Student Scholarships
The Classical Association of Virginia is proud to sponsor two scholarships for students of its members: the Wayne Wray Scholarship, for the student who has done the most to promote and support the study of Latin, and the Jim Bigger Scholarship, for the most accomplished student. The person submitting the nomination does not need to specify which award is appropriate; the selection committee will look at all applications and determine which student is most deserving of each award.
The Wayne W. Wray
Student Scholarship
The Wayne Wray Student Scholarship is awarded thanks to an ongoing and generous gift from CAV member Wayne W. Wray. This $500.00 scholarship will be awarded to the student who most exemplifies the principles on which our organization was founded over a century ago: a love of and the promotion of the classics. The Wayne Wray Scholarship will be awarded to a student who is passionate about Latin and has demonstrated enthusiasm on every level: in their daily classroom work, participation in club activities, and promotion of Latin within their school and/or community. While participation in CAV (and other) contests is preferred, the primary focus of this scholarship remains the student’s ability to “spread the word” about classics and encourage others to study Latin.
The Jim Bigger
Memorial Scholarship
The Jim Bigger Memorial Scholarship, funded by donations from CAV members, is awarded to honor the memory of long-time Virginia teacher and CAV member Jim Bigger. This $500 scholarship will be awarded to a deserving senior who excels academically and who intends to continue their study of Latin and/or Greek in college.
How to Submit a Nomination
Any CAV member may nominate any student who is taking or has completed four or more years of Latin and/or Greek. There may be more than one nominee per school. These scholarships are not based on financial need and are not renewable. Students and teachers do not need to indicate which award they are applying to – the selection committee will determine the two awards from all applicants. Send the teacher’s nominating letter, the student’s letter explaining his or her relationship with Latin and worthiness for either scholarship, and a list of honors and awards the student has earned to:
Donald Brewster
Woodberry Forest School
4 Woodberry Station
Woodberry Forrest, VA 22989
All nominations are due by April 1.
Past Recipients
The Wayne Wray
Student Scholarship
2025: Alex Bakalov, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
2024: Will Gibbs, Rockbridge County High School
2023: Lauren Fisher, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
2022: Nicole Quiram, Midlothian HIgh School
The Jim Bigger
Memorial Scholarship
2025: Sabrina Gernhardt, Midlothian High School
2024: Avery Park, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology
2023: not awarded
2022: Ryan Dwyer, Thomas Jefferson High School for Science and Technology