Phi Delta Theta received its first official scholarship recognized by Kent State University.

The Paul C. Kitchin Jr. Phi Delta Theta Scholarship will be awarded each year to a Phi Delta Theta with at least a sophomore standing who maintains a minimum 2.5 GPA and demonstrates the Phi Delta Theta principles.

The scholarship’s name is in honor of the founder of Phi Delta Theta’s chapter at Kent State University, Paul C. Kitchin Jr.

A Kent native, Kitchin, 97, is a former professor  at Kent State and taught political science from 1948 until his retirement in 1977. 

Members of Phi Delta Theta said Kitchin is the exemplifying brother and they are honored to have a scholarship in his name. 

According to Sam Bluso, a Phi Delta Theta alumnus involved with the scholarship, the winner is chosen by someone who demonstrates academic merit, has a financial need, has diversity of background, strength of character and community service and leadership.

Members are eligible to apply for the scholarship by filling out applications and writing an essay explaining why they should be awarded the scholarship.

After all applications are filed, they are reviewed by a panel of alumni judges, who decide the recipient of the scholarship.

“We are always seeking to improve our brothers time here at Kent State and this scholarship will help do more for our brothers lives,” said Kirk Baglia, Phi Delta Theta President and junior finance major  .

Alumnus Bob Mather served as the leader of the panel and was instrumental in getting the scholarship recognized by the university. Phi Delta Theta has raised over $30,000 for the scholarship and intends to raise  $100,000 by 2017.

The first recipient of the scholarship, Andrew Haders, a senior exercise science major, received $1,600 in scholarship.

Haders also received a spread on Phi Delta Theta’s national news letter, a feature on its Instagram, and was presented the award at a ceremony in front of the entire chapter. Kitchin, Mathers and Bluso were all in attendance to present Haders the award. 

“I applied because I knew most of the brothers were too lazy to do it, so I knew I had a pretty good chance in winning. Hey, its free money, I’m glad I did!” Haders said.

To learn more about Kitchin, visit http://www.library.kent.edu/paul-c-kitchin-jr-papers-faculty-political-science