Michigan Townships Association

Robert R. Robinson Scholarship

Robert R. Robinson Scholarship

Supporting tomorrow’s local leaders

MTA’s annual Robert R. Robinson Memorial Scholarship is available to support Michigan students pursuing coursework or a degree to assist in serving local government.

All undergraduate and graduate students in a Michigan college or university who are pursuing a degree in local government administration or similar coursework are now eligible to apply for the scholarship. In addition, individuals—including high school students—who wish to take educational training courses, seminars or online education that would prepare them to start in (or improve their current role in) a local government role may also apply.

The scholarship is a one-time award, typically up to $1,500, determined on a competitive basis by the applicant’s academic achievement, community involvement and commitment to serving local government. The following is required to apply:

1) a letter of recommendation from a professor or instructor for current college students, or an elected township official or superintendent/manager for those not yet enrolled in college or coursework

2) a copy of a resolution of support from a Michigan township board

3) a short essay on an important issue facing local government. 

The application deadline is Saturday, May 31. 

Read more about our: 2024 Robinson Scholarship recipient | 2023 Robinson Scholarship recipients Ι 2022 Robinson Scholarship recipients Ι 2021 Robinson Scholarship recipients Ι 2020 recipients Ι 2019 recipients

In memory of Robert R. Robinson, 1920-1987

As MTA’s second executive director, Robert R. Robinson was dedicated to townships and to furthering the form of government closest to the people. In support of Robinson’s vision of a stronger township government today and tomorrow, the MTA Board of Directors established the Robert R. Robinson Memorial Scholarship Fund to support the educational pursuits of tomorrow’s township leaders.
 
MTA established a memorial scholarship in Robinson’s honor after he passed away in 1987. Robinson dedicated much of his life to township government. In addition to his eight years as Association executive director, he served for six years as MTA’s legislative director, and was a cofounder and board member of the National Association of Towns and Townships, including two years as president. He spent a decade as Meridian Charter Township (Ingham Co.) supervisor before joining MTA in 1969.

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Help support Michigan’s future leaders

Awarding this endowment each year in Robert R. Robinson’s name helps to ensure that Michigan’s future local leaders continue to value and protect township government and the Michigan residents it serves. Township officials and MTA county chapters can help ensure that we are able to continue supporting the educational pursuits of tomorrow’s township leaders by making a donation to support the scholarship fund.

“The scholarship fund is critical both to students to help in pursuit of their local government careers, and to all public officials as we work to encourage today’s students to pursue a future in public service,” said Robinson Scholarship Committee Member Harold Koviak, MTA District 4 director and Burt Township (Cheboygan Co.) supervisor. “Without these funds, it is that much harder for the students to achieve their goals.”

As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, all contributions are tax deductible. Checks may be sent, payable to The Robert R. Robinson Memorial Scholarship Fund, to: Michigan Townships Association, PO Box 80078, Lansing, MI 48908-0078.

Call (517) 321-6467 with any questions.