A BRIEF HISTORY OF JAMES BAIRD
James Baird was an American civil engineer best known for his work on the Lincoln Memorial, the Flatiron Structure, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and many other projects. He and his wife relocated to Tucson, Az, in 1936, and lived there for the rest of their lives. As part of his charitable work in Tucson, he established the Baird Scholarship, which was at the time the largest scholarship gift ever made to the University of Arizona. He was awarded an honorary in engineering by the University in 1951. James died in 1953 aged 79 and is buried in Oakwood Memorial in Chicago, Illinois, in a family cemetery. The Baird Foundation was founded in 1951 to manage the continuation of the James Baird Foundation through the community of Baird Scholars.
THE BAIRD SCHOLARSHIP
The Baird Foundation awards four-year scholarships to outstanding students who graduate from Arizona high schools every year. This select bunch of students will join the Baird Scholars community at the University of Arizona as well as the Honors Program. This coveted honor is unique to the Honors College and the University of Arizona. Apply also for THE CGA SCHOLARSHIP
In addition to the Baird Foundation’s cash gift of $12,500 per year, the University of Arizona would provide a scholarship offer that includes mandatory student tuition and the Honors College fee, which is presently valued at around $12,900 per year. These two award categories would take the place of any resident Wildcat Tuition prize made available to the winner. The total value of two awards over four years is about $100,000. Baird Scholars also participate in community-building activities throughout the year.
HOW TO APPLY FOR THE BAIRD SCHOLARSHIP
Any student who fits the application standards listed below is eligible to apply; however, students must already be enrolled at the University of Arizona. There will be no exceptions to this rule, therefore applicants wishing to apply for the Baird Scholarship should submit their UA applications as soon as possible.
- 2 letters of reference (from a teacher, advisor, or community leader who is not a family member or friend)
- The Baird Scholarship does not require SAT or ACT scores.
- Applicants must: be admitted to the University of Arizona for Fall 2022;
- Applicants must be Arizona settlers who have attended an Arizona high school for at least two years prior to admission to the University;
- Applicants must be U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents owner with a 3.75 or greater total with a high school GPA
The Baird Foundation provides a $12,500 annual scholarship. Furthermore, the University of Arizona provides a complete grant of $12,500, which covers all required student costs, including Honors College tuition.
CONCERNING THE PROGRAM
Applicants who qualify for this scholarship may apply for funds for any educational purpose, including, but not limited to, the following:
• College/University Payment & Registration Fees
• Trade School Payment & Registration Fees
• Tutoring Fees
• Book Fees
Applicants must provide King’s Home residency information as well as evidence of unmet financial need.
Applicants must submit an online application along with an autobiographical narrative to be considered for a scholarship grant. The Baird Scholarship Program Panel will thereafter conduct interviews with all finalists.
Scholarships are given under the authority of the Baird Scholarship Program based on needs and funds.
Students attending the University of Arizona are eligible for the Baird scholarship, which provides a full-tuition award covering all compulsory student expenses as well as the Honors College cost
