Donn Devine Memorial Scholarship

The Donn Devine Memorial Scholarship was established in 2020 to honor Donn’s significant contributions to the legal and genealogical fields. This scholarship is an exciting opportunity for a first-time attendee to engage in a comprehensive week-long GRIP Genealogy Institute (GRIP) course.

The National Genealogical Society (NGS) offers scholarships to individuals who demonstrate the qualities of dedication and volunteerism exhibited by Donn Devine. The scholarship allows the recipient to attend a week-long institute course from the GRIP course catalog for the 2025 Course year. Courses cover various topics, including advanced DNA, AI in genealogy, genealogical documentation, military, land, and ethnic records, regionally focused studies, and more. Courses can be viewed on the GRIP website courses page.

GRIP conducts two weeks of institute courses annually, one held virtually in June and the other in person in Pittsburgh, PA, in July. If the recipient chooses to attend the in-person session, they receive full tuition coverage plus on-campus housing in a shared room. The recipient is responsible for arranging and covering the costs of their travel and transportation to Pittsburgh. If the recipient chooses the virtual session, NGS covers the full tuition.

Application Process

Applications are due no later than 31 October 2024 – the winner will be notified by 22 November 2024.
Applicants must provide the following during the application process:

  1. Full name
  2. Mailing address
  3. Email address
  4. Phone
  5. Your profession
  6. Your level in genealogy (beginner, novice, intermediate, professional)
  7. Past genealogical institutes attended (if any)
  8. How did you hear about the scholarship?
  9. A 500-word essay describing your volunteer activities and how you will use the scholarship to honor Donn Devine’s legacy of volunteerism and giving.

Please see the Google form to complete your application and attach your essay in a Google or Word document for review (please do not forget to put your name and address on your essay paper).

Be prepared before you open the Google form with all the details above and your completed essay.

If you have any questions, please get in touch with us at grip@ngsgenealogy.org.