RASF was established in 1990 by an individual who realized the need to help people in rural areas achieve their dreams of a higher education. The first year, two awards were given to nontraditional students who attended EWU. In the 2003-2004 academic year, 84 of 150 applicants awards were made.

RASF is staffed entirely by volunteers. More and more former recipients are becoming involved with RASF. They, better than the board of directors, understand individuals who are motivated to improve their lives, and the lives of their families.

We ask that applicants include a photograph of themselves with their applications. Sometimes it is more convenient to conduct the scholarship interview in an off-campus place like a restaurant. A picture helps us recognize the applicant. Also, the benefactor remains anonymous, but likes to be able to put a face with a name when discussing students.

RASF is a different scholarship; we do not just give you assistance financially, we try to assist you in other ways: Mentoring, finding answers to problems you many be experiencing. In other words, we are very much rural, very personal.