Eddie Ashley Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Ahlsten Foundation
Who was Eddie Ashley?
Eddie Ashley was a student of Doris Ahlsten at Oakland Technical High School and graduated in 2010. As a child, Eddie and his twin younger sisters lost their mother to lupus and kidney failure. The family’s loss led to the siblings moving among relatives, and at one point Eddie became separated from his sisters. Throughout these hardships he carried himself without complaint or excuse. After high school he earned a B.S. in Environmental Science from UC Riverside in 2014. Eddie now lives in Oakland with his wife, Anastasia, and works as the Recycling Coordinator for Pleasanton Garbage Service, where he provides environmental education to businesses and multi-family properties and helps ensure compliance with county and state waste-management regulations. In recognition of his humility, perseverance, and resilience, this scholarship bears his name.
Purpose
The Eddie Ashley Scholarship provides $25,000 to a college-bound high school senior. Awards are made based on character, financial need, and academic performance.
Eligibility
- Must be a graduating senior from one of the following high schools: De Anza High, El Cerrito High, Kennedy High, Oakland High, Richmond High, or San Rafael High; OR a graduating senior participating with Catalyst Youth Network or SOAR for Youth.
- Minimum overall high school GPA: 3.0.
- Must demonstrate low-income status.
- Demonstrated personal strengths and character.
- Must enroll in a U.S. college or accredited trade school in Fall 2026 (no gap years allowed).
- Applicants must submit a copy of their FAFSA or CADAA submission summary.
Selection criteria
Recipients are chosen on the basis of academic record, financial need, and evidence of strong personal character.
Scholarship award details
The total award is $25,000 per scholar, paid over four years (for example, $6,250 per year), contingent on continued enrollment and academic standing. Scholars must maintain a minimum 2.0 term GPA while in college. If a term GPA falls below 2.0, disbursement of funds will be paused until the scholar’s term GPA reaches at least 2.0. In addition to financial support, each recipient will receive personalized coaching from Beyond12 to help with academic, social, and emotional needs during their college years.
Application deadline
- Online applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 5, 2026. Applications received after this time will not be accepted.
- Paper applications must be postmarked by Saturday, April 4, 2026.
If selected
Scholarship recipients must attend a mandatory Zoom meeting on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m., and a scholarship recognition dinner on Sunday, June 7, 2026. Additional details will be provided to selected scholars.