A Colorado Mountain College Foundation scholarship is now available for Glenwood Springs and Carbondale adults of any age, made possible through donations from Aspen Glen resident Paul Bushong.

The Fast Forward scholarship will provide up to $5,000 a year, with the chance to renew for a second year for a total of $10,000, to regular or non-traditional students focused on career training programs at CMC, according to a press release.

“There are two important requirements. One, they have to be serious about their education. And two, they have to genuinely need the money,” Bushong said in a statement. “We’re trying to find those who’ve slipped through the cracks.”

Since 2014, Bushong has funded the Fast Forward Scholarship through CMC and the Aspen Community Foundation. ACF will still manage scholarships for traditional students attending non-CMC accredited schools to earn certain associate degrees and certificates. Fast Forward has funded 62 scholarships worth more than $300,000 in the past four years.

While Bushong is the main contributor to the scholarships, he is looking for other donors to join him in supporting CMC students who may not qualify for other financial aide.

The extended scholarship will be available for adults seeking those seeking certain work-ready educational certifications and degrees for the first time.

First semester student Sophie Pittenger, who graduated Glenwood Springs High School in 2018, is a recipient of the new scholarship. Having missed the March deadline for most CMC scholarship applications, Pittenger applied for the Fast Forward Scholarship, which has rolling deadlines and awards scholarships before the start of each CMC semester, in August, January and May.

“College is a lot different than high school,” Pittenger said. “I like it more than high school. It’s really nice that I don’t have to worry about trying to figure out finances because that can be overwhelming.”

Pittenger is studying for an associate degree in outdoor education, and hopes to work for Outward Bound, the National Outdoor Leadership School or the Forest Service.

To be eligible, the applicant must reside in the Glenwood Springs/Carbondale area, be seeking a degree for the first time, and demonstrate financial need. The applicant must be enrolled full time in a program of practical skills certification or associate’s degree. A full list of eligible programs is available from Jeanne Golay at the CMC Foundation Jeanne Golay at the CMC Foundation: jgolay@coloradomtn.edu or 970-947-8304.