Berrien Community Foundation is now accepting applications for the Wood Family Summer Arts Scholarship, which provides financial assistance to high school students pursuing summer opportunities in the arts. Applications are due April 30, 2026.
Established by Jill and Doug Wood, the scholarship reflects their belief that arts education is critical to educational, social and personal growth.
Two scholarships of up to $1,500 each will be awarded to help students attend summer camps, intensives or programs in disciplines such as instrumental and vocal music; dance; visual arts such as painting, sculpting and photography; and theater arts such as acting, directing and costume design. For particularly expensive or prestigious programs, both scholarships may be awarded to one individual. Eligible applicants are Berrien County students entering grades 9-12 in Fall 2026.
Music has played a meaningful role in the Wood family across generations, dating back to at least the 1930s when Doug’s grandfather was an entertainer on cruise ships. Wanting other students to experience the joy of the arts, the Wood family partnered with Berrien Community Foundation to help students afford valuable summer programs.
“The Wood family turned a personal love of music into a gift that will open doors for local students,” said Berrien Community Foundation President Lisa Cripps‑Downey. “We love helping people find meaningful ways to support the community they care about. Every act of giving — big or small — makes a difference.”
Cole Dalton, a Lakeshore High School student, received the inaugural Wood Family Summer Arts Scholarship last year.
“Being able to experience the bassoon intensive at Interlochen was a life-changing experience,” said Dalton. “The Wood Family Summer Arts Scholarship played a tremendous role in enabling me to attend Interlochen … I will be forever grateful for receiving this prestigious scholarship, for it has played an enormous role in paving my path for artistic success.”
For more information or to apply, visit www.berriencommunity.org/WoodFamilyArtsScholarship.
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