steps include finalizing the scholarship's details and determining the council's official stance on the initiative, which promises to enrich the cultural landscape of University City.