The Roscoe & Martha Shields Theology Award
Presented by Metro Funnels, LLC.
Discover The Roscoe & Martha Shields Theology Award: Elevating theological education and fostering scholarly achievements in partnership with Metro Funnels, LLC.
Purpose of Our Scholarship
In honor of the living legacy, faith, and dedication of Elder Roscoe and Martha Shields, Metro Funnels, LLC is proud to establish this special theology award. This scholarship aims to empower and support the next generation of faith leaders, thinkers, and ministers studying within the Religion and Theology Department at Oakwood University.
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Award Amount
Total Award: $2,500
Distribution: Disbursed as a single payment sent directly to Oakwood University to cover tuition, mandatory enrollment fees, or required educational materials.
Key Timelines
Applications Open: Wednesday, August 6, 2026
Submission Deadline: Friday, August 21, 2026, by 5:00 PM Central Time
Winner Announced: September 1, 2026
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for consideration, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Must be currently enrolled as a full-time student at Oakwood University.
Must be a declared major within the Department of Religion & Theology.
Must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale.
Must not be an employee, contractor, or immediate family member of an employee/contractor at Metro Funnels, LLC and/or Seventh-day Adventist Denomination.
Submission Requirements
Applicants must submit the following items through our online portal by 5:00 PM CT on Friday, August 21, 2026:
Proof of Enrollment: A copy of your current class schedule or an unofficial transcript from Oakwood University showing your theology major status.
Letter of Recommendation: One letter from a local pastor, mentor, or faculty member detailing your commitment to faith and leadership.
The Essay: A 500-to-700-word response to the prompt below.
The Essay Prompt
"In honor of Elder Roscoe and Martha Shields, this award supports future faith leaders who champion spiritual and emotional health. In 500 to 700 words, discuss how a minister or faith leader can actively move away from institutional defensiveness—the tendency to protect the organization's reputation over the well-being of its people—and instead cultivate emotional safety, accountable leadership, and disciplined repair within their congregation or community. Use specific theological or scriptural principles to support your framework."
Selection Process
All eligible submissions will be evaluated by an independent review panel appointed by Metro Funnels, LLC. Applications will be scored objectively based on essay depth, academic commitment, and community impact.
Testimonials
Jasmine Richards
Received a scholarship grant last fall—truly a blessing! Also, commend their funding for cutting-edge research. Great support for theology students like me.
Monica Chandler
The research funding here is genuinely top-notch, unlike some other places. The annual conferences are also insightful with a great network of theologians.
Thomas Krazinski
The community outreach programs are genuinely impactful. Participated casually, saw real dedication. Good efforts bridging theological insights with practical community work. Worth exploring.
FAQs
Answers to Your Queries on Theology Scholarships and Services
Does the scholarship check go directly to me?
No. To comply with corporate tax regulations, Metro Funnels, LLC will mail the $2,500 check directly to the Oakwood University Office of Financial Aid. The funds will be credited straight to your student account to cover tuition, enrollment fees, and required textbooks.
Who can apply for the Scholarship Grants?
You must be a declared major within the Department of Religion & Theology at Oakwood University to qualify. If you are enrolled full-time and your academic record reflects a major in this department, you are eligible.
Can I apply if I have a 2.4 GPA but have strong pastoral recommendations?
The minimum cumulative GPA required for this award is a 2.5 on a 4.0 scale. To maintain an objective evaluation process for all applicants, exceptions cannot be made.
Who should write my letter of recommendation?
Your letter should come from a local pastor, ministry mentor, or an Oakwood faculty member who can personally speak to your faith journey, character, and leadership potential.
What file formats are accepted for the upload portal?
Please upload all documents (transcripts, letters, and essays) in standard PDF or Word document (.docx) formats to ensure our review panel can easily open and read your files.
What if my recommender wants to send the letter privately?
If your pastor or mentor prefers to submit their recommendation directly to us, they can email it to [email protected] with your full name in the subject line. It must still arrive before the Friday 5:00 PM CT deadline.
Who evaluates the essays?
To ensure complete fairness, all identifying information (like your name) will be masked from your submission. A 3-person independent panel of ministry and community leaders will score the blind essays using a standardized grading rubric.