Military Spouses & Dependents Scholarships
Carroll H. Payne Memorial Scholarship
Who is it for?
Military Family Members and Military Affiliated Organizations
About Scholarship
The Carroll H. Payne (CHP) Memorial Scholarship is FCEF’s flagship scholarship program. Created in 2005 by the Payne family to honor the legacy of Carroll H. Payne, founder of First Command Financial Services. Their generous $500,000 gift enabled FCEF to expand scholarship opportunities for military families nationwide.
The CHP Scholarship is built through partnerships with military-affiliated organizations, working alongside FCFS advisors and community groups to increase local scholarship access. FCEF proudly collaborates with organizations such as the Monterey Bay Spouses Club, the East Bay Coast Guard Spouses Club, and the Military Spouses of Newport.
How to become a partner
Interested in partnering with FCEF?
2025 CHP Scholarship PArtners
Impact Spotlight: Jennifer Barnhill (Military Spouse Scholarship Recipient, 2020)
Photo courtesy of Jennifer Barnhill. Since earning her scholarship, Jennifer has completed a master’s degree, had her work cited by the White House, been featured by UNC, been invited to become a Bush Institute Stand-To Veteran Leadership Program Scholar, and been named the 2025 Armed Forces Insurance Navy Spouse of the Year.
Military Spouse Scholarship
Who is it for?
Military Spouses
About Scholarship
Military spouses make unique sacrifices for their families. They often put their education, careers, and goals on hold due to the demands of supporting their spouses’ service to our country, including frequent relocations and deployments.
What it funds: “GED to PhD” — traditional college/graduate programs, vocational/trade school, continuing education certifications, and GED programs.
Award amounts: FCEF seeks to award $25,000 per year in military spouse scholarships.
How to apply
Eligible candidates may submit their applications directly to https://FCEF.awardspring.com. The application period is from October 1 – 31.
Jim Lanier Memorial Scholarship
Who is it for?
Dependents of active duty service members from all branches of the military
About Scholarship
Colonel James (Jim) Lanier lived a life defined by service, leadership, faith, and generosity. Commissioned into the U.S. Army in 1961, he served with distinction for 22 years, earning numerous honors and graduating from both the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College and the National War College. After retiring as a Colonel, he began a second career with First Command Financial Services, where he later served as President and Chairman of the Board.
While his professional accomplishments were significant, Jim was most admired for his character, a man of deep faith who quietly sought opportunities to serve others. He believed leadership was a responsibility and helping those in need was a calling.
Established by his family, the Colonel James (Jim) Newton Lanier Memorial Scholarship honors his enduring commitment to service by investing in the future of those who serve. This scholarship supports high school and college students who are children of active duty service members and are pursuing undergraduate or vocational degrees, ensuring that his spirit of generosity continues to create opportunities for the next generation.
How to apply
Ideal candidates demonstrate excellence in academics and active involvement in extracurricular activities such as athletics, community service, and or employment.
Applicants must be:
- Dependents of active duty service members from all branches of the military
- High school or college students
- Pursuing undergraduate programs or vocational education
Application Details:
Applications are accepted from May 1 to May 31
Interested candidates may submit their applications directly to FCEF
