Phoenix Chiefs Council offers scholarship Published Dec. 2, 2012 By Tech. Sgt. Susan Gladstein 161st Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs PHOENIX SKY HARBOR AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE -- The 4th annual $500 academic scholarship program through the Phoenix Chief's Council is open to all enlisted members in the Phoenix-area Air National Guard. The deadline to submit applications for this year is Dec. 2, 2012. The scholarship recipient will be notified during the January Unit Training Assembly. Last year's recipient, Staff Sgt. Jay Lamb, 161st Maintenance Group, said he applied for the scholarship to assist with paying for his education at Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. "Applying for the scholarship was one of the small steps I took in order to graduate debt free," Sergeant Lamb said. "Being awarded the Chief's scholarship allowed me to complete my degree debt free while overcoming the challenges that face us all in today's tough economic climate." Sergeant Lamb said completing his degree, which is in Aeronautical Science with a dual minor in Aviation Safety and Management, allowed him to work toward his overall goal of earning a commission as an Air Force pilot. "I just reached the first part of this goal and earned a KC-135 pilot slot with the 128th Air Refueling Wing," Sergeant Lamb said. Sergeant Lamb graduated Magna Cum Laude with additional honors and is currently enrolled in the Masters of Aeronautical Science program specializing in Aviation Safety through Embry Riddle. "The guidance and support of my 161st family has helped me better myself, further my education, and reach my goals, "Sergeant Lamb said. "Programs such as the Chief's Scholarship, PANG Patriots, and other unit programs are what makes the 161st such a unique place to learn, grow and achieve your goals. The assistance provided by my fellow Copperheads has been instrumental in getting me to where I'm at today." $500.00 Scholarship Eligibility Criteria · Must be an enlisted member of the Phoenix area Air National Guard and in good standing · First time applicants must prepare a 250-word essay: "How I will use my education to benefit the military and enhance my professional development." A progress report will be required for subsequent awards · Recipients must be working toward their first baccalaureate degree · Carry a minimum of six hours per semester and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5 · Recipient may attend public or private college, without regard to ethnicity or religious affiliation · Must provide transcripts (photocopy of official transcripts is acceptable) · Must provide copy of current class schedule · Use these funds for tuition or associated fees only · Submit completed application form by deadline date to the following address: Phoenix Chief's Council Scholarship Committee ATTN: CMSgt Jerry Shepherd 3200 East Old Tower Road Phoenix, AZ 85034 · Completed applications may also be submitted to any of the Phoenix area Chiefs. · Application deadline is Sunday of the December UTA with the award notification made during the January UTA. Applications must be postmarked no later than the deadline.