Welcome and thank you for your interest in the Ronald H. Rappaport Scholar Fund.
Created in partnership with the Rappaport family, this new scholarship honors Ron Rappaport’s exceptional leadership and lifelong commitment to civic life on Martha’s Vineyard. Ron was a distinguished attorney who served as municipal counsel for five Island towns and the Martha's Vineyard Land Bank, represented the Island as a Steamship Authority governor for more than seven years, and sat on numerous boards and committees. Born and raised in Oak Bluffs, Ron understood the Vineyard's unique character and felt a deep responsibility for improving the lives of its families while protecting the Island from unwanted changes. His involvement in community affairs was broad ranging, from land use and environmental issues to health care, social services and youth sports. Frequently sought after for advice and counsel, he always put the welfare of the Island above other considerations. At the time of his death in 2024, he chaired the board of the Martha’s Vineyard Bank as well as its charitable foundation, which he helped to found.
Who is eligible to apply?
To be considered for the Ronald H. Rappaport Scholar award, you must meet all of the following qualifications:
- Be accepted or enrolled, as of January 2026, in a bachelor's, master's, or other graduate program, or be returning to school to begin such a program. Undergraduate applicants must be in their junior or senior year.
- Have demonstrated leadership skills and experience, with plans for a career in service to the community.
In addition to the requirements above, preference is given to those who demonstrate strong ties to Martha's Vineyard by satisfying one or more of the following:
- Raised on Martha's Vineyard
- Strong family ties to Martha's Vineyard
- Significant Island-based work or volunteer experience
- Interest in returning to and contributing to Martha's Vineyard after completing education
When is the application due?
Applications must be completed and submitted by 11:59pm on Thursday, March 19, 2026. All letters of recommendation, transcripts, and other application materials must also be submitted by this deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. There are no exceptions to this deadline, including for technical difficulties. Please plan accordingly.
After the application due date, submitted applications will be reviewed and evaluated. Semifinalists will be determined after this date. Once selected, semifinalists will be contacted directly and will be invited to interview with a selection committee.
What is required with the application?
- A current transcript in PDF format must be uploaded with each application. If a student is not currently enrolled in a program, a transcript from their most recent previous program should be uploaded.
- A minimum of two letters of recommendation are also required, which must be uploaded with the application in PDF format. A third letter of recommendation or other supporting materials may optionally be provided but are in no way expected. The applicant is responsible for all communication with the recommender and is responsible for the recommendation upload.
- An up-to-date resume, which includes all educational and work experience.
- Other supporting materials may optionally be provided but are in no way expected.
All documents submitted with the application must be in PDF format. If a document is submitted in a format other than PDF, it will not be considered as part of the application.
What if I have questions?
At any point in your application, if you need more information or have questions, you may save your progress to resume later. If you need assistance, please contact Jennifer Ray, Community Engagement Director at foundation@mvbank.com.
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