PGMS Scholarships
Scholarship Sponsored by Professional Grounds Management Society
Introduction
Each year the PGMS Scholarship Committee grants financial awards to students pursuing studies in horticulture or closely related disciplines. Applicants must be enrolled at least as first-year college students or may be recent high school graduates (graduation must have occurred within the current calendar year).
Award benefits
The top scholarship recipient will be invited to attend the School of Grounds Management Conference. PGMS will cover the conference registration fee for that recipient and provide a travel stipend for scholarship winners.
Eligibility
- Currently studying horticulture or a related field, or a high school graduate from the current calendar year preparing to begin college.
- Must have a sponsor who is a current PGMS member.
Application requirements
Applicants are required to submit:
- A cover letter
- A current resume
- An official or current college transcript
- Two letters of reference
About PGMS membership (sponsor background)
Most PGMS members are institutional grounds managers and work for a wide range of organizations, including but not limited to colleges and universities, municipalities, parks and recreation departments, office parks, multi-family housing complexes, hotels and motels, cemeteries, theme parks, independent landscape contractors, as well as students, educators, and supplier members.
What the selection committee values
The committee looks for applicants who demonstrate:
- Strong academic performance
- Employment history or current work experience in the green industry
- Active participation in industry-related apprentice or professional organizations (examples: FFA, 4-H, state or county programs)
- Engagement in civic projects and community outreach
- Commitment to personal development (courses or training) and involvement in sports, clubs, or other extracurricular activities
If you meet these criteria and can secure a PGMS member sponsor, you are encouraged to apply.