FA&S- CSU Systemwide- The Captain’s Foundation Scholarship for Continuing Avalon High School Alumni Scholarship

The Captain’s Foundation was established by Cap Perkins in 1998 to support educational and community opportunities for Avalon youth. Cap, a Navy diver who came to Avalon after World War II, built a life on Catalina Island through hard work and perseverance. Known for his generosity, he often provided quiet financial help to those in need and supported local students with college expenses. Before his passing in 2012, Cap ensured his legacy of community giving would continue through The Captain’s Foundation, which provided more than $1 million in scholarships and support to community organizations. A scholarship endowment was created in 2025 to continue the legacy of Cap Perkins to support Avalon High School graduates pursuing higher education at CSU campuses.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be self-identified as a first-generation (first in their family) college student
• Applicants must be enrolled at a CSU Campus
• Applicants must demonstrate financial need as determined by the campus financial aid office.

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.