How to Apply | Awards & Judging | Scholarship Committee
 
William R. Van Nattan (1921-1971) loved astronomy. His enthusiasm continues to enrich, enlighten, and capture the interest of others through his many and varied contributions to astronomy. He was a founding member of both the Denver Astronomical Society (DAS) and the National Amateur Astronomers (NAA). As chairman of the Denver Planetarium Committee in 1955, he was instrumental in providing a planetarium for the people of Denver at the Natural History Museum. For many years Van Nattan assisted in teaching astronomy at the University of Denver's Chamberlin Observatory.

Charles Hansen was also an avid supporter of Denver astronomy. Upon his death he left a significant portion of his estate to the Denver Astronomical Society for use in supporting the Fund.

To honor their memories, this scholarship fund was established by the Denver Astronomical Society in 1973. Through the gifts and contributions of many friends of astronomy, the Fund continues to provide scholarships to high school and undergraduate students of astronomy and physical sciences or mathematics.

Each year approximately two $1000 scholarships may be awarded to students in good academic standing who have demonstrated intent and merit to pursue a career in the physical sciences or mathematics. Priority shall be given to students of astronomy, astrophysics and related fields.
 
How To Apply

Applicants shall demonstrate that they meet the following criteria:
  • Applicants must either be graduating high school seniors or undergraduate college
    students in good standing.
  • Enrollment equivalent to a half-time load for the academic term as defined by the institution
  • Applicants will be considered no more than 5 times for a fulltime student and 8 times for a half-time student

All requests for consideration should be accompanied by the following information:

  • Transcripts showing a grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent)
  • A dated and signed letter of intent demonstrating the applicant's interest and the declared major
  • Letters of recommendation from at least 2 reputable sources

Information provided by all applicants becomes the property of the Van Nattan-Hansen Scholarship Committee. Please send copies of required information as appropriate. Documents cannot be returned.

Applicants will only be considered if their information is received no later than May 1st. Awards will be made by July 1st. Please mail to:

Ron Pearson, Chair Person
The Van Nattan-Hansen Scholarship Committee
P.O. Box 150743
Lakewood, Colorado 80215-0743

Awards and Judging

Scholarship awards shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, ethnic or national origin, religion, or disabilities. The decision of the Van Nattan-Hansen Scholarship Committee shall be considered final.
 
The Van Nattan Scholarship Committee
  • Chair: Ron Pearson, E-Mail
  • Ivan Geisler
  • Darrell Dodge
  • Tim Pimental
  • Brenda Wray
 
 


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