The Vicki Soto Memorial Scholarship, based in Stratford, provides a prestigious four-year renewable award totaling $12,000 to students pursuing a career in education. Each year, the scholarship committee selects four outstanding recipients who exemplify academic excellence, leadership, and a deep passion for education.

Two of the annual awards are designated for students from local high schools in Stratford, ensuring that Vicki Soto’s legacy continues to impact her hometown community. Recognizing the importance of fostering future educators beyond Stratford, the scholarship program has expanded to include candidates from across Connecticut and the United States. Each year, one student from Connecticut and one from outside the state are selected to receive a renewable scholarship of up to $12,000.

Since its establishment, the Vicki Soto Memorial Scholarship has supported 40 exceptional students, helping them achieve their dreams of becoming educators. These recipients have gone on to attend a wide range of accredited institutions, where they have continued to demonstrate the qualities that define this scholarship—academic dedication, leadership, and a commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. Many past recipients have already entered the education field, carrying forward Vicki Soto’s inspiring legacy of passion, perseverance, and love for learning.

To be considered for this scholarship, applicants must be pursuing a degree in education at an accredited institution and exhibit outstanding performance in academics, extracurricular activities, and leadership. Beyond their achievements, recipients are expected to embody the values of living life to the fullest, laughter, and a genuine love for education—principles that Vicki Soto embraced and that continue to inspire future generations of educators.