This scholarship is now CLOSED. Thank you to all who applied.
Please check our blog and Facebook page for announcements.
For inspiration, have a look at our previous winners.

Reach the Summit Scholarship

Attorneys Doug Black and Renée J. Nordstrand-Black

Almost 20% of children in Santa Barbara County live in poverty. As part of our ongoing commitment to the community, NordstrandBlack PC wants to do our part to help alleviate this situation.

We believe the most effective anti-poverty program is a good education. A number of studies actually confirm that, on average, today’s college graduates will earn over a million dollars more during the course of their lifetime than their peers who only have a high school diploma. Additional statistics show that college graduates are half as likely to be unemployed, and 87% of people holding a bachelor’s degree achieve financial well-being .

We live in a constantly evolving society, and it is impossible to predict what changes the future will hold. A college education provides students with the needed skills to adapt and prosper in today’s fast-paced and competitive society.


About Us

At NordstrandBlack PC, we believe in protecting the rights of those injured throughout Santa Barbara, the surrounding communities and throughout California. Led by attorneys Renée Nordstrand-Black and Doug Black, our firm is committed to providing skilled legal representation with honesty, compassion, and a strong sense of public responsibility.

Renée Nordstrand-Black is a highly regarded Santa Barbara personal injury attorney who has been securing justice for local clients for more than 35 years. She has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Deborah Talmage Attorney of the Year Award and an Avvo 10.0 “Superb” rating.

Doug Black brings decades of construction experience paired with strong legal acumen in handling complex litigation. He is recognized for his rigorous preparation and ethical advocacy in Santa Barbara car accident cases. Together, he and Renée form a dynamic team that genuinely cares about their clients and remains deeply invested in the Santa Barbara community.

Whether working pro bono with local organizations or volunteering with causes they believe in, Renée and Doug extend their commitment to justice beyond the courtroom. At NordstrandBlack PC, we are proud of the trust our clients place in us—and we work tirelessly to earn it every day.

Scholarship Details

NordstrandBlack PC is offering three $750.00 scholarships to help support the next generation of American leaders. This annual award is open to students across the United States who are looking to enhance their future by earning a four-year college degree.

High school seniors and current college students are welcome to apply, including community college students who plan on transferring to a four-year institution. You can find the scholarship submission guidelines here.

Award Amount
$750 for 3 winners
Deadline
June 10, 2025
Winner Announced
July 31, 2025

Concise Submission: 500-1,000 Words

Devise a plan of action and create a proposal to reduce child poverty in Santa Barbara County. The plan/proposal should be targeted at and addressed to an existing government or private entity. It should explain your idea and include a donation request or some other form of support to mitigate child poverty.

Good Luck to Everyone Who Enters!

Follow our blog and Facebook page for contest details.
We can’t wait to read your essays!

See Requirements

Questions?