Apply for a Scholarship

Smile Oregon History

Smile Oregon was founded through the shared vision of two strangers, Dr. Judah Garfinkle, a native Oregonian and third generation dentist, and local philanthropist Bob Blank, who were both deeply committed to helping children with craniofacial conditions reach their full potential. Their unexpected connection sparked the creation of Smile Oregon, driven by their shared passion for making children smile. Since its inception in 2009, their leadership has positively impacted hundreds of lives. The impact of Smile Oregon has grown exponentially, reflecting their passion and vision and help from a dedicated working Board.

 

The Founders Scholarship is awarded annually to honor the co-founders of Smile Oregon, celebrating their unwavering commitment to serving the Smile Oregon community.

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Smile Oregon Founders Scholarship Criteria

This award is given annually to graduating high school students and current undergraduate students living in Oregon and SW Washington. Scholarships are awarded up to $2,500 (so it could be less if needed some  years?) each to be used for fees associated with attending a four-year higher learning institution, community college or trade school. 

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Applications are due by May 5, 2025.

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About Smile Oregon

Smile Oregon is dedicated to supporting children and families affected by cleft and craniofacial conditions from birth through adulthood. We provide scholarships, community events and financial assistance to ensure that every child has the coordinated care they need and a caring community to lean on. Our mission is to transform lives through the Smile Oregon community, empowering those with cleft and craniofacial conditions to smile with the greatest confidence.

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Living with a cleft or craniofacial condition may require resilience and determination to navigate complex medical systems and associated speech, dental, and/or hearing challenges. The craniofacial journey includes a number of touchpoints with the medical system with numerous interventions over two decades that may require these qualities. The Smile Oregon Founders Scholarship celebrates students who demonstrate these qualities by overcoming challenges and positively impacting their communities.

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Application Criteria

• Graduating high school student from an accredited high school in Oregon or SW Washington

• Admitted to a four-year institution of higher education, community college or trade school

• Demonstrated history associated with a cleft or craniofacial condition, including documentation from a member of their care team. 

 

Special consideration will be given to students with significant involvement in community service, advocacy, or mentorship.

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Selection Criteria

• Student submitted transcript and Activities and Awards form

• Student submitted video or written statement sharing their personal story of overcoming challenges and contributing to their community

• 2 letters of recommendation (could be from a school staff member, medical professional, community leader, etc.)​

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Acceptance & Celebration

We welcome the opportunity to meet you and also celebrate recipients at a public Smile Oregon event. Recipients will have the opportunity to meet the Smile Oregon scholarship committee via Zoom and/or attend the gala or walk.

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To Apply

Download the Scholarship Application Checklist and email application and attachments by May 5th.

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Questions? Reach out to us at info@smileoregon.org.