Judge Bill Higgins Public Service Scholarship

The best way to teach is by example and Judge Bill Higgins is a great example of how to be a real public servant.  He has dedicated his life to helping others and we are excited to announce this scholarship in his honor.

Bill Higgins is a Nashville native. He practiced law for 13 years before becoming a judge in Nashville, after serving two years in the United States Army Signal Corps, rising to the rank of Captain during his time. He also served for here terms as a Metro Nashville Council member.

His commitment to serving those in need extends beyond his seat in court and inspired his son Jim to work diligently to make sure his client’s constitutional rights and privileges are always protected. He has sat on multiple charitable boards including, the Rochelle Center, Youth Encouragement Services, Richland Village Children’s Home, and St. Luke’s Community Center.

While public service is not always the most popular route for many young professionals, as public servants are tasked with grueling and demanding work, it is one of the most rewarding.

Due to The Higgins Firm’s passion for public service and desire to encourage those considering entering this arena with the inspiration of Judge Bill Higgins behind them, we are honored to present the Judge Bill Higgins Public Service Scholarship. The scholarship will award $500 to the student that best expresses their thoughts on the importance of public servants with insight and creativity.

The Higgins Firm, believes in the importance of public service, having spent years representing those who have been severely harmed or injured. Judge Higgins son, Jim,  is the principal partner for the Serious Injury and Wrongful Death Litigation sections of his firm, and he works tirelessly to fight for the rights of those who have been aggrieved.

Through his work in his firm, Jim has gained an admiration for those who choose public service, particularly their tireless work ethic and passion. His inspiration to serve those who are in need of help comes from the values set forth from his father, Judge Bill Higgins, the senior jurist of the General Sessions Court in Nashville.

Eligibility & Selection Criteria:

• This scholarship is offered to any student currently enrolled in an accredited community college, undergraduate, or graduate program in the United States. This includes incoming first-year college students who are high school graduates or possess a GED.
• The scholarship candidate must possess an interest in public service, as demonstrated by past and present volunteer, professional, and educational experiences.
• All eligible candidates must be in good academic standing, with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or above.

Application Requirements:

• An updated résumé and completed cover sheet.
• Send your volunteer service hours showing that you have volunteered at least five hours at your favorite charitable organization. For every five hours worked, you will qualify for an eligible submission in the scholarship. For example, if you submit 15 hours of volunteer work, you will be assigned three entries for the scholarship. If you do not already have a favorite charity, here some great ones to choose from:
  • Nashville Rescue Mission
  • Habitat for Humanity
  • Room in the Inn
  • Youth Encouragement Services
  • Volunteer Match
• A current unofficial transcript from the applicant’s school (NOTE: First-year college students must submit an unofficial transcript from their most recent school, as well as an unofficial transcript from their current post-secondary institution.)

Application Deadline & Instructions

In order to be eligible, scholarship applicants must submit their FULL application (personal statement, cover sheet, transcript(s), and résumé) by email to [email protected] The official deadline for all application materials is July 21, 2017.

ALL SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION SUBMISSION EMAILS MUST HAVE THE FOLLOWING:

Subject Line: Name of the Applicant — Name of the Scholarship

Attachments: Essay or Proof of Volunteer Hours, Transcript, Cover Sheet and Resume