Boomer Esiason Foundation Academic Scholarship
The Boomer Esiason Foundation Academic Scholarship is dedicated to easing the financial burden on students living with cystic fibrosis, allowing them to focus on their education and achieve their goals. Each year, BEF awards scholarships to outstanding students who demonstrate resilience, determination, and academic dedication. Additional financial assistance may be available through designated scholarship distinctions.
Scholarship Designations
As part of the application process, students may choose to submit a long-form essay in response to a specific question tied to one of the following scholarship designations. Completing the essay automatically qualifies applicants for consideration for additional financial assistance under that designation:
Bonnie Strangio Memorial Scholarship
Awarded to a student who embodies Bonnie’s positive spirit and “can-do” attitude. This recipient approaches life with enthusiasm, values family and friendship, and pursues their goals with passion despite living with CF.
Rosemary Quigley Memorial Scholarship
Recognizes a student who refuses to let CF limit their potential, and who has a passion for academics—particularly in the fields of medicine, health policy, or law, areas that reflected Rosemary’s own interests.
Jerry Cahill “You Cannot Fail” Distinction
Honors a student on a journey of self-discovery who embraces life’s challenges, shares their story to inspire others, and celebrates the unique path that shapes their identity.
Lea Faraone Memorial Scholarship
Celebrates a student who lives life on their own terms—boldly, passionately, and with a deep commitment to the CF community. Lea loved to travel and was a strong advocate for those with CF.
Team Boomer Distinction
Awarded to a student who values physical fitness and actively participates in athletics as part of their CF management and overall wellness.
Exemplary Graduate Student Distinction
Designed for students with CF pursuing graduate studies. Ideal candidates are well-rounded, driven to achieve academic excellence, and open about their experience with CF.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Have a confirmed diagnosis of cystic fibrosis
- Be a US citizen or legal permanent resident of the US
- Be enrolled in or accepted to an undergraduate or graduate program
- Demonstrate academic achievement, strong character, leadership, community service, and financial need
Application Requirements
To be considered, applicants must submit the following:
- Completed scholarship application
- Letter from a physician (on official letterhead) confirming CF diagnosis and outlining therapy regimen
- Academic transcript(s) – high school, college, or graduate school
- Detailed tuition breakdown from the academic institution (required for incoming freshmen only)
- W-2 forms for both parents, or tax return if self-employed
Selected semi-finalists will be contacted for a phone interview with a member of the BEF Scholarship Committee.
Email questions to:
FAQ'S
Only individuals with a documented CF diagnosis are eligible to apply.
Yes. However, an applicant may only receive one scholarship per calendar year.
Yes. Applicants may not exceed a total of $30K for a four-year degree or $45K for a
graduate degree.
No. However, without applying for a designation, the applicant will not be considered
for additional funds.
No. Applicants may only apply for one designation.
Awarded funds may be used for tuition, fees, and on-campus room and board only.
No. BEF will only make payments directly to the applicant’s school bursar’s office.
Once the application deadline has passed, BEF will notify applicants of their status
within three to four weeks.