ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST

ITALIAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

720 HAMLET STREET, COLUMBUS, OHIO 43215-1534

614.294.5319           (FAX) 614.294.4303

February  2008

Dear Principal or Counselor:

During the past 29 years, St. John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church has sponsored the Italian Festival.  One major initiative of the Festival was the establishment of a scholarship fund, now named in honor of its founder, Father Casto Marrapese.

The purpose of the Father Casto Marrapese Scholarship Program is to provide financial assistance and encouragement to a student of Italian descent to pursue a course of study in an accredited two or four year college or university in the U.S.  The scholarship award itself will be paid directly to the institution.  A minimum of ten seniors attending a high school in the Central Ohio area, and who plan to begin their collegiate studies, directly after high school, will each be awarded a minimum of  $1,200 Scholarship.  The scholarship assures the students of financial aid only after the students have been accepted and enrolled in the school of their choice. 

We ask for your assistance to publicize the Marrapese Scholarship throughout your senior class.  Any student who qualifies may apply for the scholarship.  Please duplicate and distribute the enclosed forms as needed.

Please note that the deadline for application is 4 pm, Monday, April 7, 2008 (delivered to St. John the Baptist Italian Catholic Church) and the following documents are required for each applicant:

§  The enclosed Scholarship Application Form completed legibly

§  List of activities (or a resume) which includes Honors, Awards, and Activities from school, church or community organizations (preferably no longer than one page).  The student should include specific information on any activities they have participated in regarding their Italian heritage, including (but not limited to) volunteering at the Italian Festival, taking Italian language/culture classes, or studying in Italy.

§  School Recommendation Form completed, including ACT/SAT test scores.

§  One Personal Recommendation (additional recommendations will not be considered)

§  Transcript of  High School Grades

§  Student’s Personal Essay, no more than two (2) typed, double-spaced pages.  They are asked to answer one question for the two choices listed on the Application form

For additional copies please refer students to this site.  However, the site is not interactive.  Students will merely be able to print the forms as hard copy for application and mailing.

Thank you for your assistance.  Should you have any questions, please contact Dr. Carol Ventresca, Chair of the Scholarship Committee at 614/203-1868 or my office at 614/294-5319.

Sincerely,

Father William A. Metzger

Pastor, St. John the Baptist Catholic Church

Father Casto Marrapese Scholarship Committee