The HGS Foundation Undergraduate Scholarship Fund: A Short History

The HGS established the Undergraduate Scholarship Fund during Matthew Daura's presidency in 1983-84, with the long-term objective of funding at least one junior/senior level scholarship per year at six local universities.

The organizers of the fund anticipated the award amount to be $1,000.00 per academic year, with $500.00 distributed per semester. HGS gave the first two scholarship awards in December 1984.

These competitive awards are for full-time undergraduates carrying the normal academic load as a bonafide geol- ogy major with a 3.0 cumulative grade point average. Besides scholastic ability, the applicants must be in need and show evidence of high moral, ethical standards and conduct. Eligible students are selected from Rice University, the University of Houston, Lamar University, University of Texas, Texas A&M, Stephen F. Austin University, and, added in 1997-Sam Houston State University. The application process includes completed forms, transcripts of all college work, and three letters of recommendation with at least one being from an instructor or academic advisor during the past year of study.

The driving force that funds the undergraduate scholarships began in February 1985 with the incorporation of the Houston Geological Society Foundation. Its original trustees were Merrill Haas, chairman; Hugh Hardy, vicechairman; Richard Scattolini, secretary; Fred Haston; and Donald Scherer. In July 1985 the IRS determined that the foundation qualified for tax-exempt status as a nonprofit Section 501(c)(3) organization for charitable, scientific, or educational purposes.

To build a financial base, the foundation solicited funds through articles in the HGS Bulletin, inclusions in dues statements, and fund-raising activities during HGS luncheons. The foundation has awarded scholarships annually from funds coming from private donations, corporate donations, interest from the HGS Academic Fund savings account and the foundations own savings account, and also contributions from the Houston Geological Auxiliary.

Accomplishments of the Foundation: