Established in 2004

Eligibility: Eligible applicants are rising sophomores, juniors, seniors in college, and graduate students at an accredited college, university or institute full-time or part-time (6 or more credit hours). One scholarship will be granted to students enrolled in a Bachelors of Fine Art (BFA), a BA in Studio Art, or a Masters of Fine Arts (MFA). Fine Art or Studio Art is limited to a major course of study in Painting, Drawing, Sculpture, Ceramics, Photography or Printmaking. A second scholarship will be made to a Music Degree granting program (Bachelor or Masters) with preference given to those students pursuing a course of study in acoustic mandolin or acoustic guitar. Applicants must maintain a 3.0 or better GPA.

Cynthia and Alan Baran have a great passion for the arts. After 25 years in the corporate world, Cynthia followed her passion for the arts and enrolled in fine art classes at two local universities. Alan’s interest in music, specifically the mandolin and guitar, has provided him with a creative outlet from his work in the nonprofit sector. This Fund was established to help provide an opportunity for young people to pursue their passion early in life in the areas of visual arts and music.