Terry Kuseske
LGBTQIA+ Youth Scholarship

2026 Application Open - Deadline: January 2, 2026 @ 11:59 PM

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TERRY KUSESKE (1949-2010)

Longtime educator, Kalamazoo City Commissioner and dedicated LGBTQIA+ rights advocate.

Terry Kuseske was a generous man who listened with love, shared his support, and did all he could to make a difference. Terry fought for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community for many years. He led the effort to pass Kalamazoo's Non-Discrimination Ordinance in 2009 and, that same year, Terry became the first openly gay individual elected as a City Commissioner of Kalamazoo.

Contributions to the Terry Kuseske LGBTQIA+ Youth Scholarship Fund can be made HERE.

Eligibility Requirements

The eligibility requirements for students interested in applying for the scholarship are as follows:

  • The student must be in their senior year of high school at a southwest Michigan public or private school.

  • The student must plan to attend a public or private college or university in Michigan during the fall semester following high school graduation.

  • The student must have an overall high school GPA of 2.0 or higher.

  • The student must demonstrate an active interest in serving the LGBTQIA+ community.

Application Requirements

To be considered, each applicant must submit:

  • A completed scholarship application.

  • A brief essay (see essay instructions on application).

  • At least one letter of recommendation from a qualified professional (e.g., teacher, advisor, supervisor, volunteer director, etc.) with direct first-hand knowledge of the applicant.

The Terry Kuseske LGBTQIA+ Youth Scholarship is given annually to to a Southwest Michigan student who has shown leadership on issues affecting LGBTQIA+ individuals.

Up to two applicants are selected each year to receive this $1000 scholarship. The scholarship winners are invited to be honored at our Winter Gala Awards Ceremony alongside other people and groups being recognized for their notable contributions to OutFront Kalamazoo and the LGBTQIA+ community.

Once chosen, the scholarship recipient will need to submit an acceptance letter or proof of enrollment from a degree or certificate-granting institution before funds will be awarded.

Apply Here