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The Dr. Bill Marion Jr. First-Generation Scholarship Fund supports Valparaiso University students who are the first in their families to pursue a college degree. Designed to promote academic achievement, leadership, and financial accessibility, this scholarship honors the enduring legacy of Dr. Marion’s dedication to equity, education, and student opportunity.

Multicultural Scholarships

The Dr. Bill Marion, Jr., First-Generation Scholarship Fund was established in 2010 by the Office of Multicultural Programs (OMP) and a group of faculty, staff, and students at Valpo. The goal of this scholarship is to promote student success and retention by assisting full-time, undergraduate, first-generation college students in achieving their educational dreams.  A student is considered “first-generation” if neither of the student’s parents/guardians earned a 4-year college degree. A student who regularly resided with and received support from only one parent who did not earn a baccalaureate degree would also be eligible. Preference is given to students who demonstrate financial need, have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5, and exhibit leadership qualities and community/service involvement.

The scholarship is named in memory of Dr. Bill Marion, Jr., who served as Professor of Mathematics and Computer Science at Valparaiso University for nearly 32 years.  Dr. Marion, Jr., passed away in 2010 following a battle with cancer. Dr. Marion Jr. was an active and strong supporter of the Office of Multicultural Programs and was a recipient of the 2003 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Award for his significant and sustained contributions toward improving human relations. “The Dr. Bill Marion, Jr., First-Generation Scholarship Fund reflects his commitment, his dedication, his spirit, and his enduring desire to make this University and the greater community a better place.”  (Mark Heckler, Former Valparaiso University President). 

The award amount shall be up to $1,000 per student per year. The number of awards and the amount of each award will be determined by the Bill Marion scholarship selection committee, in collaboration with the Office of Financial Aid. The committee will consult with the Office of Financial Aid to ensure that the federal and University policies are met.

Timeline: Application opens March 23, 2027-Deadline: April 10, 2027 at 11:59 pm

For more information, contact the Office of Student Life, Harre Union Suite 200, Ph: 219.464.5411, Email: .

Please download the supplemental documents below to complete your application:

  • Recommendation Letter

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Estimate Your Cost

The Net Price Calculator helps prospective undergraduate first-time freshmen and their families estimate the cost of attending Valparaiso University after grants and scholarships. Based on recent student award data, it provides an estimate of financial aid and remaining costs to help families plan ahead.

These estimates are not guarantees of aid, and students must still complete all admissions and financial aid requirements by the appropriate deadlines. Families with unusual financial circumstances are encouraged to contact the Office of Financial Aid for assistance.

Supporting Your Valpo Journey

At Valpo, our Student Financial Services team is here to help you navigate aid and student accounts with personalized support. Student Financial Services consists of the Office of Financial Aid and the Office of Student Accounts:

Office of Financial Aid

Kretzmann Hall, Suite 103
1700 Chapel Drive,
Valparaiso, IN 46383

The Office of Financial Aid helps students and families find the best path to funding a Valpo education. From completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and exploring scholarships, to reviewing your aid offer and understanding loan options, our team is with you every step of the way. We’re committed to making a Valpo education attainable for every student we serve.

Office of Student Accounts

Kretzmann Hall, Room 137
1700 Chapel Drive,
Valparaiso, IN 46383

The Office of Student Accounts is your resource for the financial details that come with being a Valpo student. That includes tuition and fee billing, payment plans, refunds, and e-bill access for students, and authorized payers. Whether you need to make a payment, set up a payment plan, or check on your account, we are happy to help.

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