LEO Foundation

Keian, holding up a Grand Canyon University pin — “Paying for school was one of my biggest fears and one thing holding me back from going. So thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!”

**Keian** LEO Foundation Scholarship · Grand Canyon University

“My name is Summer Genaro and I was honored to receive the SKW Play It Forward scholarship!”

Summer Genaro Arizona Christian University
“My name is Gianna Genaro and I am a senior at GCU pursuing a degree in Communications with an Emphasis in Interpersonal Relations.”

Gianna Genaro Grand Canyon University
Next, she hopes to complete her studies and become either a doctor or another healthcare professional.

Lydia Perlin Arizona Christian University
Sophia Hamre will be a senior at Grand Canyon University next fall, with plans to graduate in Spring 2027.

Sophia Hamre Grand Canyon University
“My name is Sydney Hamre, and I am currently a junior at Grand Canyon University.”

Sydney Hamre Grand Canyon University
For Elijah, receiving a scholarship from the Leo Foundation is an incredible blessing that fills him with gratitude and purpose.

Elijah Grand Canyon University
Matthew became a Christian at 18 years old despite his upbringing in a religiously unaffiliated home.

Matthew LEO Foundation Christian Studies Scholarship
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the LEO Foundation for awarding me the BHHS Legacy Nursing and Health-Related Scholarship.”

Jacob BHHS Legacy Nursing & Health Related Scholarship
Thanks to the LEO Foundation Scholarship, Natalie graduated with honors from an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program.

Natalie LEO Foundation Scholarship
“I am currently a Master’s student at Grand Canyon University studying to receive my MBA in Finance.”

Isabelle Grand Canyon University (transferred from UC Santa Cruz)
Thanks to LEO Foundation Scholarships, Eunice graduated in 2021 as an electrical engineer.

Eunice LEO Foundation Scholarship
Sebastian began his collegiate career with a soccer scholarship until an injury forced him to retire his jersey.

Sebastian LEO Foundation Scholarship
He realized his calling from God during his junior year of high school and continues to pursue God’s plan for his life.

Joshua Grand Canyon University
“Basketball is more than a game; it’s my structure, my community.”

Jaiden Yavapai College
“I am a Senior at Grand Canyon University, double majoring in entrepreneurial studies and digital production with an emphasis on screenwriting.”

Caleb Grand Canyon University
“I am so grateful for the LEO Foundation and everything you do to make things like a college education possible.”

Brooklyn LEO Foundation Scholarship
“Through my scholarship opportunity, I have met some amazing people and have found my path in life and a new relationship with God.”

Julian LEO Foundation Scholarship

LEO Foundation is an independent nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose mission is to provide educational opportunities and scholarships to students attending university with a traditional full-time status.

See available scholarships Meet our recipients

1 days until applications open · opens November 1, 2026

Our impact

Twenty years of scholarships, one student at a time.

years of scholarships

The foundation was founded in 2006.

5,685

students awarded

Across every LEO scholarship program.

$6.9M

awarded in scholarships

Paid directly toward students' education.

What LEO stands for

Leadership. Education. Opportunity.

Leadership

At LEO Foundation, we believe leadership support directly impacts future careers and success. Our programs empower the next generation of leaders by helping students develop essential skills such as analyzing their own strengths and weaknesses, setting goals, and having the confidence, motivation, and ability to carry them out. Graduates are challenged to become individuals whose skills, integrity and sense of purpose distinguish them in the workplace and in the world.

Education

Through our scholarship programs, higher-educational experiences are more accessible to students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue their academic and career goals. In addition, with financial support through scholarships, students have a greater academic focus and an increased chance of staying in school and successfully graduating. The real measure of LEO Foundation’s success lies in the outcome of our students.

Opportunity

LEO Foundation has a long history of connecting students to a wide variety of growth opportunities, such as educational and athletic programming and leadership and mentorship development. Linking today’s leaders with the leaders of tomorrow is a future investment that builds strong communities, transforms individuals, while developing next generations of philanthropists.

Applications reopen November 1

This year's enrollment period has closed. Browse the scholarships now so you are ready when the next cycle opens, and see who was awarded this year.

Meet our recipients

Scholarships awarded

The students behind the numbers

Every award on this page went to a student in Arizona who applied, qualified, and got to keep going.

All recipients

SKW Play It Forward Music Scholarship

Summer Genaro

Music, vocal performance emphasis · Arizona Christian University

My name is Summer Genaro and I was honored to receive the SKW Play It Forward scholarship! I am currently a sophomore at Arizona Christian University. I am studying Music with an emphasis in vocal performance. One of my greatest passions is to bring the light of Christ into the dark music industry! My time at ACU is helping me hone my skills to be able to perform and teach music with excellence, all for the glory of God! God has provided a way for me to attend this amazing school through the SKW Play It Forward scholarship! I am so grateful to be selected and am striving to use the resources God has given me to become equipped to shine Christ’s light in the music world, and also in every area of my life! Praise God!

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Gianna Genaro

Communications, Interpersonal Relations emphasis; Vocal Performance minor · Grand Canyon University

My name is Gianna Genaro and I am a senior at GCU pursuing a degree in Communications with an Emphasis in Interpersonal Relations. I am especially interested in pursuing a career as part of a non-profit organization that focuses on protecting biblical values in the public sphere, and I believe this degree would be incredibly useful in regards to a job in that field. I have also been loving my classes for my Vocal Performance minor–this is a passion of mine and music has been enriching my education as well as my personal development, allowing me to perform, produce music, and serve on the worship team at my church. I am amazed at how the Lord has used the Leo Foundation to ease the financial burden of school and to make it possible for me to really dig into my studies and reap the benefits of a high quality, Christian education. Each year of school I have prayed for continued financial provision and every time the Lord has shown his faithfulness through the generosity of the Leo Foundation and Ms. Madeline Winney. I am forever grateful for the Leo Foundation’s investment in my education.

BHHS Legacy Nursing & Health Related Scholarship

Lydia Perlin

Biology; minor in Theology and Biblical Studies · Arizona Christian University

Lydia Perlin is a freshman in the 2026-2027 school year at Arizona Christian University, where she plans to major in Biology and minor in Theology and Biblical Studies. Next, she hopes to complete her studies and become either a doctor or another healthcare professional. Receiving the BHHS Legacy Scholarship was a blessing that will help Lydia afford her education and reach her goal to make an impact in the lives of patients. Lydia is very grateful for the support from the LEO Foundation, and it reminds her to trust God’s provision throughout His plan for her future.

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Sophia Hamre

Grand Canyon University

Sophia Hamre will be a senior at Grand Canyon University next fall, with plans to graduate in Spring 2027. The Leo Foundation has been such a blessing in my life, helping to ease the financial burden of tuition and allowing me to stay focused on my academic and professional goals. Their generosity has made a meaningful impact on my college experience, and I am incredibly grateful for their support. I look forward to carrying forward the impact of their investment in my future. Receiving the LEO Foundation scholarship is a transformative gift. Raised in a home centered on faith, Sophia has always valued learning and spiritual growth. allowing her to continue her studies with a sense of relief and determination. This scholarship empowers her to focus on her academic journey while deepening her faith and personal growth. She is excited to contribute to the community and support others who may be facing their own challenges. The generous support of the Leo Foundation, Madeline Winney, CEO and the Board of Directors has alleviated financial burden, but also reminds her that she is surrounded by people who believe in her abilities and her future. With this scholarship, she is inspired to move forward with confidence, perseverance, and a heart full of faith.

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Sydney Hamre

Occupational Therapy (career goal) · Grand Canyon University

My name is Sydney Hamre, and I am currently a junior at Grand Canyon University. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to receive this scholarship, as it greatly supports both my academic journey and financial needs. This support allows me to focus more on my studies and continue working toward my goal of becoming an occupational therapist without the added stress of financial burden. I truly appreciate this investment in my future, and it motivates me to work hard and make the most of my education.

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Elijah

Sports Management · Grand Canyon University

For Elijah, receiving a scholarship from the Leo Foundation is an incredible blessing that fills him with gratitude and purpose. It is a powerful reminder of the belief others have in his ability to graduate with a Sports Management Degree. Raised in a family grounded in faith, Elijah values both education and spiritual growth. His time working directly with Ms. Winney has deepened his faith, shaping him into a more confident and intentional individual. This scholarship enables him to focus on his studies, spiritual journey, and personal growth. Elijah is also serving as a Resident Assistant on campus, where he encourages and supports his peers. The generosity of the Leo Foundation and Ms. Madeline Winney lightens his financial burden, allowing him to embrace his calling and reminding him that he is part of a community that values education, faith, and perseverance!

LEO Foundation Christian Studies Scholarship

Matthew

Christian Studies

Matthew became a Christian at 18 years old despite his upbringing in a religiously unaffiliated home. Since that time, he has pursued pastoral ministry whole-heartedly. He has served at Christian youth camps and is currently working on his bachelor’s degree in Christian studies. This summer, Matthew will lead and serve youth as the Assistant Director at Hume Lake Christian Camp. “Without the help from LEO Foundation, I wouldn’t be here and wouldn’t have the opportunity to pursue my dream.”

BHHS Legacy Nursing & Health Related Scholarship

Jacob

Biology, pre-medicine emphasis; now MBS master’s program

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the LEO Foundation for awarding me the BHHS Legacy Nursing and Health-Related Scholarship. This generous support has been instrumental in allowing me to complete my bachelor’s degree in biology with an emphasis in pre-medicine. With this academic foundation, I am now enrolled in an MBS master’s program, which serves as a direct pathway to medical school. This opportunity would not have been possible without the kindness and generosity of the LEO Foundation. Thank you for helping me pursue my dreams.

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Natalie

Bachelor of Science in Nursing (accelerated)

Thanks to the LEO Foundation Scholarship, Natalie graduated with honors from an accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. She knew from an early age that this profession was her calling. The academic and book scholarship award allowed her to focus on schoolwork and studying. Natalie is now a registered nurse at an outpatient surgery center, helping dialysis patients. She is a registered nurse employed at Phoenix Children’s Hospital.

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Isabelle

MBA in Finance; BS Business Management, minor Finance · Grand Canyon University (transferred from UC Santa Cruz)

I am currently a Master’s student at Grand Canyon University studying to receive my MBA in Finance. The LEO Foundation has supported me with scholarships for my Master’s degree program. My studies started at the University of California, Santa Cruz, before transferring and graduating from GCU with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and a minor in Finance. I played NCAA Women’s Tennis at both UCSC and GCU. I currently hold a position as Assistant Director of Corporate Affairs for a Phoenix company, where I manage Operations, HR, Marketing, and Payroll.

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Eunice

Electrical Engineering

Thanks to LEO Foundation Scholarships, Eunice graduated in 2021 as an electrical engineer. She is thriving on the east coast with her dream job at Google. Her six-year journey, which started when she was a 15-year-old girl living on another continent, had many twists and turns, but her faith, patience, and strength always prevailed.

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Sebastian

Business Administration/Management; Master of Management, Communications and IT

Sebastian began his collegiate career with a soccer scholarship until an injury forced him to retire his jersey. With new scholarship funding from LEO Foundation, he was able to continue school and graduate with a degree in Business Administration/Management and obtain a Master of Management, Communications, and IT. Sebastian now owns a business providing IT project management support and solutions.

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Joshua

Christian ministry (accelerated 3-year program) · Grand Canyon University

Through the support of the LEO Foundation and dedication to his goal, Joshua is in his second year of an accelerated three-year undergraduate program to become a pastor in Christian ministry. He realized his calling from God during his junior year of high school and continues to pursue God’s plan for his life. Joshua’s journey has included ministering to youth in the community through his church and summer camps. After graduation, Joshua will pursue a Master of Divinity with plans for a life of ministry as a teaching pastor and serving in various capacities for which he is called and equipped. “I am incredibly thankful for the scholarship funding from the LEO Foundation. It makes all of this possible. After finishing my undergraduate degree at GCU, I will now be attending classes August 2024 pursuing a Masters of Divinity in Theological and Biblical Studies at Phoenix Seminary.”

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Jaiden

Business Management · Yavapai College

Basketball is more than a game; it’s my structure, my community. I’ve been playing since I was five years old. As a kid, I moved schools a lot. Moving was never easy, especially because I have a learning disability and hearing difficulties. The court became my safe place, and my teammates developed into a sisterhood. I’m grateful and excited to have the opportunity to study business management at Yavapai College. Playing basketball made this possible. The game’s fast-paced environment helped me with my problem-solving, creativity, and self-confidence. It also helped me get out of my social shell and have the courage to express myself.

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Keian

Grand Canyon University

I am Keian and a freshman at GCU. After graduating from high school, I had a great opportunity to go on a humanitarian trip to Guatemala. It was one of the best experiences of my life! My father served his LDS mission in Guatemala, and ever since I was born, he has wanted to take me there and show me all the places he lived during his two-year mission. The trip was a life-changer. I spent two weeks serving others by building houses, laying and mixing cement, visiting families and giving them clothes and food, and helping little kids at a school in the areas we served. My favorite part of this entire trip was being able to visit families experiencing poverty and giving them food and clothes, which put the biggest smiles on their faces. I wanted to thank the LEO Foundation for the scholarship. Paying for school was one of my biggest fears and one thing holding me back from going. So thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Caleb

Entrepreneurial Studies and Digital Production (screenwriting emphasis) — double major · Grand Canyon University

I am a Senior at Grand Canyon University, double majoring in entrepreneurial studies and digital production with an emphasis on screenwriting. Two polar opposites, right? I’d tend to agree, but as I enter my senior year, I am amazed at how much of a role each major has played in the success of the other. The organizational skills learned in my business classes have proven to be essential as the very nature of film is teamwork. Likewise, my creativity has tremendously supported my pursuit of a business degree. The LEO Foundation has helped me in every step of my college career and has given me the opportunity to finish my Bachelor’s program on a high note. The LEO Foundation CEO, Madeline Winney, said, “God’s gift to you is who you are, and your gift to God is what you do with it.” With encouragement like this, one can not help but feel reassured that they are on the right path. The support of the LEO Foundation has allowed me to receive an education that not only has played a critical factor in who I am today but has given me the skills and knowledge I will use to help build a better tomorrow.

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Brooklyn

Biology (pre-medical)

I am so grateful for the LEO Foundation and everything you do to make things like a college education possible. With support from the LEO Foundation, I can study Biology with the intent of going to medical school after obtaining my bachelor’s degree. Scholarship opportunities like this give other students and me time to focus on studies and get involved on campus. I am incredibly thankful for the funding that has made this foundation possible, giving students more opportunities to achieve their dreams.

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Julian

Business IT

Through my scholarship opportunity, I have met some amazing people and have found my path in life and a new relationship with God. The Leo Foundation Scholarship Award has given me, a first-generation Hispanic higher-education student, the opportunity to accomplish my goals of getting a Business IT degree, making a name for myself in this precious life, and making my family proud. This opportunity has changed my life!

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Plan ahead

Scholarships offered each year

Applications reopen November 1, 2026. Review the criteria now so you are ready.

All scholarships

Opens later

LEO Foundation Scholarship

Varies depending on available funds

The foundation's general scholarship for traditional, full-time undergraduates carrying at least 12 credit hours.

View details Reopens November 1, 2026

Opens later

LEO Foundation Entrepreneurial Scholarship

$1,000

For full-time students majoring in business entrepreneurial studies who show initiative, need, and character.

View details Reopens November 1, 2026

Opens later

LEO Foundation Christian Studies Scholarship

Varies depending on available funds

For full-time students pursuing Christian studies, awarded annually.

View details Reopens November 1, 2026

Every scholarship is a door someone walks through.

Twenty years of scholarships, one student at a time.

Leadership. Education. Opportunity.

Leadership

Education

Opportunity

Applications reopen November 1

The students behind the numbers

Summer Genaro

Scholarships offered each year

LEO Foundation Scholarship

LEO Foundation Entrepreneurial Scholarship

LEO Foundation Christian Studies Scholarship