Michigan Townships Association offers scholarship to future local leaders

The Robert R. Robinson Scholarship, awarded annually by the Michigan Townships Association (MTA), seeks to offer financial assistance to students aspiring to leadership roles in their community.

The scholarship is designed to help Michigan students who are preparing for a career in public administration. Applicants must be a junior, senior or graduate student in a Michigan college or university.

The scholarship is awarded on a competitive basis, and applicants are considered on several factors including academic achievement, community involvement and commitment to local government administration. Requirements include: a letter of recommendation from a professor or instructor; a copy of a resolution of support from an MTA-member township board in good standing; and a short essay on an important issue facing local government.

All applications are due by July 15, 2020.

As MTA’s second executive director, Robert R. Robinson was dedicated to townships and to furthering the form of government closest to the people.

MTA established a memorial scholarship in Robinson's honor after his death in 1987. Robinson dedicated much of his life to township government.

In addition to his eight years as Association executive director, he served for six years as MTA’s legislative director, and was a cofounder and board member of the National Association of Towns and Townships, including two years as president.

He spent a decade as Meridian Charter Township supervisor before joining MTA in 1969.

Awarding this endowment each year in his name helps to ensure that Michigan’s future local leaders continue to value and protect township government and the Michigan residents it serves.

Township officials and MTA county chapters can help ensure the educational pursuits of tomorrow’s township leaders by making a donation to support the scholarship fund.

As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, all contributions are tax deductible. Checks may be sent, payable to The Robert R. Robinson Memorial Scholarship Fund, to: Michigan Townships Association, PO Box 80078, Lansing, MI 48908-0078.

More information is available online at www.michigantownships.org/scholarship.asp, or by contacting MTA at (517) 321-6467.