The Rogene Russell Scholarship is a need-based scholarship designed for students pursuing an undergraduate degree in music. Established at The Dallas Foundation by Norma and Donald J. Stone, the scholarship honors the legacy of Rogene Russell and Doug Howard, who have dedicated themselves to helping students without the financial means to continue their musical education. This guide will provide an in-depth look at this valuable opportunity, including its eligibility requirements, the application process, and what makes it a unique source of support for aspiring musicians.
The pursuit of a college-level music degree is often hindered by significant financial barriers, forcing many gifted students to abandon their dreams. This is particularly true for those with limited financial resources. The Rogene Russell Scholarship was created to directly address this critical gap. It is rooted in the belief that artistic talent should be nurtured and not stifled by financial hardship. By providing targeted support, the scholarship ensures that promising musicians from specific, deserving communities have the opportunity to realize their full potential.
What makes the Rogene Russell Scholarship stand out is its commitment to a specific community. The scholarship is specifically for students affiliated with Booker T. Washington High School in Dallas or the Fine Arts Chamber Players’ music education initiatives. This focused approach ensures that the funds directly benefit the local community, continuing the mission of Rogene Russell and Doug Howard to foster musical excellence in the Dallas area. The selection process is highly competitive and is overseen by a committee of representatives from the Fine Arts Chamber Players, The Dallas Foundation, and local arts and education leaders.
Scholarship Overview
The Rogene Russell Scholarship provides financial support for students committed to a career in music.
- Target Group: Graduating high school seniors or alumni of Booker T. Washington High School in Dallas, Texas OR current students or alumni of the Fine Arts Chamber Players’ music education initiatives.
- Study Focus: Classical composition, instrumental music, or voice.
- Mission: To provide financial assistance to students who require it to pursue a college degree in music.
Scholarship Details
| Scholarship Details | Information |
| Award Amount | Up to $10,000 per scholarship |
| Study Level | Undergraduate Music Programs (2- or 4-year) |
| Number of Awards | Varies annually |
| Eligible Institutions | Accredited colleges, universities, and conservatories in the U.S. |
| Geographic Coverage | Limited to specific Dallas-area schools and programs |
| Application Window | Typically opens in January and closes in March |
| Selection Criteria | Artistic merit and demonstrated financial need |
Scholarship Coverage
Financial Benefits The Rogene Russell Scholarship provides significant financial support to help students overcome educational costs:
- Direct Funding: The scholarship provides awards of up to $10,000, which are sent directly to the recipient’s educational institution.
- Flexible Use: Funds can be applied toward tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses.
- Need-Based: The scholarship is specifically designed to assist those with financial need, making it a critical resource for students who might not otherwise be able to afford a music degree.
Merit and Recognition In addition to financial aid, the scholarship provides recognition for artistic and academic achievements:
- Artistic Merit: The scholarship recognizes and rewards talent in classical composition, instrumental music, or voice.
- Legacy Connection: Recipients become part of a legacy of excellence, supported by a fund that has fostered musical talent for years.
- Community Investment: The scholarship is a direct investment in the future of the Dallas arts community, empowering the next generation of musicians.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Rogene Russell Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Residency/Affiliation: Must be a graduating high school senior or alumnus of Booker T. Washington High School (Dallas) or a current student or alumnus of the Fine Arts Chamber Players’ music education initiatives.
- Educational Enrollment: Planning to enroll in, or currently attending, an undergraduate music program at an accredited U.S. institution (two- or four-year).
- Artistic Merit: Must demonstrate an aptitude for classical composition, instrumental music, or voice. This is often shown through a performance video or portfolio.
- Financial Need: Must be able to demonstrate a clear financial need for the scholarship.
Application Process
The application is managed through The Dallas Foundation’s online portal with five easy steps.
- Create an Account: Start by creating an online profile on The Dallas Foundation’s website.
- Access the Application: Once logged in, you will be able to access the “Universal Scholarship Application.”
- Complete General Information: Fill out the initial application questions. Based on your responses, the system will identify the scholarships for which you are eligible.
- Submit Required Documents: This is the most crucial step. You will be prompted to submit specific documents for the Rogene Russell Scholarship, including:
- A performance video or portfolio.
- A financial need analysis.
- An academic transcript.
- Letters of recommendation.
- Final Review and Submission: Carefully review all parts of your application and ensure all documents are uploaded correctly. Your application is not complete until you submit the supplemental questions specific to the Rogene Russell Scholarship.
Apply Now
The Rogene Russell Scholarship is more than just a financial award; it is a commitment to ensuring that no aspiring musician’s potential is lost due to economic limitations. By supporting students from a specific community, it continues a legacy of empowering musical talent. If you meet the eligibility criteria, this scholarship is an invaluable opportunity to fund your educational and artistic journey.
