Leo T. Walsh Scholarship

About

In 1994, a few dedicated United Irish Cultural Center members, led by Leo T. Walsh, created the Scholarship Program. It was the intention of the committee to have the Irish community, in association with the Center, come together to financially assist students entering their next level of education. By giving such support, the hope was that the annual recipients would then pay it forward to the next generation.

Leo Walsh passed away in 2003. Subsequently, the Irish Center memorialized Leo’s efforts by renaming the scholarship program to include his name and to forever honor his contribution of time and treasure. This year marks the 33rd year of his enduring legacy.

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Eligibility

This program is only open to eighth grade students and high school seniors. An eligible student must enroll in a school that requires tuition and/or fee in the 2026-2027 school year. Awards are only payable to the institution and must be used by March 17, 2027.

Application Packet

Applicants for the scholarship need to complete the application which includes submission of a recommendation and an essay.

Deadline

Completed applications must be submitted by Tuesday, March 17, 2026. The completed application includes the personal information sheet, recommendation, and essay.

Honor your Irish Heritage

If you are interested in learning more about the program, or interested in being a donor, volunteer or supporters of the program please contact us.

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Donate

Give a gift of Irish culture by making a tax-deductible donation to the UICC Leo T. Walsh Scholarship Program, benefitting 8th Grader and High School Senior finalists entering their next level of education.

Name a scholarship after your family, a relative, or beloved friend. $750 is the 8th Grade Award and $1,000 is the Senior Award, and any and all donations gladly accepted; 100% tax deductible.

Mail: Send checks made payable to UICC: Leo T. Walsh Scholarship Program, 2700 45th Avenue SF, CA 94116

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History

In 1994, a few dedicated United Irish Cultural Center (UICC) members, led by Leo Walsh, created the scholarship program with the intention of having the Irish community support education and financially assist students. In its first year two scholarships were awarded. Now in its 33rd year, the program has awarded over 700 scholarships to eighth graders and high school seniors continuing their education.