The Jim Claxton Scholarship Fund

The Jim Claxton Scholarship Fund was initiated during the Spring of 2011 in order to honor Jim and his contributions to the Mid-Atlantic area turfgrass industry and financially support students while pursuing a college degree. Jim worked as a salesman for Newsom Seed from the early 1990’s until soon before his passing on March 20, 2013. He made great contributions to turfgrass related businesses during this period, especially businesses involved in turf production.

The Jim Claxton Scholarship Fund allows for a single, annual $500.00 reward to be issued to a winning applicant prior to the fall college semester. In addition to a possible interview with one or more Maryland Turfgrass Association Board Members, the following criteria will be considered by the MTA board while deciding who will be awarded this scholarship:

• The applicant should be a current high school senior or be enrolled full time in a two year Associate Degree or four year Bachelor Degree college or university program. Proof of college or university enrollment in an Associate Degree or Bachelor Degree program may be requested by the MTA board.
• The applicant should reside in the Mid-Atlantic area or be enrolled in a college or university located in the Mid-Atlantic area.
• The applicant should have earned a high school or current college level GPA of at least 2.5. A transcript should be submitted along with the application.
• Preference may be given to students enrolled in a turfgrass related field.
• Preference may be given to students with experience in turf production and/or turf maintenance.
• An essay of one page or less, using 12 pitch x New Roman or equivalent with a one inch margin. The essay should include how you intend to utilize your Associate or Bachelor degree.
• A current high school and/or college level transcript and up to three letters of recommendation can be submitted with the completed application.

The application form can be accessed by clicking here. Completed applications, along with any essays, letters of recommendation, transcripts, etc. should be postmarked and mailed by 05/31/2020 to:
The Maryland Turfgrass Association
P.O. Box 389
St. Michaels, MD 21663
Attention: The Jim Claxton Scholarship Fund
And/or email to: Vernon@AllStatesTurf.com and/or Harry.kenney@nutrien.com