Are you a queer student in Florida who's changing your community for the better? Whether you're feeding neighbors, mentoring youth, organizing Pride events, or just showing up to help your chosen fam — this scholarship is for you.

The Melissa St. John Scholarship Fund will award $1,000 to an LGBTQ+ student (regardless of major) who demonstrates a strong commitment to community service and giving back — with bonus points for LGBTQ-focused efforts.

Applications are due by Dec. 1. Apply here.

Launched by OutSFL, the Melissa St. John Scholarship honors the legacy of one of South Florida’s most beloved LGBTQ advocates. This scholarship supports queer students in Florida who are making a difference through community service — especially those working within the LGBTQ+ community.

Criteria

You must:

• Identify as LGBTQIA+
• Be enrolled or planning to enroll in any Florida college, university, or community college (two-year or four-year)
• Show meaningful commitment to community service, activism, or volunteer work

➕ Preference will be given to applicants whose service directly impacts the LGBTQ+ community and/or who live in South Florida.

All majors are welcome. Whether you’re studying art, science, social work, welding, or theater — we care about what you do for your community.

Who Can Apply

• Current or incoming undergraduate students enrolled in a Florida college, university, or community college
• Current or incoming graduate students in Florida
• Must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or DACA recipient
• Must live in Florida or be planning to move here for school

How to Apply

A complete application package includes:

• A one-page résumé
• A short essay (500–750 words) that includes:
  • The community service work you’ve done
  • Why it matters to you
  • How you hope to continue giving back — whether through your future career, volunteer work, or a passion project you dream of starting
• Proof of enrollment or acceptance at a Florida institution

Optional but encouraged:

• 1–2 photos, links, flyers, or articles related to your service work
• Up to three letters of recommendation. These can help us better understand your impact — but your voice and story matter most.

Terms & Restrictions

• The scholarship will be paid directly to the school or student upon verification of enrollment.
• Funds must be used during the 2026 academic year.
• The scholarship is not applicable to study-abroad semesters.
• If the recipient cannot complete the academic year due to extenuating circumstances, funds may need to be returned or redirected.
• Recipients must be willing to be featured in Out South Florida.