Give to the Gaustad Memorial LGBTQIA+ Endowed Scholarship

Professor Sam Gaustad was an excellent and beloved professor and was passionate about inclusivity and student access.  In 2012, he created this LGBTQIA+ scholarship in recognition of the struggles such students face in disproportionately high numbers. He taught humanities, musical direction and sound design at Seminole State College and was passionate about art, knowledge, diversity and justice. Sam recruited colleagues and friends to this project as he wanted to give LGBTQIA+ students a meaningful gesture of support and validation.

Seminole State College is proud to be part of a growing number of American colleges and universities to offer a scholarship for LGBTQIA+ students. Students qualify for consideration by composing a short essay to describe the impact of their sexuality and/or gender identity on their lives. Funds from the scholarship help cover tuition or books with the goal of promoting students’ success. The LGBTQIA+ community has a long history of facing adversity and discrimination. Statistics reflect this as LGBTQIA+ populations are more likely to experience sexual assault and harassment, depression, substance abuse, attempted suicide, homelessness and fear for their physical safety. All of these can make it harder for such students to reach college and succeed.  In addition, we wish to honor the memory of Sam Gaustad, his excellence as a professor, and his passion for providing support for LGBTQIA+ students at Seminole State College.

The Gaustad Memorial LGBTQIA+ Endowed Scholarship provides financial assistance to a Seminole State student seeking a degree or certification and who has a minimum GPA of 2.5. Preference will be given to student who demonstrate financial need and who identify as LGBTQIA+.