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Scholarships and Prizes

There are a number of scholarships and prizes available to students in the English department. Some are open to English majors only, and students are invited to apply. Others are open to all students, and have an open application process. We also have a fund in memory of our colleague Paula Blank, which supports student research in early modern literature and drama.

Lang Legacy Scholarship
The Lang Legacy Scholarship is awarded every fall semester to two academically distinguished senior English majors. Application is by invitation only.

Ann C. Shrieves Scholarship
The Ann C. Shrieves Scholarship is awarded every fall semester to an academically distinguished senior English major from Virginia. Application is by invitation only.

David C. Jenkins Memorial Scholarship in Creative Writing
Three David C. Jenkins Memorial Scholarships are awarded annually. There is one scholarship for poetry, one for fiction and one for creative nonfiction. The application process is currently under review.

Dr Murray Eugene Borish Prize
The Dr Murray Eugene Borish Prize is presented annually to the graduating English major who is judged the most informed and capable in English studies as evidenced by distinction in scholarship and excellence in writing. Application is by invitation only.

John H. Willis Jr. Scholarship
The John H. Willis, Jr. Scholarship is awarded at the end of each academic year to support a student’s academic enrichment through experiences such as honors research, archival travel, and study abroad. All eligible students may apply.

Concord Traveling Scholarship
The Concord Traveling Scholarship for Creative Writers supports projects that involve travel and writing.  One scholarship is awarded at the end of each academic year. All eligible students may apply.

Paula Blank Student Opportunity Fund
The Paula Blank Student Opportunity Fund provides professional development support for English majors studying early modern literature, either through coursework or an independent project. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and grants are made as funds allow.

Newton-Blanchard Prize
Two Newton-Blanchard Prizes are awarded annually, one for fiction and one for non-fiction. The awards are given to student writers in any discipline or major who have "curiosity, imagination, humor and a facility for clearly communicating their thoughts, discoveries and passions.” All undergraduates who are currently enrolled and in good standing may apply. A call for submissions will be sent out each spring.