Thoroughbred Scholars Program enters fifth year of impact

Over 100 children of employees to earn scholarships

Applications are now open for the 2026 Norfolk Southern Thoroughbred Scholars program, which awards scholarships to children of NS employees. Since launching in 2022, the Thoroughbred Scholars program has awarded nearly $4.5 million in scholarships across its 22-state network.

Why it matters: Norfolk Southern is investing in the next generation by expanding access to higher education — supporting academic achievement, workforce development, and community leadership.

Zooming in: 100 students pursuing an undergraduate degree at an accredited two- or four-year institution, including vocational-technical programs that are at least one semester in length, will receive a $2,500-per-year scholarship, renewable for up to four years.

Three students will receive special scholarships of $10,000 per year for up to four years. These special awards support NS’ strategic priorities of technology, leadership development, and inclusion. They are designed for students who have distinguished themselves in the following ways:

• NS HBCU Scholar: For a student planning to attend a Historically Black College or University.
• NS STEM Scholar: For a student pursuing a degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
• NS Community Scholar: For a student with a strong record of community leadership and volunteer service.

What’s next: Applications close April 20. Learn more and apply here. All existing and newly awarded scholarships will be fully honored and not affected by Norfolk Southern’s proposed merger with Union Pacific.

Chad Previch leads external communications for Norfolk Southern in the areas of Sustainability, Community Impact, and Technology. He also manages messaging related to the company’s Government Relations and Investor Relations priorities. He joined NS in 2025, bringing nearly 20 years of PR and corporate communications experience.