Institute for Families in Society

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Be A Champion for Youth and Families!

The Michael Daniel Smith and Alexander Tyler Smith Scholarship is funded by an endowment created by Mr. Robert L. Thomas and awarded to the University of South Carolina in memory of Michael and Alexander, who died under tragic circumstances. Each year, the Institute for Families in Society is pleased to offer one scholarship ($1500-$2000, depending on available funds) to a full-time undergraduate student from the UofSC Columbia campus. The student will show outstanding promise in becoming a helping professional for children and families in need. To be eligible, students must be a junior in standing and a Psychology, Social Work, Nursing, or Public Health major. The scholarship funds will be awarded during the student’s senior year.

2025 Smith Scholarship

PLEASE NOTE: The application period for the 2025 Smith Scholarship has closed. We look forward to announcing the awardee by May 15.

Stay tuned for the application window for 2026 to open in January of 2026!