Students
The Bess Wallace Truman Scholarship was created by Junior Service League of Independence to honor the memory of First Lady of the United States, Bess Wallace Truman, who was active in many community service organizations in Independence.
Mrs. Truman’s daughter, Margaret Truman Daniel, said of her mother:
“She is a woman of tremendous character, which the public may sense, but in addition, she is a warmhearted, kind lady with a robust sense of humor, a merry twinkling wit and a tremendous capacity for enjoying life.”
Junior Service League of Independence trains volunteers for leadership roles, initiates service in response to community needs and offers women opportunities for personal growth.
Eligibility:
- Must be a current resident of Independence, Missouri;
- Must be a female graduating high school senior attending public, private or home school;
- Must be pursuing an undergraduate degree at any accredited college or university;
- Must have demonstrated academic merit with a minimum GPA of 2.5, community service experience, school involvement and financial need;
- Must NOT be related to a Junior Service League member at the time of initial application. Such restrictions do not apply to renewal applications.
Amount:
Up to $2,500 per academic year.
Renewable:
Yes, this scholarship can be renewed for three additional years of funding at $1,000 per academic year. A renewal application must be submitted with proof of continuing college enrollment, continuing community service and a minimum college GPA of 2.5.
Deadline:
The General Application for the 2026-2027 cycle will be available December 1, 2025 and due February 16, 2026 (including any requirements listed below).
Requirements:
- Transcripts showing grades from Fall Semester 2025. Any applications submitted with transcripts omitting Fall Semester 2025 will not be considered.
- Personal essay of 500 words maximum, consider your personal qualities and goals for the future. Reflect and elaborate on how your life mirrors some aspect of Bess Wallace Truman's life - her interests, personal qualities, or achievements.
- Personal reference from a supervisor of a school activity in which you participated.
- Personal reference from a supervisor of a community service activity in which you participated.
- A third personal reference, if you choose.
Apply: