News Summary
The Great Aspirations Scholarship Program (GRASP) has awarded $237,500 to 220 Virginia high school students graduating in 2025. This initiative, aimed at supporting students from diverse financial and social backgrounds, underscores GRASP’s commitment to helping students overcome obstacles in their pursuit of higher education. The program includes free counseling services at 113 high schools, assisting over 8,500 students with college applications and financial aid. Additionally, GRASP will celebrate scholarship recipients at seven regional luncheons around Virginia.
Richmond, Virginia
The Great Aspirations Scholarship Program (GRASP), a Richmond-based non-profit organization, has awarded $237,500 in scholarships to 220 Virginia high school students graduating in 2025. This initiative aims to provide financial support to students regardless of their financial or social circumstances, making it easier for them to pursue higher education.
About the Scholarship Program
GRASP focuses on creating opportunities for students who might encounter obstacles in their quest for postsecondary education. The scholarships granted this year will significantly assist students looking to continue their education, especially those who will be the first in their families to do so.
Free Counseling Services
The organization has established counseling programs implemented in 113 Virginia high schools. Experienced advisors provide free, confidential, one-on-one counseling, which plays a crucial role in guiding students through the complexities of college applications and financial aid. During the 2024-2025 academic year, advisors conducted meetings with over 8,500 students to ensure they receive adequate support.
How Students Can Access Services
GRASP advisors work one day per week at each participating high school, and students can conveniently schedule free appointments using their school’s counseling offices, thus ensuring that all students can easily access these essential services.
Regional Scholarship Luncheons
To honor the scholarship recipients and participating seniors, GRASP will host seven regional scholarship luncheons across Virginia. These events will take place in towns including Warsaw, South Hill, Cedar Bluff, Staunton, Richmond, Hopewell, and Williamsburg. The Staunton luncheon is scheduled for May 29 at the Frontier Culture Museum, where students from various regions will be recognized for their achievements and hard work.
Funding for GRASP Programs
The scholarship program, alongside the advisory services, is funded through generous donor support as well as contributions from the Commonwealth of Virginia. This collaborative effort enables GRASP to make a meaningful impact on the lives of Virginia students.
Further Information
Students, educators, and interested individuals can find more information about the scholarships, advisory services, and the full list of scholarship recipients on the GRASP website at www.grasp4va.org. This resource continues to emphasize the importance of education and accessibility for all students across Virginia.
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Additional Resources
- Augusta Free Press: GRASP Announces Scholarships
- WTVR: Free FAFSA Workshops
- Weirton Daily Times: Education Officials in West Virginia
- CSR Wire: Smithfield Foods Sponsors Financial Aid Advisors
- News Leader: The Chalkboard Clothing Closet
- Wikipedia: Scholarship
- Google Search: Financial Aid
- Google Scholar: College Scholarships
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Financial Aid
- Google News: College Admissions
Author: STAFF HERE WILLIAMSBURG WRITER
WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER The WILLIAMSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREWilliamsburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Williamsburg, James City County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Williamsburg Farmers Market, Yorktown Market Days, and Busch Gardens Food & Wine Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce and Colonial Williamsburg Foundation, plus leading businesses in education and hospitality that power the local economy such as College of William & Mary, The Williamsburg Winery, and Sodexo. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREVirginiaBeach.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Virginia's dynamic landscape.
