Apply today

The Vision of the Tom McHugh Scholarship for the Arts Award is to nurture the talent and creative culture of our community by providing a qualified graduating senior with a financial award to be used for educational purpose, as they develop a career path in the arts.

The mission is to select a student whose character aligns with the spirit of Tom McHugh, a creative artist, an inspirational storyteller, and a community enthusiast.

The student should demonstrate passion, enthusiasm, and creative engagement whether in the performance (e.g., music, dance), visual (e.g., painting, sculpture), or literary arts (e.g., poetry, creative writing).

It’s not about “high art” or technical perfection; it’s about inspiration and impact.

The goal of this scholarship linked to Tom McHugh’s name, is to encourage a young person at a formative time in their life. This award will affirm that originality, artistic resourcefulness, and community connection still matter to the world of the arts and will, by extension, bring joy to people’s lives.

Grants are given at the discretion of the Scholarship Committee and its decision is final. Checks will be payable to the institute of higher learning that the student will be attending, not to the student.

  1. To have graduated from Kent County High School and be a resident of Kent County.
  2. Official sealed and dated High School Transcript
  3. Completed Portfolio and Letter of Recommendation from Art/Music Teacher or Academic Mentor.
  4. Proof of the Student’s Acceptance Letter (and assigned student number) to the Arts College or Institute of Higher Education they will attend. The Acceptance Letter and Student Number are to be submitted as soon as they are available.
  5. Completed Scholarship Application and required Essay (see Essay Instructions).
  6. Completed Application to be received, or postmarked, by March 1, 2026.

Submit an essay in your own words describing how Kent County has helped shape and inspire your vision, art, and goals as an artist.

List or describe your school activities, community and volunteer activities, and family and work responsibilities. Include, specifically, activities related to the mission of the Tom McHugh Scholarship for the Arts in Kent County, MD.