The Pat Tillman Foundation has announced the opening of the annual application process for the Tillman Scholars program for eligible active-duty service members, veterans and military spouses. Applications to join the 2018 class of Tillman Scholars will remain open until Thursday, March 1, at 11:59 p.m. (Pacific Time).

By virtue of its support for military veterans and spouses, the University of Arizona is a partner with the foundation.

"The University of Arizona is honored to be one of only 15 partner institutions with the Pat Tillman Foundation," said Carmin Chan of the UA Eller College of Management, who oversees the program for the UA. "One of the benefits of being a partner institution is that the UA is guaranteed at least one new Tillman Scholar each year. With so many outstanding student veterans and military spouses attending the UA, we encourage everyone to learn more about this opportunity and apply to become a Tillman Scholar.

"Tillman Scholars represent some of the best and brightest from the military-affiliated community. Beyond the monetary benefits, Tillman Scholars are plugged into an incredibly talented scholar network and professional development offered by the Pat Tillman Foundation. The program allows these exceptional students to pursue their passions and continue their commitment to service."

Founded in 2008, the Tillman Scholars program covers direct study-related expenses, including tuition and fees, living expenses, and books for scholars who are pursuing an undergraduate, graduate or professional degree as a full-time student at a public or private, U.S.-based accredited institution.

"The most essential qualities of great leadership are humility, dedication to service and passion for lifelong learning,” said Marie Tillman, board chair and co-founder of the Pat Tillman Foundation. "The Tillman Scholars' commitment to these principles shows in the incredible impact they are making on their chosen fields of study and in the communities they serve. They are the next generation of public and private sector leaders, and we're confident the ripple effect of their impact will change lives at home and around the world."

The selection process for the Tillman Scholars program is highly competitive, with up to 60 Tillman Scholars chosen annually. For the current selection cycle, applicants will receive notification of selection results no later than May. Scholarships will be granted for the 2018-2019 academic year and are eligible for renewal.

Applicants are encouraged to connect with the staff from the UA's Veterans Education and Transition Services, or VETS, office if they have any questions or need assistance during the application process. The VETS Center can be reached via email at VETSofc@arizona.edu or at either of these main-campus locations:

SUMC VETS Center, Room 404
1303 E. University Blvd.
Tucson, AZ 85721-0017
520-626-8380

AHSC VETS Center, Room 2101G
1501 N. Campbell Ave.
Tucson, AZ 85724-5079
520-626-0772

For specific details on Tillman Scholars eligibility and to apply online, visit: http://pattillmanfoundation.org/apply

To explore the profiles of Tillman Scholars and learn about their impact, visit: http://pattillmanfoundation.org/scholars