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.
2026 Scholarship Recipients
Eli Kagel, TEC Connections Academy | Brooline, Massachusetts
Emma Moroz, Saint Joseph Hill Academy | Staten Island, New York
Click on the photo of this year's recipient to learn more.
2025 Scholarship Recipient
Brendan Cunningham, Ralston High School | Ralston, Nebraska
2024 Scholarship Recipient
Molly Nealon, Natomas Charter School | Sacramento, California
2023 Scholarship Recipients
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.
