"We are thrilled to make this scholarship a reality. No teacher ever poured more of themselves into me or left a deeper imprint on my heart than Dr. Tate. His wisdom, kindness, and unforgettable stories shaped who I am today. Through our youth-focused 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we donate thousands of graphic novels each year to comfort children in medical crisis and foster care, while also promoting a joy of reading in Title I schools. Inspired by the power of storytelling, we felt compelled to create a scholarship that encourages young dreamers to embrace their own voices and share their stories with the world. We honor his legacy."
About the scholarship
The Dr. Ben Tate Inspirational Scholarship is a memorial scholarship established in 2025 for aspiring young artists and/or writers. It carries with it the message, “I see you, and you will go on to do great things”. The $1,000 scholarship was established by one of Dr. Tate’s pupils and is administered by the Comics Appreciation Project Inc. (CAP). CAP a 501c3 nonprofit created to support youth literacy and promote the literary value of visual storytelling.
Eligibility
For 2025, any student enrolled in high school (9th – 12th grade) in the state of Georgia (US) is eligible to apply. Applications are due by April 1st. Winners will be announced within 30 days.
legacy
The belief in the unique potential of every individual was the beautiful legacy of the late Dr. Benjamin Tate of Macon, GA. Sadly, Dr. Tate passed away in 2020 after dedicating his life to educating generations of Georgians. Known for his respect, curiosity, and compassion, he taught thousands of students in college, high schools, and even Georgia’s prisons. You can learn more at: Dr. Ben Tate Obituary Page
Applications
Requirements documents for consideration:
- Completed Application Form [download here]
- A short essay (500 words) expressing your interest in comics/graphic novels
- Either an art and/or writing sample. Art samples should consist of 3-6 pieces of scanned original work that displays your current style and interest. Writing
samples should be in the form of a script and be 2-5 pages. Special attention will be given to applicants that submit copies of original comic pages with their original script. *AI-Assisted work is not permitted - Your samples must be verified by a current sponsoring high school teacher/staff (with their contact information provided below)
Alternatively, you could mail copies of your completed application packet to:
Comics Appreciation Project
PO Box 28
Bogart, GA 30622
Deadline
The deadline for 2025 is Tuesday April 1st, 2025. Winners will be announced within 30 days.
Disbursements
The scholarship will be disbursed directly to the student’s account at the college, university, or technical school that they matriculate to after high school graduation.
Contributions
Those interested in contributing directly to the sustainability of the Dr. Ben Tate Inspirational Scholarship Fund can make a tax-deductible donation through either of the following:
You can Donate online through our Zeffy page. For those not familiar with Zeffy, it is a free online donation platform exclusively for nonprofits and charities. You can Donate online to the scholarship fund here: [Scholarship Donation Link]
Alternatively, donors can mail a check payable to the “Dr. Ben Tate Inspirational Scholarship Fund” to the following:
Comics Appreciation Project
PO Box 28
Bogart, GA 30622
Questions
Q. Where can I access the Application Form?
A. You can download the application form here: [Application Form]
Q. When are application due?
A. Application are due Monday 4/10/2025
Q. Where do I submit applications?
A. Applications can be emailed as one combined pdf to bentatescholarship@gmail.com or mailed to our PO Box.
Q. Where can address other questions?
A. Please direct all questions to bentatescholarship@gmail.com