Blatchford Scholars

The Dorothy Blatchford Memorial Scholarship Fund was created in 1984 to honor the life and legacy of the woman who helped give life to the first pow-wow held at the University of Missouri. It is intended to support Native American students who seek to academically excel and who wish to use their education to give back to their tribe and community. Today, the fund is supported by Native American graduates of Mizzou, and others, who are committed to the success of Native Americans through education.


Award Amount and Expectations

scholarship of at least $2,000 a year, renewable for a total of up to four years and, if needed, a waiver of out-of-state tuition. Blatchford Scholars also participate in a research placement for their first year and can renew this placement for subsequent years.


Eligibility Requirements*

The Blatchford award is open to incoming freshmen of Native American descent who can document either tribal membership or provide a CDIB card. Recipients must have a minimum ACT composite score of 28 or an SAT score of 1300 and be admitted to the MU Honors College.

*Qualified applicants may be identified through the George C Brooks Scholarship application pool. Students are encouraged to apply for this award and more information can be found here.


How to Apply

Incoming freshmen who are eligible for this scholarship program can click here for instructions on how to apply. Please note, your MU and Honors College application must be submitted by December 1st, but you don’t have to be admitted by that date.

Instead of the research essay prompt, please address the following question:

  • In what ways will you use your education to further the goals and mission of your tribe and the standing of Native American peoples throughout the United States? (500-750 words)

If you are a finalist in the application process, an Honors College representative will reach out to you and schedule an interview with faculty, staff, and current Blatchford Scholars. These interviews usually occur in February and may include an on-campus component. Once a decision is made notifications will be sent out by March 15th.


Current and Previous Blatchford Scholars

Mio Dykstra | Class of 2025 | Shawnee, OK | International Business 
Kelsi Glover
 | Class of 2024 | Neosho, MO | Plant Science
Sydney Hackwell | Class of 2021 | Miami, OK | Biological Sciences and Psychology


For More Information

If you have any questions regarding this program or application, please contact our Scholarship & Research Coordinator, Ava Drayton, or contact the Honors College at 573-882-3893.