Fall 2026 RI SHRM Foundation Scholarship
Invest in your growth & strengthen our profession.
The Fall 2026 RI SHRM Foundation Scholarship provides financial support for students and professionals pursuing educational courses, RI SHRM programs, and other professional development opportunities.
Two recipients will each receive a $500 scholarship award to support their education or professional development. Recipients will be announced by October 2026.
We believe that the entire HR community benefits when our people learn, connect, and grow. This scholarship helps make those opportunities possible through meaningful learning, networking, and community-building experiences that strengthen careers and the HR profession as a whole.
Applications are open... Apply today!
Applications are due by September 18, 2026
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include students, HR professionals, people leaders, and individuals working or studying in Human Resources or related fields who demonstrate a commitment to growing their knowledge, skills, and impact.
Priority may be given to applicants who demonstrate financial need, are early in their careers, are transitioning into HR, or are advancing inclusive and equitable workplace practices.
Scoring Criteria--What Reviewers Will ConsiderMaximum Score: 100 points
1. Purpose & Motivation (20 pts)
Clearly explains why the applicant is pursuing the educational or professional-development opportunity and why it is meaningful at this stage of their career or education.
2. Career & Professional Development Goals (20 pts)
Demonstrates clear short- and/or long-term goals and explains how the opportunity will advance the applicant's knowledge, skills, career, or effectiveness in HR or a related field.
3. Impact & Application of Learning (20 pts)
Describes how the applicant intends to apply what they learn to contribute to their workplace, the HR profession, their community, or the broader world of work.
4. Commitment to Growth & the HR Profession (15 pts)
Demonstrates a meaningful commitment to continuous learning, professional growth, networking, community-building, or strengthening the HR profession.
5. Access & Financial Considerations (15 pts)
Clearly explains how the scholarship would support access to the opportunity, including relevant financial need or other barriers to participation.
6. Inclusive & Equitable Workplace Impact (10 pts)
Demonstrates an interest in or commitment to contributing to inclusive, equitable, respectful, and effective workplaces.
Total = 100 pts
Fair & Equitable Review
Every application will be evaluated fairly and consistently using the same standardized scoring rubric and selection criteria. Applications will be reviewed by a panel of RI SHRM Foundation volunteers, with scholarship decisions based on the merits of each application.
We are committed to an equitable selection process. Applicants will not receive preferential or unfavorable treatment based on age, disability, affiliation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.