The Wayne Hadley
LGBTQ+ Travel Scholarship

About the Scholarship

The Wayne Hadley LGBTQ+ Travel Scholarship was created to support students pursuing travel experiences that advance learning, leadership, cultural understanding, or LGBTQ+ engagement.

The scholarship typically provides $2,000–$3,000 annually to support travel related to education, research, conferences, study abroad programs, internships, or other learning experiences that meaningfully engage LGBTQ+ communities or issues.

Originally established at Ohio University, this scholarship continues Wayne’s legacy by investing in LGBTQ+ students who are seeking opportunities to learn, explore the world, and contribute meaningfully to LGBTQ+ communities.

About Wayne

The scholarship honors Wayne Hadley, the very first person the scholarship donor met when he moved into his freshman dorm at Ohio University.

Wayne later passed away from complications related to HIV/AIDS in 1992. His memory represents a generation of LGBTQ+ people whose lives and leadership were cut short during the AIDS crisis, and whose legacies continue to inspire community care, courage, and connection.

Recipients are encouraged to carry forward Wayne’s spirit of connection and leadership by using their travel experience to deepen understanding, build relationships, and share what they learn with others.

About the Scholarship

Wayne Hadley Quilt Photo

The Wayne Hadley LGBTQ+ Travel Scholarship was created to support students pursuing travel experiences that advance learning, leadership, cultural understanding, or LGBTQ+ engagement.

The scholarship typically provides $2,000–$3,000 annually to support travel related to education, research, conferences, study abroad programs, internships, or other learning experiences that meaningfully engage LGBTQ+ communities or issues.

Originally established at Ohio University, this scholarship continues Wayne’s legacy by investing in LGBTQ+ students who are seeking opportunities to learn, explore the world, and contribute meaningfully to LGBTQ+ communities.

About Wayne

Wayne Hadley Rest

The scholarship honors Wayne Hadley, the very first person the scholarship donor met when he moved into his freshman dorm at Ohio University.

Wayne later passed away from complications related to HIV/AIDS in 1992. His memory represents a generation of LGBTQ+ people whose lives and leadership were cut short during the AIDS crisis, and whose legacies continue to inspire community care, courage, and connection.

Recipients are encouraged to carry forward Wayne’s spirit of connection and leadership by using their travel experience to deepen understanding, build relationships, and share what they learn with others.

"We all saw in him the kind of courage, grace, humor and wit that are possible when you're facing your greatest challenges and struggles."  Barbara Jenkins, longtime friend

Wayne Hadley ob

A Word From the Donor

John Corlett interview about Wayne Hadley.

Application Details

Timeline Information

Deadline to Apply: November 9th at 11:59 PM
Questions? Reach out for assistance

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

  • Reside in Northeast Ohio
  • Be currently enrolled in a college, university, or educational program
  • Be pursuing a travel experience related to learning, leadership, cultural exchange, or LGBTQ+ engagement
  • Demonstrate a commitment to LGBTQ+ communities, advocacy, scholarship, or leadership
  • Be able to complete the proposed travel within 12 months of receiving the award

Post-Travel Expectations

Upon returning from their travels, scholarship recipients will be asked to provide:

  1.  A brief written reflection about their experiences
  2. A short story about the travel experience for the LGBT Center's newsletter
  3. Several travel photos to include in scholarship highlights.

These help inspire future applicants, share learning with the broader community, and honor the legacy of Wayne Hadley.

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