ATU INTERNATIONAL SCHOLARSHIP

ATU Scholarship Competition for the 2025-2026 Academic Year in Memory of Thomas Dunn, Local 1593-Tampa, FL

This year’s scholarships are in remembrance of our hero, Local 1593-Tampa, FL, Brother Thomas Dunn, who was tragically stabbed to death on the job in 2019 when an angry passenger slit his throat. As an Air Force Veteran, Dunn’s instinct to protect and serve was ingrained in him. In his final moments, he demonstrated extraordinary courage and selflessness by pulling his bus to safety, saving lives.

“Thomas dedicated himself to the safety and well-being of countless individuals, ensuring their journeys were secure and smooth. He embodied the essence of public service. Every day, he approached his work with unyielding commitment and professionalism,” said International President John Costa. “Months before his death, Thomas had testified before the HART Board about his concerns for the safety of his fellow bus drivers. Thomas Dunn epitomized heroism in its truest form. We honor his legacy of bravery and kindness with our scholarship.”

We hope the recipients of this year’s scholarships, named in his honor, will use them in part to study union and community organizing and grow to fight injustices everywhere.

This year, the program will consist of five scholarships each in the amount of $8,000.00. In addition, a $2,000.00, scholarship may be awarded to a technical or vocational school applicant.

The application will be online starting December 15, 2024 at atu.communityforce.com.

Questions about the application process please contact Kayla Warner, Executive Assistant to the International Secretary-Treasurer at kwarner@atu.org or 301-431-7100 ext. 232.