James F. Swift Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Scranton Area Community Foundation
Overview
The Scranton Area Community Foundation administers the James F. Swift Scholarship to support students graduating from high schools in Lackawanna County who intend to pursue postsecondary education. Each year up to 20 recipients are chosen to receive a $6,000 award for full‑time study at an accredited college or university of their choosing.
Duration and Renewal
The scholarship is initially awarded for one year and may be renewed so that a student can receive funding for up to four academic years total (the initial award plus up to three renewals), or until the completion of a degree, whichever occurs first. Continued eligibility for renewal requires full‑time enrollment and satisfactory academic progress as determined by the student’s school.
Transfer from Two‑Year to Four‑Year Programs
Students who begin at a two‑year institution and plan to transfer into a four‑year college (including four‑year institutions located outside Lackawanna County) may also qualify for renewals. Such renewals are contingent on maintaining full‑time status and demonstrating satisfactory academic performance, as above, and can extend the award for up to three additional years where appropriate.
Impact and History
Since 2008 the James F. Swift Scholarship Fund has distributed more than $5.5 million, helping 360 students from the local area. The fund was established in 2002 when James F. Swift made a gift to the Scranton Area Community Foundation. Following Mr. Swift’s passing in 2006, a substantial bequest from his estate further endowed the scholarship, enabling many more Lackawanna County students to pursue their educational and career goals.