CSU Wilson C. Riles Educational Scholarship

2026-2027 Academic Year Award

Working his way through public instruction, Wilson C. Riles began his career in 1940 as a teacher and administrator in Arizona public schools and later became the first elected African American state superintendent of schools in the United States.

The scholarship program was established in 2003 to recognize Superintendent Riles’ deep commitment to education through support of students enrolled in California State University teacher credential programs. Preference will be given to first-generation college students.

Applicants:

  • Applicants must be currently enrolled in a teacher credential program and enrolled in a minimum of 6.0 units.
  • Graduate students must enroll in 6 units or more during the awarding terms.
  • Must have a GPA greater than or equal to a 3.0.
  • Must request one letter of recommendation via the myMatador Scholarships portal.
  • Submit an Unofficial Transcript.
  • Upload a Student Resume/CV.
  • Submit Personal Statement essays.

CSUN will review and nominate one eligible candidate in accordance with CSU Foundation guidelines.

Prior to fund distribution, selected recipients must submit a letter of appreciation addressed to Mr. Philip G. Riles.

Award amount: Three (3) $2,750 scholarships will be awarded for the academic year among the 22 CSU Campuses. Each campus selects one recipient based on the recommendation of teaching credential program faculty.


Please note: Any change to your enrollment status resulting in less than required enrollment for any term within the award year will result in a cancellation of your award. If you are receiving Financial Aid (including loans), your financial aid award(s) may be adjusted if you receive a scholarship amount that exceeds your financial aid total limit. Speak to a financial aid counselor during walk-in hours to get a detailed overview about your individual situation.

For more information on this and other CSU Systemwide scholarships, please visit https://www.csun.edu/financialaid/csu-foundation

Award
Three (3) awards of $2,750
Scopes
CSU Systemwide Scholarships
Deadline
04/12/2026
Supplemental Questions
  1. Please upload: A brief Personal Statement describing your background, personal achievements, challenges you have encountered, educational pursuits and goals and aspirations for the future. In the top right-hand corner of your word document, write your name, student ID#, and the words: Personal Statement. Use 12-point font, and one-inch margins.
  2. What do you think it means to be a CSUN Matador?
  3. Please upload: A copy of your student resume/CV.
  4. Please upload: A copy of your unofficial transcripts
  5. Please request: A letter of recommendation from a CSUN teaching credential program faculty member.
  6. If selected as an award recipient I agree to complete and submit a thank you letter for the scholarship donor.
  7. What experience has impacted your personal growth?
  8. Tell us about a time you failed. What did you learn from that experience?
  9. Why are you pursuing your major? How does it relate to your career aspirations?
  10. Provide an example of service beyond the classroom (i.e., have you taken on significant family obligations, helped others in a specific way, been involved in political action, worked/volunteered/interned at a particular organization, etc.). Why is this example significant to you?
  11. Show 5 more