Category: Scholars

The Reading Road Trip Has Begun! This summer, the CSF community is taking on our second annual summer reading challenge with a road-trip twist! Your 2026 Reading Road Trip Map lists 12 reading categories, each one a different “stop” on your summer travels: a classic you’ve been meaning to read, a book set in another […]

Dear CSF Community, As we reflect on the 2026 scholarship season, we’re filled with gratitude for everyone who took part in this momentous year.  The Carson Scholars Program would not be possible without the support of donors, educators, parents, volunteers and, most importantly, Carson Scholars – both new and longtime scholars. A record number of […]

To spark inspiration and a deeper connection across the Carson Scholar community, the CSF presented all scholars with the opportunity to showcase their research and/or service projects at their regional banquet this spring. 44 impressive scholars stepped into the spotlight, sharing the hard work they have put into passion projects ranging from building sensory-rich environments […]

Every Carson Scholar is reaching toward something: a career they’re curious about, a goal just out of reach, a decision they don’t know how to make. The CSF Mentorship Program pairs them with a mentor who listens, asks the right questions, and helps map the way forward. What this program looks like is different for […]

The Patterson HBCU Scholarship began in 2024 as a collaborative effort between world-renowned author James Patterson and the Carson Scholars Fund (CSF). Through Mr. Patterson’s generosity and shared commitment to education, together he and the CSF created a unique opportunity for Carson Scholars attending a Historically Black College or University (HBCU), in which a $5,000 […]

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 […]

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 […]

We are proud to recognize Zachary Chait, a seven-time Carson Scholar. Zachary aspires to a career in finance—pursuing investment banking or personal financial advising—where he can combine his love of numbers with his passion for working with others. His strong academic drive is matched by his leadership on and off the field. As captain of […]

As the new school year begins, we’re thrilled to shine a spotlight on one of our remarkable scholars: Catelyne Holcomb, a seven-time Carson Scholar. Catelyne has demonstrated an incredible commitment to both academics and leadership throughout her journey. With aspirations to pursue a career in business—particularly in finance and accounting—she is already building the skills […]

2026 marks the CSF’s 30th anniversary of awarding scholarships to students just like you!  To mark this monumental occasion, we’ve set a goal to recognize the largest group of recognized scholars to date!  To do this, we need your help! Take a few minutes to complete the 2026 Carson Scholar recognition application that you’ll receive […]

Back to school means back to scholarship season for us at the CSF!  As your school year begins, we hope that you’ll consider nominating a student for the 2026 Carson Scholarship! This is a big year for us – we’re celebrating our 30th anniversary of awarding scholarships and have big goals that we hope to […]