The Washington Apple Pi has established an endowed scholarship at George Mason University — extending our "users helping users" philosophy to the students of tomorrow.
Our Scholarship at George Mason University
For more than 45 years, the Pi has been built on a simple idea: that people who love Apple technology are better off when they share what they know. That spirit of generosity now reaches beyond our membership. The Pi has made a gift to George Mason University's Volgenau School of Engineering to establish a permanent, endowed scholarship fund supporting students in the Department of Computer Science.
How It Came to Be
The scholarship was brought to life through the initiative of Larry and Nicole Kerschberg. Larry, a long-time Pi board member and GMU computer science professor, credits Nicole with first suggesting the idea. His department chair noted — affectionately — that Kerschberg is rarely seen without at least two Apple devices on his person.
The Pi's board approved the endowment in 2016, and GMU announced the gift that September. The first scholarship award followed in Spring 2017. President Ken Goldman put the Pi's motivation simply:
"Our Pi philosophy has always been one of 'users helping users.' We are delighted to extend this philosophy forward for years to come by devoting some of our financial resources to help students of George Mason University."
— Ken Goldman, Pi President, 2015–2017GMU's computer science department chair Sanjeev Setia welcomed the partnership: the scholarship draws a direct line between the Apple devices that have shaped personal computing and the students who will shape its future.
A Growing Legacy
Pi board approves the endowment; GMU's Volgenau School of Engineering announces the gift in September.
First scholarship award made — to Stephen Collins, GMU Computer Science student.
Awards continue each semester, supporting students across undergraduate and graduate programs.
Why It Matters
An endowed fund is permanent. Unlike a one-time donation, the principal is invested and the returns fund scholarships year after year — in perpetuity. Every contribution Pi members make to this fund grows its impact for decades to come.
Recipients are selected on the basis of academic merit and financial need, and may be full-time or part-time, in-state or out-of-state, domestic or international students.
Help Grow the Scholarship
Thirteen students supported and counting — but the endowment can do even more with your support. Pi members can contribute directly through George Mason University's giving page. Every dollar is invested permanently in a student's future.
Contribute at GMU →Questions? Contact the Pi board