Raymond Bruce Vere Nicoll Polo Scholarship Fund

The Raymond Bruce Vere Nicoll Polo Scholarship Fund is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting students involved in the polo program at the University of Virginia. Established in 1975, the fund aims to provide financial assistance to academically qualified students who demonstrate an ability and interest in polo.

Purpose and Activities

The primary purpose of the fund is to offer financial aid to individual polo club members who are in need, helping to cover expenses such as tuition and housing costs. Additionally, the fund can be used for fixed capital improvements to the polo facility and to keep membership dues minimal for all participants.

Eligibility and Application Process

Eligibility for the scholarship requires students to be academically qualified, demonstrate a strong interest and ability in polo, and show character and industry proven through their involvement with the Virginia Polo Club. Applications are accepted annually during the winter months, with a deadline typically set for mid-February. Interviews with applicants take place shortly after the application deadline, and decisions on funding are communicated by early May.

Requirements and Expectations

To maintain eligibility for funding, recipients must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0 and conduct themselves in a manner that positively reflects on the University of Virginia and its polo program. The fund's board encourages scholarship recipients to support the fund after graduation, ensuring its continued ability to assist deserving students in the future.

Tax Status and Structure

The Raymond Bruce Vere Nicoll Polo Scholarship Fund is tax-exempt and classified under the National Taxonomy of Exempt Entities (NTEE) as an educational institution focused on scholarships and student financial aid. The organization operates as a private foundation with a board of trustees overseeing its activities and governance. Key officers include Joel Gibbons, Jeffrey Schlesinger, Marina Vere Nicoll, Roderick Vere Nicoll, and Jessica Schmidt, none of whom receive compensation for their roles.

Operational Framework

The fund is managed by a board of directors who review applications and determine the distribution of financial assistance on a case-by-case basis. The organization's operational framework emphasizes the importance of supporting students committed to the polo program, fostering a community that values both academic excellence and athletic dedication.