Scholarship Opportunities

he Kansas Recreation and Park Association (KRPA) is dedicated to supporting the education and professional growth of individuals pursuing careers in parks and recreation. KRPA offers three scholarship opportunities:

• Two academic scholarships for students pursuing degrees in parks and recreation or related fields.
• One professional development scholarship for KRPA members seeking financial assistance for training and certification.

Academic Scholarships

KRPA provides two academic scholarships to assist students who are passionate about entering the parks and recreation field.

KRPA Academic Scholarship

This $4,000 merit-based scholarship is awarded to a junior or senior attending a Kansas university or college who intends to pursue a career in parks and recreation, natural resources, outdoor education, or a related field. Selection is based on academic performance, leadership, and commitment to the profession.

Learn more and apply here: www.krpa.org/Academic-Scholarship

Parks and Rec Pathway Scholarship

This $5,000 needs-based scholarship is available to incoming freshmen, sophomores, juniors, or seniors at any college or university. It is designed to support students who demonstrate financial need while pursuing a career in parks and recreation, natural resources, outdoor education, sports management, or a related field.

Learn more and apply here: www.krpa.org/pathway-academic-scholarship

Application Deadline for Both Academic Scholarships: May 1, 2025

Professional Development Scholarship

KRPA Members are encouraged to apply for financial support to attend professional development events such as the KRPA Annual Conference, NRPA Conference, CPRP/CPRE exams, and other regional or national training opportunities. This scholarship is designed to assist KRPA members who have limited financial resources for professional growth.

Larry Heeb Professional Development Scholarship

This scholarship provides financial assistance for registration and travel costs for KRPA members to attend local, regional, or national parks and recreation training events. Selection is based on financial need, professional contributions, and the relevance of the educational opportunity.

Learn more and apply here: Professional Development Scholarship Application

Application Deadlines for the Larry Heeb Scholarship

• NRPA Annual Conference – May 1, 2024
• KRPA Annual Conference – October 11, 2024
• Local Workshops – 30 days prior to the event
• Regional & National Training (Out of State) – 90 days prior to the event

To apply, complete the Professional Development Scholarship Application and submit all required materials by the deadlines listed above.

For any questions, please contact the KRPA Office.