IVAN A. OLSON SCHOLARSHIP FUND

This fund is under the supervision and control of the North American Rail Shippers Association (NARS). The purpose of the fund is to provide Scholarships for ambitious and worthy individuals who are enrolled students in a college or university transportation school and in need of financial aid. The scholarships are administered solely by the North American Rail Shippers Association. The scholarship is named in honor of Ivan A. Olson, an eminent transportation professional, a past president of NARS and Vice President Transportation, Longview Fibre Company, Longview, Washington.

Who is Eligible?

College students who are in good standing at their respective college or university, currently enrolled in a transportation/logistics program and who are Canadian, Mexican or U.S.A. citizens. Applicants can be either dependent or non-dependent students. Dependent students defined as those who receive support from parents or guardians.

How Do I Apply for the Scholarship?

To apply for the scholarship, an application form must be completed and submitted, along with additional biographical and academic information, to the Awards Committee, North American Rail Shippers Association, 2115 Portsmouth Drive, Richardson, Texas 75082-4839 by May 1. DOWNLOAD APPLICATION

What Do I Need To Include With My Scholarship Application?

The attached applications must be completed. Applications will not be accepted unless completed in full and submitted by May 1. Applicant must sign the application form.

North American Rail Shipper Association Scholarships Require The Following Information:

1. A completed application
2. Academic Transcript or SAT or ACT test results
3. List of extracurricular activities, including work related transportation activity, if any.
4. Personal statement
5. Letter of recommendation from a college/university professor or counselor & letter of personal recommendation

How Are Recipients Selected?

Scholarship recipients will be chosen from the students who make application to the Awards Committee of the North American Rail Shippers Association before the deadline. Scholarship recipients will be selected according to merit on a competitive basis, and with regard to financial need. The Awards Committee will choose the recipients by evaluating each eligible student’s self-description, academic transcript and financial need.

What is the Amount of the Scholarship?

The scholarship stipend is a one-time disbursement of $1,000.00. Funds will be disbursed to college of recipient’s choice.

What are my Obligations and Responsibilities if I am selected?

Scholarship recipients are completely responsible for making admission arrangements and fulfilling all requirements of the school selected, which must be a college or university in the Canada, Mexico or the United States, which is fully accredited by its regional accrediting commission on higher education. The recipient must enter college as a student in the Spring term following selection and must pursue a course of study leading to one of the traditional baccalaureate/graduate degrees in transportation. Scholarship recipients are expected to make normal academic progress from year to year and must remain in good academic and disciplinary standing. While honor grades are not required, scholarship recipients have a responsibility to do quality work in college.

Who handles Scholarship procedures?

The North American Rail Shippers Association (NARS) handles all phases of the process, including selection of recipients and payment of stipends. NARS Officers comprise the Awards (Selection) Committee.

Who can answer Scholarship questions?

You may contact the Awards Coordinator, North American Rail Shippers Association, 972-690-4740 or email, NARS@railshippers.com.