Who Can Apply:
- Mark Anthony created this scholarship to honor his little sister, Sasha, who passed away from NF1 (neurofibromatosis) in 2023. Sasha was a bright, resilient young woman whose life was shaped by her diagnosis, and who never had the chance to pursue the higher education she dreamed of. Mark Anthony created this scholarship so that another student facing the same diagnosis could have the opportunity Sasha didn’t.
- This scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors living with NF1 who plan to pursue higher education — whether at a trade school, community college, or university. Applicants are encouraged to share their own story, including how their diagnosis has shaped their goals and their path forward.
- Mark Anthony hopes this scholarship will be a small way to carry his sister’s memory forward, while giving another student living with a chronic illness the chance to pursue their education and build the future Sasha never got to see.
Submission: To apply, in your own words, tell us about yourself — your hobbies, your goals, and your plans after high school — and share how NF1 has shaped you into the person you are today.
Deadline: February 5, 2027
Amount: $500
Learn More: https://bold.org/scholarships/sasha-smith-award/
