George H. Springer joined the Department of Geology at the University of Dayton in 1946.  He initiated the Geology degree program and graduated his first majors in 1950.  Over 80% of the graduates went on to earn their masters or doctorate degrees.  Dr. Springer dedicated his life to his students, both majors and non-majors.  His standards for both himself and his students were the very highest.

The scholarship was established in 1993 through funds received from alumni to honor Dr. Springer and the Department of Geology.  The scholarship provides financial support to a geology or environmental geology major and the awardee is also recognized with a plaque.  The amount of the scholarship is currently $3000.