Summer 2024

MAASIN MARCH WITH PRIDE SCHOLARSHIP

Applications Are CLOSED

Deadline: March 15, 2024


MAASIN is proud to have strong queer leadership. We reflected on our time marching and realized participating in the marching arts helped us discover ourselves and gain confidence in our identities. When we compiled a list of scholarships, we noticed there are scholarships for other marginalized groups such as women and performers of color (thanks to our friends at PAISOC) but none for LGBTQIA+ performers. Furthermore, many scholarships have barriers for LGBTQIA+ people such as required letters of recommendation from parents or directors when LGBTQIA+ youth are likely to have strained familial or community relationships.

We have created a scholarship application that eliminates these barriers. Our goal is to fundraise and distribute $2,000 to applicants who demonstrate an understanding of LGBTQIA+ equity, inclusion, and liberation within the marching arts, coupled with financial need in their application. Depending on application quality, we may allocate money in different ways. For example, if there is one particularly outstanding candidate, we may award them $2,000, but if we have multiple equally worthy candidates, we may split the donation pool into multiple scholarships. The more we fundraise, the more we can award, so community support is integral to us. Please consider donating today!


PLEASE NOTE: The March with Pride Scholarship operates on a reimbursement basis. Please keep track of your contract and tuition payment schedule so that we are able to (1) pay your organization directly for the express purpose of tuition, or (2) receive your receipts of payment for dues/other itemized costs (e.g., gas for travel, uniform and makeup costs).

  • How to Apply

    To qualify for a scholarship applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

    Be a member of the LGBTQIA+ community. Closeted community members are welcome to apply. Your identity will be kept confidential by MAASIN unless you choose to disclose your applicant status. Allies are appreciated but not welcome to apply.

    Be contracted to march for the summer season with an ensemble that performs in any division of DCI (e.g., All-Age, SoundSport, Open and World Class). Applicants do not have to have a contract at the time of application but must provide proof of one if offered a scholarship. At this time, we do not have a scholarship for scholastic ensembles.

    The application process has two stages.

    First, applicants must fill out an online application form. A selection committee formed from LGBTQIA+ volunteers from MAASIN's Core Membership will review the applications. Successful stage one applicants will be invited to participate in stage two. All applicants will be informed of their status regardless of advancement to stage two.

    Then, members of the selection committee will interview selected applicants. They will ask the applicants a few more in-depth questions. Then, the selection committee will meet and finalize scholarship winners.

    Applications Closed

  • How to Donate

    Donating is super simple. Follow our regular donation process and make sure you include “March With Pride Scholarship donation” in the message box with your donation. That way we know to set it aside for the scholarship. This way, no matter the amount, 100% of your donation goes to the scholarship. Donors are highly appreciated and donors who choose to display their name can be publicly thanked.

    Please note that we are only able to accept donations via PayPal and Venmo at this time. If you would prefer to donate through another platform or if you have any questions, please contact scholarship@maasin.net and someone will be in touch.

    Donate