Deanna and Sam Carman

Sam Carman has been engaged with EEAI for more than 50 years.  Throughout his time as an educator, Sam has recognized the profound impact that environmental education can have on young people.  Sam's wife, Deanna, a retired teacher, shares his belief in the value of EE.  The Carmans strongly believe that helping children understand and appreciate the natural world is an investment in both their future and the future of our environment.

Sam and Deanna provided the initial funding for this scholarship endowment to help students who demonstrate dedication, perseverance, and a genuine desire to learn - regardless of where they stand academically.  The Carmans believe that qualities such as curiosity, dedication, and a willingness to work hard become the foundation for meaningful achievement.  Their hope is to see these scholarships provide opportunities for deserving students to enhance their education, whether that be in a formal classroom setting, through field experiences, internships, seminars or other endeavors.

"It is gratifying to support an organization that has meant so much to us,

and we hope this endowment will benefit young people for generations to come."

About the Scholarship

This scholarship fund is for high school seniors or college students who are considering a career in environmental education.  Scholarship funds can be used to support the traditional college expenses associated with the pursuit of a related degree, but they can also be used to support internships, field experiences, and non-traditional pathways to an environmental education career.  Each year the scholarship amount will be based upon a percentage of what is in the endowment fund. An initial scholarship of $800 will be awarded in 2027.

Eligibility

Applicants must:

• Be a high school senior, high school graduate, undergraduate student, graduate student, or other learner pursuing further education or experience related to environmental education.
• Be pursuing an educational experience at an accredited college or university, environmental education program, internship, field experience, training program, or other approved educational opportunity.
• Attend or participate in an educational opportunity located in Indiana or have a personal connection to Indiana, if attending a program outside the state.
• Demonstrate motivation and interest in environmental education or a related field.

Apply Now

The scholarship recipient will be announced by March 15th, 2027.  All scholarship applicants will be contacted directly about their application status prior to a public announcement.  The scholarship recipient will be featured in the EEAI newsletter, on our social media platforms, and announced at the EEAI annual conference.  Recipients are encouraged to attend the EEAI annual conference to share their experiences and further develop their professional learning and network building.

Support the Scholarship Fund