Additional Resources
- Learn more about First-Generation Programs
- Give to Blavin Bettin Scholars at NAU
The Blavin Bettin Scholars Program
The Blavin Scholars Fund at Northern Arizona University was established in 2010 by Paul and Amy Blavin. The program was created to support youth aging out of foster care in their dreams to achieve a post-secondary education. Tuck and Jeanette Bettin partnered with the Blavin family to establish what is now known as The Blavin Bettin Scholars Program. Through comprehensive individual and program support, the Blavin Bettin Scholars Program helps students navigate and maximize their college experience as they pursue a bachelor’s degree at Northern Arizona University.
Through the expansion of the program and support from our donors, The Blavin Bettin Scholars Program is proud to support students who have experienced time in the foster care system, are a Ward of Court, emancipated minor, or were an unaccompanied homeless youth.
Services & Resources Provided
- $3,000 scholarship per academic year
- Professional staff mentors
- Community building through social activities
- Individual tutoring in partnership with the NAU Academic Success Centers at no cost to scholars
- Counseling services at no cost to scholars
- Academic success and life skills workshops
- Service-learning opportunities.
- Connection to campus and community resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a minimum timeframe I had to be in Foster Care/Ward of Court/Homeless Youth? Accordion Closed
No. As long as a student has documentation indicating they were admitted into the Foster Care system at any point in their life or supporting documents for being a Ward of Court or Homeless Youth, they are eligible to apply for Blavin Bettin Scholars.
Can any student apply for Blavin Bettin Scholars? Accordion Closed
Yes. As long as a student meets eligibility requirements. Students can apply to Blavin Bettin Scholars anytime during their undergraduate career, as a transfer student, or a student starting after a pause in schooling.
What is the social commitment to Blavin Bettin Scholars? Accordion Closed
Students are expected to meet with Blavin Bettin Scholars Staff 3 times per semester, attend 4-5 social events per semester, and engage in 2-3 professional development events per semester. Failure to meet these requirements could result in scholarship probation or dismissal.
When are the events/socials and what are they? Accordion Closed
Events dates and times usually take place on Friday/Saturday Afternoons to ensure all students can participate. Dates/times are shared with students before the beginning of each semester to plan accordingly. Social events are fun experiences for students to mingle and partake in activities they may not have the opportunity to engage in. One-on-one meetings will be planned with students individually based on their schedule and the pro-staff’s schedule. Other optional events usually center around professional development or learning about other campus resources.
Will I need to miss class to come to Blavin Bettin Scholars Events/Meetings? Accordion Closed
No. Students will never be asked to miss class for a Blavin Bettin Scholars meeting or event. All meetings and events are planned around student classes/courses to the best of the program’s ability.
When will I receive my Blavin Bettin Scholars Scholarship? Accordion Closed
All scholarships, including Blavin Bettin Scholars, will be distributed according to the NAU Financial Aid timeline. Usually, mid to late-August for Fall semesters and early January for Spring semesters.
Can I use my scholarship for rent/food/books or non-tuition items? Accordion Closed
Blavin Bettin Scholars funds will be awarded in combination with your existing scholarships, grants, and other financial aid. Each student’s aid package is different and can result in varying levels of refunds to the student.
How many students are in Blavin Bettin Scholars? Accordion Closed
Blavin Bettin Scholars aims to support 50 students by the Fall 2025 semester.
Can I leave the program during undergrad and re-join? Accordion Closed
Blavin Bettin Scholars encourages students to limit time away from the university as much as possible. In the event this could occur, you will work with your Blavin Bettin Scholars staff to find the best supportive options.
What if my degree takes longer than 4 years? Will Blavin Bettin Scholars still provide me with a scholarship? Accordion Closed
If a student requires a 5th year of undergraduate funding, they will need to meet with Blavin Bettin Scholars staff for discussion before approval. Other scholarships or funding a student receives may be impacted by needing longer than 4 years.
I want to study abroad eventually. Will I still receive Blavin Bettin Scholars money? Accordion Closed
Yes. If within your 4-5 years of Blavin Bettin Scholars participation. Be sure to talk with the program about this beforehand.
What if I graduate early? Will I receive any remaining money from those semester(s) if I am not in school? Accordion Closed
No. Blavin Bettin Scholars can only fund semesters you are in school (Fall and Spring). Students are not entitled to any money from the program if they are not active in the program or if they graduate early.
Can I use Blavin Bettin Scholars money in the Summer or Winter sessions? Accordion Closed
At this time, Blavin Bettin Scholars can only fund Fall and Spring sessions at NAU.