Scholarship America established the Barry Griswell Scholarship as a tribute to Barry’s unyielding commitment to students. Designed to provide financial, social and cultural support to students, this memorial program embodies more than a scholarship – it’s a pathway to achievement and success.
About Barry Griswell
As a young man in Atlanta, raised in the shadow of physical and mental abuse, Barry faced great odds against achieving college success. Resources were scarce; his mother worked multiple jobs, but it wasn’t always enough to get by, and his community lacked guidance and empathy.
However, he was determined to rise above his circumstances, and knew education could help him find a path out. Barry worked to expand his network through involvement in community organizations, athletics and mentorships, and was soon on the path to great achievements.
By focusing on academics and fostering his talent for basketball, Barry secured a full scholarship to Georgia’s Berry College. He followed his bachelor’s degree with an MBA from Stetson University.
In 1988, he and his wife Michele (his high-school sweetheart) relocated to Des Moines, Iowa, where he took a job with Principal Financial. Twenty years later, Barry retired as Principal’s CEO, and spent the rest of his life pursuing community improvement and volunteer work. Barry was a dedicated, active and forward-thinking member of Scholarship America’s Board of Trustees.
About the Barry Griswell Scholarship
This program provides an opportunity to take the lessons of Barry’s life and work and use them to create more impact. Scholars will be able to count on financial, cultural and social support from Scholarship America – and they’ll be able to count on each other for inspiration and connection.
The initiative begins by establishing an endowed, high-dollar $25,000 per year scholarship, renewable for up to five years with cohorts consisting of up to ten students per year. Click here for more information and to see the giving opportunities. If you’re interested in honoring Barry’s legacy and impacting the lives of students, download a donation form or click the button below to donate online now.
