Next Generation Naturalists Scholarship Contest
Tell us about your experiences in nature for the chance to win a $1,000 academic scholarship.
Who can apply: Senior high school students residing in Indiana
Scholarship submission deadline: July 12, 11:59 p.m.
Three finalists notified: July 24
Finalists’ interviews: Scheduled July 27-Aug. 6
Winner notified by email: Aug. 7
Funded by: Friends of the Limberlost
From hilly vistas and starry night skies to pond life and mossy logs, the natural world has inspired feelings of wonder, comfort, fear and awe in generations of Hoosiers. Many authors have captured these experiences in writing, perhaps most famously Gene Stratton-Porter, whose works made the Limberlost Swamp famous worldwide over a century ago and have continued to inspire conservation and restoration efforts today.
Current high school seniors who are Indiana residents will be considered for a $1,000 scholarship, funded by the Friends of the Limberlost. To enter, submit an essay, poem or other written work about an experience you have had in nature, the feelings it inspired in you, and how it affected your perception of the world around you. Your submission should be a maximum of 750 words. Generative AI may not be used for any part of your submission.
Three finalists will be asked to schedule a 15-minute remote interview to discuss their submitted writing, background, college and career goals and academic achievements. The scholarship awardee will also be asked to attend a Friends of the Limberlost meeting (virtually if necessary) to receive recognition.
To enter, please complete the form below. You’ll be required to include your written submission (pdf or Word doc) and proof of enrollment in a college or university for the 2026-27 school year.
Questions? Contact Rachel at Limberlost State Historic Site at [email protected].