Ronald F. Budzik Scholarship

This scholarship was created in memory of Ronald Budzik in 2025. Ron was a devoted spouse, father and grandfather and a man whose quiet strength, thoughtful leadership and steadfast commitment left an indelible mark on the Dayton community and beyond. Ron was more than a civic leader. He was a servant, a builder and a bridge, someone who understood that progress is measured not just in buildings and policies but in the opportunities and inclusion they create for people. Through all of this Ron remained a man of humility, a man of kindness and a man of purpose. He believed deeply in education, in fairness, in opportunity and in the power of a community united. He gave of himself not for applause, but for results—for the lives changed, the doors opened, the communities strengthened.

Applicants must:

• be a graduating senior from the Dayton Early College Academy,
• be accepted to attend Central State University, Sinclair Community College, the University of Dayton or Wright State University,
• demonstrate academic excellence in academically challenging courses (i.e., must have completed at least nine hours of college credits) and have a college-ready SAT or ACT score (or equivalent score on another recognized college admission test),
• demonstrate effective communication skills (i.e., must complete all the requisite Gateway requirements that relate to effective communication),
• demonstrate involvement in leadership roles in school clubs or events, sports teams or community organizations (i.e., must complete all the requisite Gateway leadership requirements),
• demonstrate significant and sustained involvement in community service, showing a commitment to making a positive impact outside of school (i.e., must complete all the requisite Gateway community service requirements),
• demonstrate financial need and have completed the FAFSA, and
• have a clearly defined career goal.

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