Honoring a Life of Service: The John Anthony Carbone, Jr. Memorial Scholarship
Honoring a Life of Service The John Anthony Carbone Jr. Memorial Scholarship Blog Image

Applications are now open for the John Anthony Carbone, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, supporting ECPI University students pursuing careers in nursing and health science.

ECPI University is partnering with the Carbone family to honor John “JJ” Carbone, Jr., who is remembered for his optimism, generosity, and lifelong belief in the power of education. The John Anthony Carbone, Jr. Memorial Scholarship reflects his wish to help others learn and build meaningful lives.

The scholarship was created by Navy Captain (Ret.) John A. Carbone and Mary Lois Carbone in memory of their son, who passed away on May 11, 2023. Through this scholarship, his life of perseverance and compassion continues to create opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals.

Turning Challenges into a Legacy of Giving

Born in 1964 in Charleston, South Carolina, John faced medical and developmental challenges from an early age. At that time, few public programs supported children with special learning needs, so his parents sought schools that helped him build both skills and confidence.

Despite his challenges, John was known for his steady work ethic and kind spirit. Throughout his life, he worked in restaurants and sheltered workshops, as well as on local fishing piers. He regularly volunteered with Toys for Tots and donated blood, earning him formal recognition from both the U.S. Marine Corps and the Red Cross.

Those who knew John remember a man who gave quietly and lived with purpose, guided by his belief that education provides the means to help others.

The scholarship that bears his name is funded by his own personal savings, built up over many years. What he left behind has now become a lasting resource to help students looking to make a difference.

Investing in Future Healthcare Professionals

To honor John’s outlook and determination, the Carbone family and ECPI University jointly established a $20,000 scholarship fund. It awards $1,000 per academic year ($500 per semester) to nursing and health science students in Hampton Roads who demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, and a desire to serve others.

Across the Commonwealth, a shortage of nurses and healthcare workers continues to grow. As hospitals, clinics, and care facilities struggle to fill essential roles, the need for accessible healthcare education has never been greater. This scholarship strengthens ECPI University’s efforts to prepare graduates to meet that need.

How to Apply for the Scholarship

To be eligible for the John Anthony Carbone, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, applicants must

  • Be enrolled or planning to enroll full-time in Nursing or Health Science programs at ECPI University.
  • Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and a satisfactory attendance record.
  • Reside in the Hampton Roads area, with preference to residents in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, and Norfolk.
  • Demonstrate financial need as determined by the Financial Aid Office.
  • Submit a 250-word essay describing their motivation to pursue a career as a healthcare professional.

For full information, students should contact ECPI University’s Financial Aid Office at 844.334.446 or financialaid@ecpi.edu.

Students are strongly encouraged to submit their applications before the end of 2025 for the best chance of consideration.

Continuing a Spirit of Service

ECPI University is deeply grateful to the Carbone family for honoring John’s memory through this scholarship. Their generosity ensures that his spirit of service endures, supporting students who share his dedication to helping others and serving their communities.