In 2005, Manitou Springs Real Estate began sponsoring The Different Drummer Scholarship in appreciation of Mr. Thoreau’s thought: 

If a man does not keep pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured or far away. 

– Henry David Thoreau, From “Walden.” 

The idea of the scholarship is born out of one of our agents’ experience in an education system that overlooked those with talent in non-traditional, non-academic ways. 

The Different Drummer Scholarship is a one-time $1000 gift intended for two graduating Manitou Springs resident seniors (attending Manitou Springs High School, or a Manitou Springs resident attending another school or homeschooled). We award the scholarship each year to someone with a particular passion not fitting the “typical” scholarship profile. It is awarded to a student with a unique dream, goal, or passion. The student should exhibit focus and ambition toward meeting that goal or fulfilling that dream or passion.

The scholarship is for anything that helps the student accomplish this goal, dream, or passion. College or trade school expenses, private tutoring, special lessons, books, supplies, equipment, tools, or anything else that legitimately helps reach the goal. Each scholarship is customized to the recipient. No preference is given based upon gender, gender identity, religion, race, handicap, family status, sexual orientation, or ethnicity. Preference is given to applicants with less financial resources at their disposal who might not otherwise receive a scholarship. 

Are you a student with a unique dream, goal, or passion who doesn’t necessarily fit into the “typical” scholarship profile? Who dances to a different drummer? Perhaps you know a Manitou Springs high school senior who fits that description? If so, please check out About Us – The Different Drummer Scholarship page for more information and to obtain the application. You can also give us a call at 719-685-0220 or email us at info@ManitouSprings.com.