Durango Coca-Cola Bottling Company has been a cornerstone of the Four Corners region since its local franchise was established in 1915. Guided for generations by the Mapel family, the company grew from early wagon-based distribution into an innovative, award-winning bottler and employer, while remaining deeply rooted in community service. Durango Coca-Cola has long believed that “if it is good for our communities, it is good for our company,” a philosophy reflected in decades of support for education, youth programs, arts, healthcare, and local events.

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Through its partnership with the Durango Education Foundation, the Durango Coca-Cola Scholarship invests directly in local students pursuing higher education. The scholarship supports graduating seniors attending a four-year Colorado college, with preference for Fort Lewis College, helping students build strong futures while honoring the company’s enduring commitment to the region it proudly serves.

 

SCHOLARSHIP DETAILS
Awarded by: Durango Coca-Cola Company

Award Amount: TBD paid directly to a 4-year college or university in Colorado
Selection: Recipients will be selected by the DEF Scholarship Committee. Preference will be given to students planning to attend Fort Lewis College.
 

ELIGIBILITY AND REQUIREMENTS
To be eligible, applicants must:

• Be graduating from Durango High School or Big Picture High School in good academic and behavioral standing

• Have earned a minimum of a 2.75 GPA in high school

• Be planning to attend a four-year college or university in Colorado
   

INDIVIDUAL SCHOLARSHIP REQUIREMENTS

1. A COMPLETE APPLICATION

2. Academic Transcript: 2.75 minimum GPA

   • ​A complete senior transcript showing sustained GPA may be required before the award is remitted to the student’s choice of college.

3. Statement of Financial Need

   • Please share anything about your family financial situation and/or your financial situation that will help us understand your need for college scholarship assistance. (approximately 250 words)

4. TWO Letters of Recommendation

   • Letters should be from teachers, staff members, or employers who have worked directly with the applicant in high school. They should address high school accomplishments and the applicant’s potential for future success.

5. #1 College and Career Essay:

   • What are your education and career goals? What makes you passionate about this future path? What have you done so far to pursue these future goals? What will you be doing 1 and 5 years after college graduation? (600 words maximum)

6. #2 Obstacles Essay:

   • What challenge, big or small, are you proud to have persevered through, and what challenges, as you enter college, do you still have ahead of you? (300 words maximum)