Cindy Luberto Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Connecticut Roller Derby

Description
**Purpose and focus**
The Cindy Luberto Athletic Scholarship recognizes passionate Connecticut athletes who identify as women or non-binary and who participate in recreational, community, or school athletics. It was created to celebrate athletic commitment across both traditional and non-traditional sports, reflecting the belief that diverse sporting backgrounds contribute to a well-rounded life and to the roller derby and broader athletic community. The scholarship supports students planning to attend college in the fall semester and emphasizes enthusiasm for sport over conventional measures of athletic prestige.

Key takeaways
- Honors Connecticut women/non-binary athletes from varied sporting backgrounds
- Values enthusiasm and commitment, not only traditional sport success
- Intended for students attending college in the upcoming fall semester

History of the Award
**Origins and dedication**
Established in 2012, the scholarship is named for Cindy Luberto in memory of the late sister of Jill Luberto (Paula G. ImNaughty), a former league member known for positivity and support. Connecticut Roller Derby created the award to extend athletic recognition beyond mainstream sports and to honor Cindy’s memory by supporting emerging student-athletes in the state. The scholarship reflects CTRD’s commitment to inclusion and community support.

Key takeaways
- Launched in 2012 by Connecticut Roller Derby (CTRD)
- Named in memory of Cindy Luberto
- Created to broaden athletic recognition and support inclusion

Eligibility Requirements
**Who may apply**
Applicants must identify as women or non-binary and be active in recreational, community, or school athletics during 2026. Candidates must be Connecticut residents or attending/planning to attend a Connecticut college or university in Fall 2026. Past or current CTRD members and immediate family of any current CTRD member are not eligible.

Key takeaways
- Open to students who identify as women or non-binary
- Participation in athletics in 2026 is required
- Must be a CT resident or attending a CT college in Fall 2026; CTRD members and immediate family are ineligible

Application Materials
**Required documents**
A complete application includes a 250-word essay describing the applicant’s passion for their sport (emphasizing its unique aspects or the applicant’s participation), a photograph of the applicant in action or representing their sport, and a letter of recommendation. Applicants must also submit a completed application form and agree to allow CTRD to use submitted information and the photograph in promotional materials. Applications must be submitted by the stated deadline to be considered.

Key takeaways
- 250-word essay focused on passion and uniqueness of the sport
- Action photograph and one letter of recommendation required
- Completed application and consent for promotional use must be submitted by deadline

Award Value and Payment
**Scholarship amounts and disbursement**
The scholarship awards a $1,000 first-place prize and a $500 runner-up prize; both awards are non-renewable. Payments are made directly to the recipient’s educational institution after CTRD verifies enrollment for the fall semester. Funds are intended for tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses.

Key takeaways
- First place: $1,000; Runner-up: $500 (both non-renewable)
- Scholarships are paid directly to the college or university
- Funds designated for tuition, fees, and education-related costs after enrollment verification

Selection Process and Verification
**Review and decision-making**
All submissions are reviewed by CTRD members and winners are selected by a league vote. CTRD may contact applicants and recommenders by email or brief telephone interview to verify or clarify information. Final award decisions follow the internal review and voting process.

Key takeaways
- Applications reviewed by CTRD members; winners chosen by league vote
- Applicants/recommenders may be contacted for verification or clarification
- Final decisions are determined through the league’s internal process

Application Timeline
**Typical sequence of steps**
While specific dates are announced with each cycle, the process generally follows this sequence: submit a complete application by the posted deadline; CTRD conducts its review and voting; winners are notified; CTRD verifies fall enrollment; and scholarship funds are disbursed to the institution. Applicants should monitor the official announcement for exact deadlines and submission details.

Key takeaways
- Follow the posted deadline for complete submissions
- CTRD review, league vote, winner notification, enrollment verification, then payment
- Check official announcements for exact dates and instructions