Millions of people face mental health challenges, yet social stigma often prevents them from seeking essential care and support. Addressing these struggles requires open dialogue, community education, and dedicated advocates. The Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship exists to address this issue directly, honoring the memory of Ethel Hayes by supporting students who actively bring mental health awareness into the open.
Established by her son, Dr. Terence O. Hayes Sr., the scholarship provides financial assistance to students whose lives have been impacted by mental health challenges. It aims to foster empathy, drive national conversation, and change perceptions particularly within communities where mental health issues have traditionally been suppressed. Securing this award enables recipients to focus on their academic journey and community advocacy work with reduced financial stress.
This prestigious award empowers students, whether they have faced mental health struggles personally or through a loved one, to continue their academic journey and advocacy work. The 2027 scholarships fundamental goal is to drive the national conversation forward. Securing this funding enables recipients to focus on their studies and community engagement efforts without the burden of tuition costs, thereby strengthening the next generation of mental health advocates.
Also apply for UNCF & HACU Awards Scholarship.
Scholarship Coverage
The Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship provides financial assistance ranging from approximately $4,880 to $6,100. This award is typically distributed to two winners annually. The funds are intended to support the academic endeavors of recipients, helping to cover tuition, books, and other related educational expenses. The exact amount is subject to change each cycle.
Eligibility Criteria
The scholarship is open to students at any educational level, including high school seniors, undergraduates, and graduate students.
There are two key eligibility criteria for the Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship:
- Enrollment Status: Applicants must be enrolled or planning to enroll in an accredited educational institution or program.
- Mental Health Impact: Candidates must have been personally impacted by mental health challenges, either through their own struggles or by having a loved one who has struggled with mental health.
The scholarship does not restrict applicants based on field of study, allowing students from all majors to demonstrate their commitment to destigmatization.
Application Process
The application process is simple and focuses on a compelling written submission. To apply for the scholarship, you must complete the steps on the official scholarship platform.
There is one core requirement for the application:
- Essay Submission: Applicants must write a short essay, typically between 200 and 1,000 words. The essay must address the topic: “How has your experience with mental health shaped your goals, relationships, and understanding of the world?” Selection is based on the quality and impact of this essay.
The platform may also require basic academic documents, such as proof of enrollment, to verify your student status.
Deadline
The application deadlines for the Ethel Hayes Destigmatization of Mental Health Scholarship typically fall in June or July of the application year. The deadline for the 2027 cycle is June 14, 2027 (or July 17, 2027 on some sources). You must submit your complete application and essay before this date.
