At the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts (PAFA), the word "passion" circulates widely among the faculty, staff, students, and their families.  There are other fields that include dedication to a singular focus, but it is in the arts that these feelings rise beyond interest, curiosity, or dedication, and move into the realm of passion. Here at America’s first school of fine arts and museum, the passion combines with an unrivaled tradition and history that dates back over 200 years.

Students enrolled in the Certificate, BFA, Post Baccalaureate, and MFA programs have sacrificed much to pursue their passion.  Over 80% of current students receive some type of financial assistance, and a majority of them work one or several jobs to make ends meet.  The leadership of the School of Fine Arts and members of the PAFA community work hard to assist our students in whatever way we can.  We cannot do it alone.  Outside funding from organizations, groups, and individuals represents only 21% of our yearly scholarship efforts.  We are seeking your help to change this. 

This campaign was created to show the potential scholarship donor a small sample of real students’ stories.  Real students who work hard at their craft, and who would not ask you – on their own – for assistance.   We are asking on their behalf.  Now more than ever, with shrinking financial resources and a scarcity of scholarship opportunities in the fine arts, our students need your help.  As one student indicated: "every nickel that is not scholarship is future debt."

To read more about our students, and to hear some of their stories, see the Appeals section to the right.

100% of your contributions to The Friends of PAFA Scholarship Fund goes to the students. The Friends of PAFA Scholarship Fund is a general scholarship support fund available to all PAFA students. Your donations will not necessarily support the individual students whose testimonies appear on this site.