For 99 students across Northern Virginia and beyond, this year marks more than the start of a new academic chapter—it marks the realization of dreams made possible by a community that believes in them.
The Community Foundation for Northern Virginia (CFNOVA) is proud to award $376,650 in scholarships for the 2026–2027 academic year, continuing a growing tradition of investing in students’ potential. These scholars come from 13 counties, 37 high schools, and even several states outside the region—each carrying their own story, resilience, and vision for the future.
Behind every scholarship is a life changed. And behind every recipient is a community choosing to say: we believe in you.
CFNOVA’s commitment has been steadily growing. Just last year, the Foundation awarded more than $350,000 to over 100 students. But the numbers, as meaningful as they are, only tell part of the story. What truly matters is what these investments unlock—access to education, relief from financial stress, and the confidence to pursue a meaningful career.
“To ensure students can truly thrive in today’s rapidly evolving world, it’s not enough to support them once,” said Renée Byng Yancey, President and CEO of CFNOVA. “They need ongoing encouragement, mentorship, and a network that walks alongside them as they grow.”
That sense of support was deeply felt at this year’s Community Impact Celebration on June 8, 2026, where attendees heard directly from scholarship recipient Norah McCormick. Norah, a recent graduate of Loudoun Valley High School and the Loudoun Academy of Science, shared a story that began not in a classroom—but in her family’s barn.
As a child, she helped care for a newly hatched turkey vulture. When the bird later died from lead poisoning, the loss left a lasting impression. What might have been a fleeting childhood moment instead became a turning point, igniting a passion for environmental protection and a commitment to preventing similar harm.
That experience ultimately shaped Norah’s future. As the recipient of the Plein Environmental Scholarship Fund, she will now pursue environmental studies with both purpose and peace of mind—free from the financial burden that can often stand in the way.
More importantly, she moves forward with the knowledge that an entire community is standing behind her and her mission.
Stories like Norah’s are at the heart of CFNOVA’s work. They are reminders that scholarships are not simply financial awards—they are catalysts. They turn moments of inspiration into lifelong pursuits, barriers into stepping stones, and individual ambitions into collective progress.
And this is only the beginning for these students.
As they step onto college campuses and into new opportunities, they carry with them more than funding. They carry encouragement, belief, and the shared investment of a region that is rooting for their success—not just in school, but in life.
Hear Norah's Story
Learn More
To learn more about CFNOVA’s scholarship programs or how you can help support future students, visit our Scholarships page.
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