Dr. William S. Boyd Scholarship

Scholarship Sponsored by Chiropractic Association of Louisiana

Description
**Purpose and audience**
The William S. Boyd Scholarship is a need- and merit-oriented fund that provides financial assistance to students enrolled in chiropractic college who plan to practice in Louisiana. The scholarship supports the advancement of the profession by reducing financial barriers for qualified candidates pursuing a chiropractic degree. It is intended for students who are progressing through an accredited chiropractic curriculum and who demonstrate a commitment to practicing within the state.

Key takeaways:
- Financial assistance for chiropractic students intending to practice in Louisiana.
- Supports students enrolled in CCE-accredited chiropractic programs.
- Focuses on candidates who are advancing in their chiropractic education.

History of the Award
**Founding and namesake**
The Chiropractic Association of Louisiana (CAL) established the William S. Boyd Scholarship fund in 1995 to honor Dr. William S. Boyd (1916–1996). Dr. Boyd was a pioneering Louisiana chiropractor who held the state’s first chiropractic license, served in CAL leadership (vice-president in 1953; president 1955–1960), championed licensure efforts through the 1950s–1970s, and was the first chiropractor elected to the Louisiana Legislature in 1960. He later served as legislative chairman for CAL, was named Honorary Chairman of the Board in 1988, and remained active with the association until his death.

Key takeaways:
- Scholarship established in 1995 by the Chiropractic Association of Louisiana.
- Named for Dr. William S. Boyd, a key leader and licensure advocate.
- Boyd served in CAL leadership and was the first chiropractor elected to the state legislature.

Eligibility
**Who qualifies**
Eligibility centers on residency, enrollment status, academic progress, and commitment to practice in Louisiana. Applicants must be Louisiana residents who intend to practice in the state after graduation and must have completed a defined portion of their chiropractic curriculum. Academic standing is required to meet a minimum GPA threshold.

Key takeaways:
- Must be a Louisiana resident with intent to practice in Louisiana.
- Must be currently enrolled and have completed at least 3 trimesters or 4 quarters.
- Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 required (official transcripts required).

Application Requirements
**Required materials**
Applicants must submit documentation and references that demonstrate academic standing, professional support, and personal qualifications. Required items include official transcripts, a completed scholarship application form, a recommendation from an active, dues‑paying CAL member, and three letters of recommendation (family members excluded), one of which must come from a faculty member at the chiropractic college.

Key takeaways:
- Submit completed scholarship application and official transcripts.
- Provide three letters of recommendation (family excluded); one must be from faculty.
- Include a recommendation from an active, dues-paying member of CAL.

Award Value
**Amount and variability**
The specific award amount and number of scholarships distributed are not specified in the source material. Scholarship value may vary by year based on available funds, donations, and the association’s selection decisions. Applicants should consult the Chiropractic Association of Louisiana for current award amounts and any additional financial details.

Key takeaways:
- Exact award amount is not specified in the provided source.
- Award size and frequency may vary annually.
- Contact CAL for the current scholarship value and distribution details.

Application Timeline
**Deadlines and schedule**
No explicit application deadlines or annual schedule were provided in the source text. Scholarships of this type are commonly awarded on an annual cycle with deadlines tied to academic terms; therefore, prospective applicants should verify the current timeline. Plan to gather transcripts and recommendation letters well in advance to meet typical submission windows.

Key takeaways:
- The source does not specify deadlines or award cycle.
- Expect an annual schedule; confirm dates with CAL.
- Begin collecting transcripts and recommendation letters early.

Administration and Contact
**Managing organization**
The William S. Boyd Scholarship is administered by the Chiropractic Association of Louisiana (CAL). For application forms, deadlines, award amounts, and submission instructions, contact CAL directly or visit the association’s official website. CAL can also clarify any eligibility questions and provide guidance on completing the application packet.

Key takeaways:
- The scholarship is administered by the Chiropractic Association of Louisiana.
- Contact CAL for applications, deadlines, and award details.
- CAL provides guidance on eligibility and application procedures.