Latest News and Updates

The Carson Scholars Fund is thrilled to announce the induction of five new members into its Hall of Fame. Members of the 2026 class are leaders, mentors, researchers, advocates and students who are using their talents to create meaningful change in their communities and beyond. These Carson Scholar alumni exemplify what it means to be […]

The 310th Ben Carson THINK BIG Reading Room in the country has been established at The Loyola School in Baltimore’s Mt. Vernon neighborhood!  This is the first reading room to be installed in this historic area where another impressive first occurred:  the first monument to honor our country’s first president, George Washington was built in this […]

This year, the Carson Scholars Fund (CSF) is celebrating an exciting anniversary! 2026 marks 30 years of awarding scholarships. In honor of this incredible milestone, we are reconnecting with our alumni to honor and celebrate their accomplishments. Our project 30 Years, 30 Scholars features one scholar from each year since the first scholarships were awarded […]

We are deeply saddened to share the passing of Wes Guckert, a devoted champion of the Carson Scholars Fund community. Wes was a generous and steady presence at the CSF, having served as the Vice President of the Board of Directors and always maintaining a deep commitment to helping others and advancing our mission. His […]

For our 20th Annual National Day of Reading, we wanted to feature a book that embodies the spirit of CSF. This year’s featured title, The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi, aligns perfectly with our mission to help every child recognize their potential. Its message, that challenges aren’t the end, encourages students to keep trying, keep […]

Evan Harasty recently joined the Carson Scholars Fund as an Operations & Finance Assistant, where he works closely with the Executive Director to support organizational operations, financial processes, and day to day projects that help advance the mission of CSF. With a strong interest in data, analysis, and operational efficiency, he is enthusiastic about contributing […]

CSF’s first Readathon was so successful that we just had to bring it back, this time with a twist! Schools competed in groups based on their total number of enrolled students. Group 1 consisted of schools with 500 or fewer students, while Group 2 included schools with more than 500. We also added a fun […]

As we approach the season of giving, we’re reflecting on the power of community, generosity, and imagination to change lives. This year marks 30 years of awarding Carson Scholarships and 25 years of building Ben Carson Reading Rooms—three decades dedicated to nurturing bright minds and sparking a love of learning in students across the nation. […]

For students applying for the Carson Scholarship, at least one recommendation letter is required with the application.  The letter can come from any educator/person who can speak to the following: Student’s leadership ability and impact in the school/classroom Student’s scholastic work ethic, motivation and achievements Applicants must send the request for a letter through the […]

The North Forestville Elementary School is the first school in the history of the Carson Scholars Fund to install 5 Ben Carson Think Big Reading Rooms in one!!  As the students first enter the very roomy “nest” created to nurture young Forestville Falcons, there’s plenty of space for the students (falcons) to gather at tables […]

We are excited to recognize Mia Ottolini, a seven-time Carson Scholar, as she begins her senior year. Throughout her academic journey, Mia has distinguished herself not only through her achievements in the classroom but also through her leadership, athletic involvement, and commitment to serving others. Mia has set her sights on a future in medicine, […]

Meet Andrew Preller, a 2025 Carson Scholar who exemplifies motivation, leadership, and a strong commitment to both academics and service. Andrew is passionate about psychology and has set his sights on one day working in the front office of an NFL team. At school, he is an active leader, contributing to a wide range of […]