BVI company distributes $100K in education scholarships to 22 students

A total of 22 students throughout the Virgin Islands have been named as recipients of $100,000 in scholarships through a fund established by the MHV BVI Group, the company announced this week.

The programme honours Judith Vanterpool, wife of company chairman Mark Vanterpool and a co-founder of the group. Judith Vanterpool has dedicated more than 50 years to education in the territory, and both she and Mark hold teaching backgrounds.

Mark Vanterpool made an initial commitment of $50,000 in April. The MHV BVI Group subsequently expanded that pledge to $100,000, enabling the fund to reach a larger pool of applicants. Award letters will be distributed shortly, with payments to scholars spread across the following two years.

In a statement, Judith Vanterpool said the scholarship represents more than financial support. "Beyond the financial impact, we want successful applicants to take this investment as a sign that someone believes strongly in what they can achieve," she said. "We hope to see these scholars return and contribute to building a stronger Virgin Islands."

The company has a two-decade track record of investing in local education. Beyond scholarships, the MHV BVI Group has provided summer work and mentoring to young people in the community.