Nicholas Braswell Strong Roots Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Nicholas Braswell Attorney at Law

At the heart of Virginia Defense Group's mission is a commitment to serve and protect the Richmond locality. Over time, we've fostered a deep bond with the residents and locales of eastern Virginia.

Establishing a nurturing bond with a community necessitates investment in time, energy, and patience. Modern society presents countless opportunities for a nomadic lifestyle, enabling continuous movement without settling down. Despite a common longing for community, it's typically a select few who endeavor to create that sense of togetherness in our so-called "home."

As our lives become increasingly digitized and experiences become more remote, conversations surrounding the creation of robust communities become crucial. We take pride in sponsoring the Strong Roots Scholarship and Essay Contest to stimulate discussion about the concept of community in today's digital era. Simultaneously, it provides a platform to support educational opportunities for those committed to nurturing robust communities where ambitions and careers can flourish.

This contest, along with the accompanying $500 scholarship, is available to individuals across the nation who are signed up for any accredited post-secondary institution for the 2024 – 2025 academic year.

Eligibility and Selection Criteria

Participants of the Strong Roots Scholarship essay contest must adhere to the following requirements:

• All participants must be currently enrolled (or intending to enroll) in an accredited post-secondary program, including community colleges, private or public undergraduate colleges, universities, private or public graduate degree programs, law programs, and business programs.
• All participants must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
• All participants must demonstrate an interest in community development, as evidenced by their essay and resume.

High School seniors are welcome to apply for this scholarship.

Application Requirements

• The participant must complete the form below providing all necessary details.
• The participant must submit a 500-word essay in response to the prompt: How is the definition of community evolving in today's world, and how does that impact those aspiring to develop strong, healthy communities?
• Please be aware that all essays will be scrutinized for AI writing. If AI writing is detected, the application will be disqualified.
• The participant must submit a professional resume detailing their professional and academic experience.
• The participant must provide a transcript from their current school. First-year college students, graduate students, or individuals who have recently transferred schools can submit an unofficial transcript from their existing school and the most recent official transcript from their previous school. High school students must also submit proof of acceptance to their college or university.
• Preference will be given to students who are either from or attending secondary school in the state.
• The final date to submit the scholarship essay contest application is August 31, 2025. Applications received post this deadline will not be accepted.