Scholarship Recipients

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JOHN JAY FETZER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP

The John Jay Fetzer Memorial Scholarship Fund benefits high school seniors who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, civil debate skills and civics knowledge. Established in memory of our late Institute colleague, Jay was passionate about equal justice and equal opportunity for all. His compassion for others was borne out by the volunteer work he did at the food bank, homeless shelter and tutoring for underserved and at risk youth. The scholarship is bestowed to exemplary members of our high school program, the O'Connor Institute Ambassadors Civics & Debate Club who personify the core values of the Institute.

2025 Scholarship Recipient

Brendan Cunningham, Ralston High School | Ralston, Nebraska

2024 Scholarship Recipient

Molly Nealon, Natomas Charter School | Sacramento, California

2023 Scholarship Recipients

2023 JJF Scholars

ELIZA DYSART

St. Augustine High School, Florida

Currently attending the University of Florida

TREX JONES

Arcadia High School, Arizona

Currently attending George Washington University

Founded by Justice Sandra Day O'Connor following her retirement from the U.S. Supreme Court, the nonpartisan, nonprofit Institute continues her distinguished legacy and lifetime work to advance American Democracy through multigenerational civics education, civil discourse and civic engagement.