Amelia and Emanuel Nessell Family Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation
Introduction
The Amelia and Emanuel Nessell Family Scholarship Fund provides financial assistance to students with demonstrated need, giving preferential consideration to Jewish applicants in accordance with the donors’ wishes. The fund was established in 1997 by relatives of Amelia and Emanuel Nessell as a memorial. The Nessell family settled in Duluth in 1920; Emanuel worked as a manager at the First Street Department Store. Their children—Sophie, Leonard, Louisa and Harry—attended Duluth public schools and graduated from Central High School. The scholarship reflects the Nessells’ commitment to higher education and support for students facing financial barriers.
Who is eligible
Applicants must meet all of the following to be considered:
- Graduate of a Duluth public or private school, including Duluth Denfeld, Duluth East, Area Learning Center, Harbor City International, Marshall School, or Lake View Academy.
- Demonstrate financial need as shown on the FAFSA.
- Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.
- Be actively involved in extracurricular activities.
Priority is given to Jewish graduates as stipulated by the founders.
Award amount and duration
- Award range: $1,250 to $1,500 per year.
- Award term: renewable for a second year (totaling $2,500 to $3,000 over two years).
Application process and cycle
- Grant cycle: Universal Application.
- Applications open: December 1, 2025.
- Deadline: February 24, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
- Applicants will be notified of award decisions by email no later than May 1, 2026.
Payment and allowable uses
- Funds may be applied to costs at any accredited college, university, or technical/vocational school.
- Payments are sent directly to the institution.
- Fall semester payments are mailed between July 15–30, 2026 (no later than July 30, 2026).
- Spring semester payments are mailed between December 15–30, 2026 (no later than December 30, 2026).
Changing schools
If you plan to transfer to a different institution, contact DSACF. Scholarships do not automatically move with a student. If a transfer occurs after funds have been disbursed, reprocessing can take up to 90 days.
Tax guidance
DSACF recommends recipients consult a tax professional about scholarship taxation. Per IRS rules, scholarship or fellowship grant amounts can be tax-free if:
- You are a candidate for a degree at an educational institution that has a regular faculty and curriculum and maintains enrolled students attending at that location; and
- The scholarship funds are used for tuition and fees required for enrollment or attendance, or for required fees, books, supplies, and equipment for courses.
For questions or to report a planned transfer, contact DSACF.