The NCAA Basketball Tournament has led to countless contests over the years, but never one like #TheVanna. 

Each March, a large number of entrants seek to win what is one of the more difficultly designed pools while simultaneously striving to avoid last place and what we kindly refer to as The Framed Dame of Shame. What's that, you ask? 

Oh, it's just a personally autographed and inscribed photo of North Myrtle Beach native Vanna White that is given to the last-place finisher each year as a reminder of his/her failures. The trophy has spent time in various parts of South Carolina and Texas and currently rests in New Orleans Louisiana.

But that's not all. 

In short, our event grew out of a love for March Madness. It also spawned a scholarship fund aimed at helping current South Carolina undergraduate students cross the finish line.

This July, #TheVanna scholarship committee will award either one or two scholarships, each at a minimum of $500 (or a litlte over $1,100 if their is one winner). 

Here's the skinny:

Students must currently be enrolled at a South Carolina university and registered or pre-registered for the Fall 2024 semester, as this is where those funds will be dedicated. The money may be used for books, tuition or housing. Transer of funds will depend on the school(s) of the winning recipients.

HOW TO APPLY

To be considered for the 2024 awards, please send the following to ian@ianguerin.com in a singular emailed packet:

*Copy of current college transcript

*Proof of continued enrollment in Fall of 2024 or intent to register

*400-500 word essay on your favorite memory of March Madness and what it means to you; 500 words isn't a lot, but we want concise, clear writing.

*One paragraph statement describing what the money could help with during your continued educational program of study.

*Current intentions of post-graduation plans (yes, we know they change frequently, but we're curious).

*Application Deadline: Monday, June 17, 2024

Scholarship winners will be notified by email/phone, and funds will be distributed on or around July 1, 2024.