FA&S - CSU Systemwide - Robert M. O'dell Scholarship

The California Society of Municipal Finance Officers (CSMFO) established the Robert M. Odell endowed scholarship fund in April 1987 to honor the former city treasurer of Los Angeles. The scholarships are awarded on an alternating basis between northern and southern geographic regions of California to the 17 campuses offering degree programs in public administration.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Applicants must be in a degree program in public administration.
• Applicants must be in good standing with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
• Applicants must be currently enrolled as a full-time, upper-division undergraduate or graduate student in public administration and must remain a full-time student in good standing during the academic year in which the award is received.
• Applicants may not be a previous recipient of this award.

Strong consideration will be given to an applicant who is also:

• A public administration major specializing in finance
• A first-generation college student

Personal Statement (300 word max count for each):

1. What experience has impacted your personal growth?
2. Tell us about a time you failed. What did you learn from that experience?
3. Why are you pursuing your major? How does it relate to your career aspirations?
4. Provide an example of service beyond the classroom (i.e., have you taken on significant family obligations, helped others in a specific way, been involved in political action, worked/volunteered/interned at a particular organization, etc.).Why is this example significant to you?

This scholarship opportunity involves a nomination process. The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships will forward selected nominees to the CSU Foundation. The CSU Foundation will make the final determination regarding chosen recipients. Please be sure to check your CPP email for follow up requirements.

The scholarship recipients will be invited by the California Society of Municipal Finance Officers to attend their annual professional conference. This conference is an opportunity for students to learn about job opportunities in the field of municipal finance. More information to follow.

To begin the application process, please complete the General Application first, then proceed to the CSU Systemwide application to complete the personal statement.