The foundation was created in 1986 by Benjamin Delano Conley, a Wicomico native. He was always interested in the well-being of others. So, he and his wife started the foundation with CWM to give back to the community they so dearly loved.
In addition to offering assistance to the non-profits benefitting the Lancaster and Northumberland counties, the trust also supports students who live there with educational expenses.
Each year a specified amount of funds are distributed among eligible students. Applicants are selected based on need, academics, and extracurricular activities.
Savannah is a Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) student with a major in radiology and a special focus on diagnostic medical sonography. She has received funds two years in a row and says there aren’t enough words to describe what the scholarship has meant to her.
“The grants definitely help with my tuition, but there are more fees than a typical university has because of my specialized focus,” Savannah says. “Having this assistance takes a lot off of me and frees up resources, so that I can focus on school.”
Caroline Beck Hodges, also a recipient, has graduated. She received the scholarship all four years of her undergraduate degree at the University of Virginia, where she received a B.S.Ed in kinesiology with a minor in health and wellness, so she could become a physical therapist.
She knew her mother wouldn’t be able to finance school after her father passed away. While her family was supportive emotionally, she’d always known any educational and living expenses were her responsibility after high school.
“Few people know how to navigate such massive and intimidating financial ramifications of college,” says Caroline. “The Conley Foundation invested in me and helped to keep me afloat while navigating this exciting yet daunting time in my life, and I am grateful.”
Both students encourage others to take advantage of the program.
“It is our honor to continue to carry on the Conleys’ legacy and be a part of their long-term impact on our community,” Jean says. Even more so when it has been such a challenging year for schools and students.”
How to apply for the Conley Foundation – Deadline 6/15
Interested students can apply (and reapply each year) for a scholarship via mail to the Conley Foundation. Applications are accepted through June 15th. Applicants must provide a copy of their SAT scores, a high school or most recent college transcript, as well as two written personal recommendations. Students should mail their completed packages to:
The Ben D. Conley Charitable and Educational Foundation c/o Chesapeake Wealth Management P.O. Box 1419 Kilmarnock, VA 22482
Leaving your legacy behind
If you would like to discuss making a similar arrangement with your estate, please contact our Chesapeake Wealth Management team at 888-653-9088.
