The Ricky Kirton Memorial Culinary Arts Scholarship

The Ricky Kirton Memorial Culinary Arts Scholarship was established to honor the memory of Ricky Kirton who, in August of 2020, passed away as a result of complications from a long term illness. Ricky always had a strong passion for being in the kitchen. However, becoming a vegetarian prompted him to dive head-first into the world of cooking. He loved discovering new recipes and the realization that his life could be more than just salads. Through this scholarship program, we hope to extend that love to students looking to study and work in the field of culinary arts. Additionally, we hope students will use their gained expertise in the field to help find creative ways to make a positive impact on world hunger. 

Each year a $500 scholarship will be awarded to each of up to three promising students interested in studying in the culinary arts. This scholarship intends to respect the love Ricky had for all things food, from home cooked meals to fine dining, as well as defray the increasing cost of higher education. 

To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must be actively enrolled in a culinary arts program in a college, university or trade school. Applicants must be attending school in Maryland and have an expressed love for food and cooking. Students who have volunteered in any capacity to help mitigate the world hunger crisis are encouraged to apply.

Awarding of the Ricky Kirton Memorial Culinary Arts Scholarship is contingent upon several criteria including: acceptance to and enrollment in a two or four year college, university or accredited trade school; a completed application with all required attachments; and an essay. The essay should be a minimum of 300 words, and should detail any significant, relevant accomplishments, volunteer efforts and goals.

Scholarship recipients are expected to use their resources wisely and responsibly and uphold a high standard of conduct.

The Ricky Kirton Memorial Culinary Arts Scholarship award is an outright grant. Although recipients are under no obligation to make repayment, it is hoped that once graduated they will honor the memory of Ricky Kirton by engaging in a productive career in the culinary arts.

How to Apply:

Applications can be completed using the online form (click here), or printed out, completed, then scanned and emailed (be sure to include the scholarship name in the subject line). All required attachments must be submitted at the same time your application is submitted. DO NOT send materials separately. Only those applications completed online, or sent via email will be given consideration.

Your completed application, including all attachments, can be submitted via email to RickyKirtonMSF@gmail.com with the name of the scholarship in the subject line of your email. The deadline for applying is July 31, 2025. 

Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

Your application will be reviewed by members of the Scholarship Committee and the fund holder. Selection will be based on a student’s commitment to studying culinary arts, overall academic progress and involvement in extracurricular activities.

Finalists may be contacted for an interview. Students will be notified by email of any scholarship award on or before August 31, 2025.

Application Requirements*:

Completed and signed application submitted by July 31, 2025.

Most recent academic transcript showing a GPA of at least 2.5.

Letter of recommendation

An essay must accompany your application. It must be typed, single spaced using 12 point,

Times New Roman font; it should contain no fewer than 300 words; and should be no more two pages long.

Essay Question/Topic: What are your academic/professional goals? How will this scholarship make a difference for you in your pursuit of higher education and reaching those goals? 

*Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Contact:

The Ricky Kirton Memorial Culinary Arts Scholarship

PO Box 115

Millersville, MD 21108

Contact@TheRickyKirtonMSF.org

(301) 485-6227