Imagine: Deerfield Academy is offering you hundreds or even thousands of dollars to be creative about improving your community, the environment, the political process, public services, or some other aspect of life in your community. How would you propose to use that money? This is your opportunity to present your ideas to us. Be worthy of your heritage, Deerfield students, and advance positive change!
The CSGC offers two types of grants: CSGC Grants and Micro-Grants.
CSGC Grants:
These grants invite Deerfield Academy students to serve others. Offered through the generosity of the Cost, Earle, Mendillo and Workman families, the funds are provided to honor the call in our Mission Statement:
A vibrant, ethical community that embraces diversity, the Academy prepares students for leadership in a rapidly changing world that requires global understanding, environmental stewardship, and dedication to service.
Micro-Grants:
Through the CSGC, students can apply for up to $150 to fund student-generated projects on and off campus during the school year. Proposals for CSGC Micro-Grants are accepted on a rolling basis throughout the academic year.
Where do these grants & awards come from?
Our grants are funded due to the generous support of the Cost, Earle/Mendillo and Workman families, who established endowment funds to support the community and public service endeavors of future generations of Deerfield students. Below is fund info on the different awards and grants available to students.
The Charles Piper Cost Award
This fund was established in memory of Charles Piper Cost ’83, who cared about the world and wanted to make it a better place. The award is given to Deerfield students who demonstrate a sincere desire to work in a volunteer capacity for a significant portion of the summer in a position which best suggests a commitment to help humankind, a quality which will long be remembered as an important ingredient in the personality of Charlie Piper Cost.
Earle/Mendillo Grants
Established by Ralph Earle III, ’75 and Jane Mendillo P’10,’12, this fund supports students interested in public policy, leadership and/or community service opportunities. Projects may involve engagement in on-campus or off-campus activities with preference given to projects focused on working on public policy or with governments (federal, state and local) and community service.
Workman Grants
Established by Peter I. Workman ’56 to honor the memory of his brother, David T. Workman ’50, described as a quiet philanthropist who learned at Deerfield the responsibility of all members of a community have for one another. The Fund builds on a successful Community Service Program at Deerfield Academy by encouraging community service during the summer months and by providing special recognition for students who undertake such projects.
Women’s Initiative Grant
The Deerfield Women’s Initiative Grant was created to help young Deerfield women explore career opportunities over the summer.
Katy Textor Farmer Grant
This grant was established in memory of Katy Textor Farmer, class of 1992 and former Deerfield trustee. Katy was a member of one of the first graduating classes after the Academy’s return to coeducation and set lofty standards of open-mindedness, empathy, inclusion and candor during her time as a student and throughout her decade of service as an influential member of Deerfield’s Board of Trustees. This grant will be awarded to a student based on a proposal for a summer service or leadership project that upholds and/or furthers Deerfield’s core values, as exemplified by Ms. Farmer.