Laguna Beach Students Can Apply For Festival Of Arts Scholarships

LAGUNA BEACH, CA — Are you or a loved one a young rising artist in Laguna Beach? The Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach's applications for 2022-2023 scholarships are now open to local students, the nonprofit announced Friday.

The first Festival of Arts scholarship was awarded 65 years ago, FOA Board Secretary and Scholarship Chair Pat Kollenda said in a statement. Since then, the impact of the program has made its mark on young rising artists in Laguna Beach.

The Festival of Arts scholarship program supports young artists by giving students the resources to pursue college studies in the arts. The four-year, highly competitive scholarships are awarded to students who excel in film, performing arts (dance, music and theatre arts- including performance and production), visual arts and writing.

Scholarship awards begin at $1,000 and can be renewed for a total of four 1-year scholarships. Students must reapply each summer for a continuation of scholarship status.

Students are allowed to apply for any or all of the four categories, however, only one scholarship is awarded per student. To apply, students must be a graduating high school senior who lives in Laguna Beach or attends Laguna Beach High School.

“When we began the scholarships program 65 years ago, we could not have foreseen its impact and success in supporting arts education. This program is a tremendous opportunity for students who are considering a career in the arts,” Kollenda said in a statement.

“We were disappointed with the inability to award scholarships to high school seniors this last year due to the pandemic and financial restraints, and very much look forward to being able to offer scholarships to high school seniors again this year.”

Applications for the Festival of Arts Scholarships must be submitted by March 11. Applications can be found on the nonprofit's website.