Each student, representing 26 schools around the country, was nominated by educators based on demonstrated academic achievements and their strong passion for retail.

As part of the application process, each recipient submitted essays on their career aspirations, how they would impact their community as a retailer, and the most inspiring retail innovation they have experienced as shoppers.

In addition to the $5,000 scholarship, recipients will also receive a travel grant to attend the Shop.org Annual Summit in September. During the 2012-2013 school year, the NRF Foundation distributed nearly $375,000 in scholarships to college students.

“We are so excited to recognize our newest Ray Greenly scholarship recipients, who are true representatives of the future of our industry,” said Ellen Davis, executive director of the NRF Foundation and senior vice president of the National Retail Federation.

“The NRF Foundation is thrilled to be able to provide these deserving students with financial support and experiences as they pursue their passion for retail.”

“Retail requires constant change to keep up with consumers, is incredibly innovative, and consistently rewards bold decision makers,” Mindy Grossman, CEO of HSNi, and chair of the NRF Foundation Board of Directors, wrote in a letter to the scholarship recipients.

“Our industry has the best jobs in America, and I was thrilled to read through all of the nominees’ personal essays to understand how our industry’s future leaders view careers, community and innovation.”

Scholarship recipients, each of whom is a member of the NRF Student Association, will travel to Chicago for the Shop.org 2013 Annual Summit, where Mindy Grossman, CEO of HSNi will host a special dinner for scholarship recipients the night before the NRF Foundation’s student program.

National Retail Federation