The George N. Boulukos EOCS Scholarship

The George N. Boulukos EOCS Scholarship is an annual award offered by the Eastern Orthodox Committee on Scouting. Each year, the organization awards two scholarships worth $1,000 each to deserving students who exemplify leadership, faith, and service.

The scholarship focuses on recognizing young people who demonstrate love of God and commitment to their Orthodox Christian faith, as shown through involvement in church, scouting, school, and community activities, as well as a short written statement.

In this article, you’ll find a complete overview of the scholarship, eligibility requirements, benefits, how to apply, and practical tips to increase your chances of success.

Scholarship Overview

• Scholarship Provider: Eastern Orthodox Committee on Scouting (EOCS)
• Award Amount: Two scholarships of $1,000 each
• Eligible Applicants: Orthodox Christian high school seniors involved in scouting
• Application Period: January 15 – March 15
• Deadline: March 15
• Notification Date: May 15

Scholarship Benefits

Winning the George N. Boulukos EOCS Scholarship offers several benefits beyond financial support:

• Financial assistance of $1,000 toward college or educational expenses.
• Recognition as an outstanding Orthodox Christian scout.
• Enhanced academic and leadership profile for college applications and resumes.
• Motivation and encouragement to continue faith-based leadership and community service.
• Connection with a network of accomplished Orthodox youth leaders.

Even for applicants who do not win, the application process itself helps build valuable skills in writing, leadership reflection, and documentation.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for the George N. Boulukos EOCS Scholarship, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

• Be a senior in an accredited high school (homeschooled students should contact the scholarship committee for guidance).
• Be an active, registered member of an EOCS-recognized scouting organization such as:
  • Scouting America (Scouts BSA, Exploring, Venturing, Sea Scouts)
  • Girl Scouts of the USA
  • Trail Life USA
  • American Heritage Girls
  • Camp Fire
• Have earned the Eagle Scout Award, Gold Award, or the highest award of another recognized scouting organization (Explorers must also have earned the Eagle Scout Award).
• Be a communicant member of an Eastern Orthodox Christian Church recognized by the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the USA.
• Have earned the EOCS Alpha Omega Religious Award

How to Apply

Applying for the EOCS Scholarship involves completing an online application and submitting supporting documents.

• Complete the official online application form on the EOCS website.
• Prepare and submit required supporting documents (as specified in the application).
• Request recommendation letters from references listed in the application guidelines.
• Ask your references to email their letters directly to the Scholarship Committee Chair, Dr. M. Kotsonis, mekotsonis@gmail.com, by March 15.
• Ensure all application materials are submitted by the deadline.

Important Timeline

Understanding the timeline is crucial for a successful application:

• January 15 – March 15: Complete application and request recommendation letters
• March 15: Application and supporting materials due
• May 15: Scholarship recipients notified

Tips for a Successful Application

Because the George N. Boulukos EOCS Scholarship is competitive, careful preparation can make a significant difference. Here are practical tips to improve your chances:

• Start early: Begin gathering documents and requesting recommendation letters well before the deadline.
• Highlight leadership: Clearly show your leadership roles in scouting, church, school, and community activities.
• Write a compelling statement: Explain your faith, values, achievements, and future goals in a sincere and organized way.
• Choose strong referees: Select mentors who know your character, leadership, and achievements well.
• Follow instructions carefully: Ensure all requirements are met and documents are submitted correctly.
• Proofread everything: Check for grammar, clarity, and completeness before submission.

Purpose of the Scholarship

The scholarship was established to honor George N. Boulukos’s legacy of service and education. Its goal is to empower students who are not only academically gifted but also actively contributing to their communities. It focuses on students who show the potential to become future leaders and change-makers.

Why This Scholarship Matters

The George N. Boulukos EOCS Scholarship stands out because it recognizes not only academic achievement but also faith, leadership, and service. It reflects the values of the Eastern Orthodox community by supporting young people who embody spiritual commitment and community involvement.

For Orthodox Christian students who have dedicated years to scouting and church life, this scholarship is both a reward and an encouragement to continue making a positive impact in society.

Conclusion

The George N. Boulukos EOCS Scholarship, offered by the Eastern Orthodox Committee on Scouting (EOCS) is an opportunity for students who combine academic excellence, leadership, faith, and community service, scholarships that recognize both character and achievement can be life-changing.

This scholarship is designed to support outstanding Orthodox Christian scouts who have demonstrated commitment to their faith, scouting, education, and community. If you are a high-achieving student involved in scouting and church life, this scholarship could be an excellent opportunity to fund your college education.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who can apply for the George N. Boulukos EOCS Scholarship?

• High school seniors who are active Orthodox Christian scouts and meet all listed requirements can apply.

2. How much is the scholarship worth?

• The EOCS awards two scholarships of $1,000 each every year.

3. When is the application deadline?

• All applications and supporting materials must be submitted by March 15.

4. Do homeschooled students qualify?

• Yes, but they must contact the Scholarship Committee Chair for guidance before applying.

5. Are recommendation letters required?

• Yes. References must send recommendation letters directly to the Scholarship Committee Chair.

6. When will winners be announced?

• Recipients are notified on May 15.

7. Can students outside the Orthodox Church apply?

• No. Applicants must be communicant members of an Eastern Orthodox Christian Church.