Established in 2004 by Lawrence “Pat” and Mary Ellen Hughes, the Hughes Tools Scholarship Fund was created to provide student in select vocational programs with the tools necessary for their academic success and career readiness. In 2025, the fund expanded into the Hughes Vocational Excellence Fund, broadening its impact to include the acquisition of new tools and equipment for current programs and providing launch funding for new vocational programs.
Mary Ellen Hughes was a devoted philanthropist, passionate about education, the arts, and medical research. She activity supported numerous institutions and quietly provided funding for students in need. Pat Hughes, a Grays Harbor College alumnus and successful business leader, has dedicated his life to supporting education and vocational training. Together, their vision has transformed the futures of countless students, ensuring they are equipped not just with knowledge but with essential tools for success. Through the Hughes Vocational Excellence Fund, their legacy will continue to impact generations of students at Grays Harbor College.
Enrollment in an Eligible Program
- Applicants must be currently enrolled in one of the authorized vocational programs listed under the Hughes Tools Program. Only students enrolled in these approved programs are eligible to apply.
Application Submission
- All applicants must complete and submit the required Hughes Tools Program application. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Quarterly Application Availability
- Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Students may apply in any quarter during the academic year.
Award Notification Timing
- If an application is approved, award notifications will be issued after the College’s scheduled Withdrawal Date, commonly referred to as “W” Day, for the quarter in which the application was submitted.
One-Time Award Limit
- Each student is eligible to receive only one Hughes Tools award during their time at the College. This remains the case even if the student later enrolls in a second eligible program of study.
Award Amounts
| Course of Study | Maximum Scholarship Amount |
|---|---|
| Automotive | $1,500 |
| Carpentry | $1,500 |
| CDL | $300 |
| Culinary | $350 |
| Diesel | $1,500 |
| Forestry (AA or BAS) | $500 |
| Medical Assisting | $350 |
| Nursing | $1,250 |
| Welding | $1,500 |
If granted, the scholarship will be reported to Financial Aid, and the award amount may fluctuate depending on the availability within a student’s financial aid package.
Application Steps
- Apply using your GHC email (gmail, comcast, etc., tend to send our emails to junk).
- Prepare detailed responses for the following short essay questions:
- Describe who or what inspired you to choose your course of study.
- What traits or abilities do you possess that will help you excel in your education and future career?
- What does “work ethic” mean to you, and how will you apply it in college and the workforce?
- What are your plans after completing your degree at Grays Harbor College?
Get Assistance
If you have any questions about the Hughes Tools Scholarship or need assistance, please contact us at 360.538.2522 or scholarships@ghc.edu.
