Submitted by Jenna Harrison
(March 18, 2026) — The Rockfall Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2026 Virginia R. Rollefson Environmental Leadership Scholarship, a $1,000 award recognizing a high school senior who has demonstrated exceptional leadership in environmental stewardship within the Lower Connecticut River Valley.
Established in 2018, the scholarship honors students who have successfully carried out a program, project, or activity that advances environmental preservation, conservation, restoration, or environmental education. The award celebrates young leaders who are actively making a positive environmental impact in their communities.
Eligible applicants must be high school seniors residing in one of the following towns: Haddam, Killingworth, East Haddam, Chester, Clinton, Cromwell, Deep River, Durham, East Hampton, Essex, Lyme, Middlefield, Middletown, Old Lyme, Old Saybrook, Portland or Westbrook. The scholarship must be used for qualified educational expenses including tuition, books, room and board, or academic supplies. Employees, trustees, committee members of The Rockfall Foundation, and their immediate family members are not eligible to apply. Scholarship recipients will be selected based on several criteria, including:
- Demonstrated leadership and initiative in promoting conservation, preservation, restoration or environmental education.
- Successful participation or implementation of a project, program or activity benefiting environmental stewardship.
- A written recommendation from a teacher or mentor familiar with the applicant’s work.
- A personal interview to assess the applicant’s knowledge of their project and their motivation and character.
The scholarship is named in honor of Virginia R. “Ginny” Rollefson, former Executive Director of The Rockfall Foundation. Rollefson served the organization for 24 years before retiring in 2010, and was widely known for her passion for environmental protection and her commitment to inspiring young people to engage in their communities. The scholarship continues her legacy by recognizing students who demonstrate the same dedication to environmental leadership.
Applications must be submitted by March 26, 2026 at 12:00 Noon.
Students interested in applying can learn more and download the 2026 application at:
For additional information about the scholarship or The Rockfall Foundation’s environmental programs, please visit www.rockfallfoundation.org or email jenna@rockfallfoundation.org.
