Jennifer Akers Memorial Scholarship Program

Jennifer Akers was a beloved teacher, coach, and servant of ACTAA until her unexpected passing on February 17, 2022. A lifelong educator, Jennifer taught in Arkansas public education for 29 years; including Camden, Russellville, and most recently at Cabot for her last 15 years in the classroom. During her teaching career, she taught 9th through 12th grades, spending most of those years as a Forensics coach and director at both Russellville and Cabot. Akers served as a member of ACTAA since 1993, including service as chair of the State Championship Tournament Committee, chair of the Demo Day Committee, permanent tabulator of Arkansas Student Congress, Professional Development Coordinator, President (2006-2007), and most recently Executive Treasurer (2013-2021). Her commitment to service was exemplified through the relationships she developed with her students and the forensics and communication profession.  

High School Student Scholarship

ACTAA annually offers three $500.00 scholarships for current high schools participating in debate, forensics, or theatre to assist with paying for college post-high school graduation. Students should submit the digital scholarship application by February 21, 2025. The ACTAA Scholarship Committee will select finalists from redacted information. Selected finalists and their teachers will be notified by March 12, 2025. Teachers should submit verification of involvement and a recommendation for the finalist by March 17, 2025. Winners will be announced at the Arkansas State Championship Tournament awards assembly.

The applicant must:

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College Student Scholarship

ACTAA annually offers one $500.00 scholarship for a current college student in a degree plan with intentions to become a communication, theatre, or dance educator. Students should submit the digital scholarship application by February 21, 2025. The ACTAA Scholarship Committee will select finalists from redacted information. Winners will be announced at the Arkansas State Championship Tournament awards assembly.

The applicant must:

• be a current freshmen, sophomores, or juniors enrolled in an Arkansas accredited college with a 3.0 GPA
• be majoring in speech communication, theatre, or dance education
• join as an ACTAA alumni member.

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Educator Scholarship

ACTAA annually offers one $500.00 scholarship for a current ACTAA member educator seeking continuing education, non-traditional certification and/or professional development. Applicants should submit the digital scholarship application by February 21, 2025. The ACTAA Scholarship Committee will select finalists from redacted information. Winners will be announced at the Arkansas State Championship Tournament awards assembly.

The applicant must:

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