Bernard B. and Mary L. Brusin Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation
Each year Boreal Waters distributes more than $800,000 in scholarships to learners in northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin. Funded by donors — individuals, families, and organizations — these awards support students of all ages as they pursue postsecondary education, expand opportunities, and contribute to their communities. If you’re preparing for college, a technical program, or another form of postsecondary study, search our scholarship listings to find awards that align with your background, interests, and place of residence.
Most Boreal Waters scholarships are accessed through our universal application, which opens in December 2025 and closes on February 24, 2026.
Bernard B. and Mary L. Brusin Scholarship Fund
Established in 1987 in memory of Bernard and Mary Brusin, longtime residents of Duluth, this scholarship honors the Brusins’ belief in the value of higher education and their desire to assist those with financial need. Reflecting the couple’s religious backgrounds, the fund is reserved for students who are Jewish or Roman Catholic.
Eligibility
Applicants must be graduates of one of the following schools:
Area Learning Center; Cherry Secondary School; Chisholm High School; Duluth Denfeld High School; Duluth East High School; East Range Academy; Eveleth-Gilbert High School; Floodwood Secondary School; Harbor City International School; Hermantown Senior High School; Hibbing Senior High School; Lakeview Christian Academy; Marshall School; Memorial Secondary School; Mesabi East Secondary School; Mountain Iron–Buhl Secondary School; North Woods School; Northeast Range School; Proctor Senior High School; South Ridge School; Northeast Range High School; Virginia Secondary School; Rock Ridge High School; or Maranatha Academy.
In addition to graduating from one of the listed schools, eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, identify as Jewish or Roman Catholic, and show a strong history of community service or volunteer involvement.
Award
$5,000–$10,000 per year, renewable for up to four years (total award range: $20,000–$40,000).
Grant cycle
Application via the Boreal Waters universal application.