Continuing
Tom's Legacy

In his memory, The Tom McHugh Scholarship/Award for the Arts will carry on his work by nurturing young talent springing up from within the community.

Young Artists, Writers & Musicians

The Scholarship will help cultivate the next Tom McHugh – someone who will elevate our society through a life dedicated to the arts and personal creativity.

The Scholarship will live on well beyond any of us. It is administered by the Mid-Shore Community Foundation (MSCF), a non-profit 501(c)(3). MSCF adheres to the highest standard of philanthropy—fulfilling the will of donors through adherence to established criteria and a rigorous, objective review of applicants. MSCF is equipped to maintain a fund in perpetuity with defined guidelines and dedicated volunteers and staff.

eligibilty

selection criteria

Students will be selected based on the recommendation of an art teacher or similar academic mentor, a sample of their art (submitted by photograph or video), and a one-page essay describing how Kent County has helped shape and inspire their vision and art, as well as their goals as an artist.

Alternate Use of Funds

If no student applies or is deemed eligible, the funds, for the current scholarship year only, may be used to directly support arts programming in the Kent County Public School system—including materials, personnel, special events such as visiting artists, and more. Programs seeking funding must provide a brief request outlining the need, how the funds will be used, and the expected benefit to students.

about tom mchugh

Tom McHugh’s life’s work was not just as an artist, but as a teacher who was deeply committed to the culture of Kent County.

Tom’s work affected so many in our community:

  • Founder of The MainStay
  • Professor at both Vassar College and Washington College
  • Supporter of the arts in Kent County Public Schools
  • Organizer of international music exchanges (Ireland and Hungary)

Tom cultivated a love of the arts, culture, and ideas. From his songs and storytelling about the Chester River and illustrations of children’s poems to the famous Jazz artists he brought to The MainStay – his work and dedication to the arts enhanced our part of the world with a much larger vision.

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