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Simply Slavic opens applications for YSU scholarship program

By Staff Report
Simply Slavic is accepting 2026 scholarship applications for YSU students with Slavic heritage interest. Apply by July 15, 2026; essays, GPA, and involvement considered.
Simply Slavic is accepting 2026 scholarship applications for YSU students with Slavic heritage interest. Apply by July 15, 2026; essays, GPA, and involvement considered. Simply Slavic

Simply Slavic is now accepting applications for its 2026 scholarship program, which supports Youngstown State University students who demonstrate an interest in Slavic heritage, culture, and traditions.

Undergraduate and graduate students who have completed at least their freshman year at YSU are encouraged to apply. Applicants must submit a 500-word essay describing how Slavic culture or heritage has influenced their lives. Scholarship funds may be used for tuition, books, lodging, study abroad opportunities, and other educational expenses.

Recipients will be selected by the Simply Slavic Scholarship Committee based on essay submissions, academic achievement, and community involvement.

Applications are due by Friday, July 15, 2026, with scholarship recipients to be announced in mid-August. Applications and additional information are available at SimplySlavic.org under the ABOUT tab. Questions may be directed to info@simplyslavic.org or by calling (330) 333-1441.

Recipients will be selected by the Simply Slavic Scholarship Committee based on essay submissions, academic achievement, and community involvement.
Recipients will be selected by the Simply Slavic Scholarship Committee based on essay submissions, academic achievement, and community involvement. Simply Slavic

“We’re thrilled to contribute to the scholarship program and be part of the festival,” said Adam Keck, Founder and Brewer at Modern Methods Brewing Co. “We get to brew a traditional Czech lager while supporting a meaningful community cause with our friends at Simply Slavic. It’s incredible to see how much people now look forward to Rodina each year.”

The scholarship program is supported through a partnership with Modern Methods Brewing Co. of Warren, Ohio. In 2018, Simply Slavic and Modern Methods collaborated to create Rodina, a traditional Czech Amber Lager (polotmavé pivo) brewed with Czech Saaz noble hops, lager yeast, and caramel Bohemian malt. The beer was named after the word meaning “family” in many Slavic languages.

As Simply Slavic’s official beer, Rodina Lager will once again be available following the ceremonial keg tapping during opening night of the three-day Simply Slavic Festival at the Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre June 26–28. The beer will also be available at the Modern Methods Taproom in Warren and at select locations throughout the Mahoning Valley.

Rodina sales have raised thousands of dollars in recent years, providing ongoing support for the scholarship program.

“We feel our scholarship program is one way to give back and support Youngstown State University and the amazing students attending this local institution,” said Simply Slavic Board President John Slanina. “We want to help advance the next generation of leaders who value cultural heritage, local history, and community engagement.”

Representatives said the scholarship program reflects Simply Slavic’s ongoing mission to preserve Slavic heritage while investing in future generations throughout the Mahoning Valley.