Wakefield Country Day School recognizes and encourages strong academic leadership and strong character traits in its students. In honor of 2Lt. Leonard M. Cowherd III, a 1999 graduate of Wakefield Country Day School, who went on to West Point and honorably served his country in Operation Iraqi Freedom, WCDS offers one full tuition paid scholarship per year for a high school student who exemplifies the attributes Army 2Lt. Leonard Cowherd III embodied. Cowherd was killed on May 16, 2004 by sniper fire while serving his country in Iraq. He was just 22 years old.
As a high school student and young leader at WCDS, 2Lt. Cowherd consistently demonstrated hard work,
commitment, ethical behavior, and academic achievement. He was a first honors student who played a variety of sports, appeared in annual school plays, and served as Vice President of the Student Government and Class Salutatorian his senior year. The intent of this scholarship is to identify individuals who exemplify the character traits exhibited by 2Lt. Cowherd and, thereby, do honor to themselves and his memory.
This need-based scholarship covers the tuition expenses of up to 4 years of high school, and is renewable each year, provided the student continues to demonstrate academic and moral excellence. Specifically, students must maintain at least a B average throughout each academic year, and perform a minimum of 20 hours of community service each year. Criteria for consideration include: academic achievements, special talents, commitment to service, leadership, and strong moral character.
All aspects of the Application for Admission (academic transcripts, recommendations, essay and interviews) will be considered when evaluating the scholarship application.
Selection will be based on the following:
- a one page essay written and submitted by the applicant addressing how the applicant sees him/herself in relation to the mission of the school— which includes character development, courtesy and a strong sense of honor— and to Cowherd himself; information regarding
involvement in school (activities, sports, fine arts, clubs) as well as any volunteer or community activities (Attach essay below or submit to Admissions Office) - two letters of recommendation (one from a teacher and one other from someone in the community who knows you well, such as a pastor, community leader, or employer). These should be attached to the application. (Attach recommendation letters below or submit to Admissions Office)
- In addition, the applicant will be expected to spend a day at WCDS and interview with the scholarship committee.