Earl Bane grew up in a large family with limited financial means, and college was not an option for him. Yet, he believed strongly in giving young people the opportunity to continue their education after high school.

Each year, the Foundation honors his vision by awarding ten renewable scholarships to graduating high school seniors from Saline County who plan to attend a college in Kansas.

Scholarship Value

• Up to $20,000 per student
• $2,500 per semester (up to 8 semesters)
• Must be used for undergraduate degrees at Kansas colleges
• Must be used within 5 years of high school graduation

Selection Criteria

The scholarship reflects Earl’s own values—hard work, initiative, and resourcefulness. These qualities may be demonstrated through school, employment, or personal activities.

Elibility

Applicants must:

• Be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident
• Be a graduating senior attending a high school in Saline County, Kansas, or the Salina Adult Education Center
• Demonstrate a strong work ethic and enterprising potential
• Be scheduled to graduate from a public/private high school or earn a GED
• Hold at least a 2.5 GPA (high school) or a GED score of 660
• Apply as a full-time student (minimum 12 credit hours per semester) at an accredited Kansas college

Application Form

The 2026 Earl Bane Scholarship application form and complete instructions will be available to download by November 1, 2025.