The Lowell C. and Mary J. Rose scholarship fund awards four-year renewable scholarships to outstanding high school seniors who are planning careers in education. Recipients are identified as part of PDK's prospective educator scholarship program.

Prior to Lowell Rose's retirement, Lowell and Mary Rose were the First Family of Phi Delta Kappa for nearly a quarter-century. Lowell was appointed PDK Executive Secretary in 1971 and retired as Executive Director in 1995. During Lowell's tenure as PDK's executive director, the association grew from 85,000 to 130,000 members, the headquarter's building was enlarged, and PDK's influence in education significantly increased.

The endowed scholarship fund was established in 1995 when Dr. Rose retired from PDK. In addition to the couple's generous gift, contributions from the PDK family at-large — Board of Directors, Foundation Board of Governors, area coordinators, chapters, and staff — more than doubled the fund during the first year. Lowell Rose passed away in December 2007. Mary Rose continues their commitment to future educators with annual gifts to their endowment.