Applications Open for BBB’s Barbara J. Sinnott Student of Integrity Scholarship

WORCESTER — The Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Central New England announced that applications for the 2026 Barbara J. Sinnott Student of Integrity Scholarship are now open.

This award, funded by the BBB of Central New England’s Consumer Education Foundation, will grant five deserving high school seniors a $1,000 scholarship to support their college or university education.

Named in honor of Sinnott, a former president and CEO of BBB of Central New England, this scholarship recognizes students who embody the values of honesty, leadership, and ethical decision making. Sinnott, a trailblazer in consumer education and marketplace trust, dedicated more than 15 years of service to the BBB before retiring in 2003, leaving behind a lasting impact on the business and consumer landscape.

The Barbara J. Sinnott Student of Integrity Scholarship seeks to support students who exemplify strong moral character and demonstrate a commitment to their communities. Applicants will be evaluated based on an essay discussing integrity, the importance of ethical decision making, and how they inspire others to do the right thing. Additionally, students must provide a recent transcript and a letter of recommendation as part of the application process.

Open to high school seniors across the 225 communities in Central and Western Mass. and Northeastern Connecticut that are served by the BBB of Central New England, this annual scholarship continues to highlight and celebrate outstanding young leaders.

“Barbara Sinnott was a steadfast advocate for — and physical embodiment of — the Better Business Bureau’s core values of trust, integrity, and ethics,” said Lisa Swanson, CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Central New England. “This annual scholarship is a small way in which we can ensure her impact and legacy live on, inspiring the next generation of ethical leaders and celebrating their commitment to integrity.”

Educators, guidance counselors, and community leaders are encouraged to share this opportunity with eligible students. Applications opened on March 1 and must be submitted by April 30. Entries will be reviewed by a panel of impartial judges, and selected recipients will be announced on or around May 17.

Click here for more information about the Barbara J. Sinnott Student of Integrity Scholarship and to apply.