Coming from a large, poor family, college was not an option for Earl Bane. Despite and perhaps because of this, he felt strongly about young people having the ability to further their education following high school. The Foundation honors Earl by annually providing ten Saline County high school seniors, who attend a Kansas college, a renewable scholarship for up to eight semesters of undergraduate study. 

The requirements of the scholarship are a reflection of Earl’s life, focusing on a strong work ethic and enterprising potential. Earl believed in the potential within every student.  This potential may be found in school, work or personal activities where responsibilities and resolve are revealed. Persons with these qualities were the young people he was hoping to help.

The scholarship has a potential value of $20,000. Ten Saline County graduating seniors, or persons obtaining an equivalent degree, are selected for a $2,500 scholarship for their first semester of college. The scholarship is renewable for up to 7 additional semesters ($2,500 per semester). The scholarship can be used only toward undergraduate degrees at colleges within the state of Kansas, and must be used within the 5 year period following high school graduation.

Eligible Students:

• Lawful, permanent resident or citizen of the United States
• Attending high school in Saline County, Kansas, or the Adult Education Center
• Demonstration of a strong work ethic and enterprising potential
• Scheduled to a) graduate from a public or private high school or b) obtain the equivalent of a certification of graduation (GED)
• Achieve at least a 2.5 grade point average on a 4.0 scale (high school) or a minimum GED score of 660 (Adult Education Center)
• Apply for enrollment at an accredited college within the state of Kansas, as a qualified full-time student with a minimum 12 credit hours per semester

Application Form:

The 2024 scholarship application period has closed.  Scholarship application forms for 2025 will be available November 1 and must be postmarked by the following March 1 to be considered.

Check with your high school counselors for the application or download the scholarship application form (available November 1), along with complete instructions and additional information.