The Tin Whistles Scholarship Foundation
Dedicated to providing college scholarships to high-achieving students from Moore County high schools
Our History
Pinehurst was developed as an over-wintering resort for visitors from the north. Over the years friendships were formed through golf and socializing and the Tin Whistles Golf Society was born. As the founding members became residents, as opposed to visitors, the group decided they wished to give something back to the community they enjoyed so much and this led to the formation of The Whistles Education and Research Foundation (TWERF) in 1978, the title being changed later to Tin Whistles Scholarship Foundation (TWSF).
The founders, led by A. Parker Hall & Vice Admiral William E. Gentner, decided that funding scholarships for Moore County high school students was a suitable contribution, and two – four-year scholarships were awarded in 1979. From its humble beginnings, the program has grown to fund six four-year scholarships and three nursing scholarships annually. Over the past 40 years, Tin Whistles members have donated over $2 million in scholarships to 174 students (as of 2025). Recognized by The Pilot as the “Gold Standard” for scholarships in the county, the TWSF continues to make a lasting impact.
The Tin Whistles Scholarship Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization sponsored by The Tin Whistles, Inc., and operated exclusively for charitable purposes. The foundation’s Board comprises 12 trustees and three ex officio members, all of whom are Tin Whistles members.
Our Mission
The purpose of The Tin Whistles Scholarship Foundation (TWSF) shall be to award college scholarships to high-achieving graduating seniors of Moore County, North Carolina high schools and to raise proceeds sufficient to fund those scholarships.
Scholarship recipients demonstrate exceptional academic performance, leadership skills, community service, and financial need.
The Tin Whistles Scholarship Foundation: FAQ’s
Who is Eligible for a Scholarship?
High School Seniors (Class of 2027) who attend Moore County, North Carolina high schools are eligible to receive a scholarship.
What Scholarships are provided?
A four-year, $6500/yr scholarship to an accredited College or University is provided to six graduating seniors.
A two-year, $3500/yr scholarship to Sandhills Community College is provided to three Nursing students
When are applications due?
Applications are due on February 28. 2027.
What is the process once all the applications are received?
1. An 8-person Tin Whistle Scholarship Foundation Selection Committee reviews and scores each application.
2. 15 applicants for the 4-year scholarship are notified that they have proceeded to the next phase of the process.
3. 5 applicants for the 2-year Nursing scholarships are notified that they have proceeded to the next phase of the process
4. The Selection Committee interviews all 20 applicants
5. The 6 successful applicants for the 4-year scholarships are notified
6. The 3 successful applicants for the 2-year Nursing scholarships are notified
7. The successful applicants are invited to attend The Tin Whistle Scholarship Foundation Scholars Luncheon at the Pinehurst Country Club
Who can contribute to The Tin Whistles Scholarship Foundation?
The Tin Whistles Scholarship Foundation is funded solely through annual contributions from its current and former members, or their surviving family members. Members who so desire, can establish an endowment to be provided to The Tin Whistles Scholarship Foundation in perpetuity.
The Tin Whistles Scholarship Foundation
We Make a Difference
Dedicated to providing college scholarships to high-achieving students from Moore County high schools