Educational attainment is one of Blandin Foundation’s six strategic focus areas. When he established the Foundation, Charles K. Blandin — who himself did not earn a college degree — placed high value on putting educational opportunities within reach for students who had the determination, but not the means, to accomplish that goal. In 1956, the Foundation awarded its first scholarships, to two area students.

Today, Blandin Foundation continues that legacy through its Education Award Program. Each year, hundreds of students from Itasca County area schools are awarded scholarships to continue their education at community college, college or university, trade schools and certificate programs throughout the United States. More than 17,000 area youth have received Education Awards totaling more than $15 million since 1956.