Scholarships for Women

A millennium ago, women didn’t really go to college. If they were going to be working women, they went to Business College. Today, everything is different! Women are in the workplace, and as such, have recognized the need for a degree to get ahead. The glass ceiling is not as solid, but the solvent that can make it disappear is your degree from an institution of higher learning. If you are one who is just out of high school and setting off for college for the first time, or if you have been out of school for awhile, already have a family and considering going back to school – don’t hesitate. There are scholarships for women available in every category and in every field. You just have to look for them! Below we have listed general scholarships for women, scholarships for moms and single moms, and scholarships for women who have delayed their education for a number of years or who are in search of a second career. We’ve also included some information about grants and financial aid to help you along the way. Hopefully, you will find at least one opportunity to inspire you. If not, go to the library and look up some more. There are numerous resource books just waiting for you to dip into. Best of luck in your search, and all of the best in your future!

General Scholarships for Women

American History Scholarship for Women

This scholarship for women is given each year to encourage outstanding female freshmen to take an active interest in history and government. It is administered by the Daughters of the American Revolution, and is in the amount of $2,000. Two are given each year. Deadline for application is February 15. For application details go to http://www.dar.org.

American Association of University Women (AAUW) – Selected Professional Fellowships

These awards are directed toward full-time, female students, who are pursuing degrees in fields where women are under-represented. Examples of such fields would include engineering, math, some areas of computer science, and many areas of scientific study. You can find more information at www.aauw.org/learn/fellows_directory. Do not delay if you plan to apply for 2012 awards – deadline is January 15th.

American Society of Women Accountants (ASWA) Scholarships – Undergraduate & Master’s

The ASWA will award the following scholarships in May 2012:

• To qualify for the Undergraduate Scholarships for women, you must be a female majoring in accounting or finance, be currently enrolled in an accredited program in or 3rd, 4th, or 5th year of study to be eligible.
• To qualify for the Master’s Scholarships you must be a female attending an accredited College or University enrolled in a master's program in accounting or finance.

You are not required to be a member of ASWA. Applications are to be made through your local chapter of ASWA. To find out more information and to apply, please visit http://www.aswa.org/pagedisplay.asp?p1=4481 for our Chapter Directory for the appropriate chapter contact information. If there is not a chapter in your immediate area, please contact the chapter that is closest to you. For additional information about the American Society of Women Accountants you can look up ASWA on line at http://www.aswa.org/PageDisplay.asp?p1=1386.

Society of Women Engineers including the Brill Family Scholarship

The SWE Society Scholarship Program offers multiple scholarship opportunities each year to women admitted to baccalaureate or graduate programs, to prepare them for careers in aeronautical engineering, biomedical engineering, engineering technology or computer science. This past year, SWE awarded 188 new and renewed scholarships for women totaling $540,000. The Brill Family Scholarship is just one example of the awards available and it is given each year in the amount of $1,000. A minimum GPA of 3.0 in a 4.0 system is required. To find complete information regarding awards go to http://societyofwomenengineers.swe.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=222&Itemid=229 and click on your class status for individual scholarships and their requirements.

Blanche E. Colman Foundation

Female art students in the New England states may apply for the Blanch E. Colman Trust Scholarship. In addition, the Blanche E. Colman Foundation offers annual grants to New England Artist Women who have completed their formal education and have exhibited considerable talent in the area of painting, sculpture, drawing, printmaking, mixed media and photography. Students are not eligible to apply. Artists in film, performance art, video and crafts are not eligible to apply. Application Deadline is March 1. For more information regarding these scholarships for women write:
The Blanche E. Colman Awards
The Blanche E Colman Foundation
Boston Safe Deposit and Trust Company
One Boston Place
Boston, MA 02108

CIA Scholarships and Financial Aid

Even if you have always been an outstanding student, you may have never thought about a merit-based scholarship for a culinary school. Well, the CIA is looking for students who have a track record of high academic achievement, as well as proven leadership abilities. Grade point requirement is a minimum of 3.2. ACT and SAT scores are also considered, requiring at least a Math score of 550 or better, and the same in Reading. If applicable, ACT score must be a 20 or better. There are several additional categories of scholarships for women available under this heading including one for culinary writing. For complete information, go the http://www.ciachef.edu/admissions/finaid/merit.asp.

Culinary Scholarships, Other

If you have always been a stellar cook, and have decided to take it to the next level and become a professional, there is money out there to help you. Click on this link – http://www.acfchefs.org/am/template.cfm?section=home6 -- to find all the information about the American Academy of Chefs annual Scholarship Program. These scholarships may be applied for by high school students, college students, and professional chefs who require more training.

Delta Gamma Foundation Scholarship

If you are an initiated member of Delta Gamma with a GPA of 3.0 accumulated over at least three semesters or four quarters, you may be eligible to take advantage of this opportunity. Need for financial aid must be substantiated to qualify. There should also be a record of previous community service. The specified field of study is science. This award may be used for undergraduate or post-graduate study. Don’t delay if you would like to apply for 2012; deadline is January 15th. Full details can be found at the website: http://www.deltagamma.org/content.aspx?audience=foundation&item=Foundation/3Helping%20Members/scholarships.xml.

Dr. Nancy Foster Scholarship Program

This graduate school scholarship is presented to a student – preferably female – who has demonstrated outstanding scholarship and graduate level research in the fields of marine biology, oceanography, or maritime archaeology. Minimum GPA to be considered for this award is 3.0. It is a renewable award of up to $20,000. Application deadline is February 10, 2012. The application package and instructions can be found on http://grants.gov. Applications must be received through http://grants.gov. Further information about the scholarship and NOAA's Office of National Marine Sanctuaries research priorities can be found at the web sites: http://sanctuaries.noaa.gov/science/assessment, http://fosterscholars.noaa.gov, respectively. Information in hard copy may be requested from:
Office of National Marine Sanctuaries
Attention: Seaberry Nachbar
299 Foam Street
Monterey, CA 93940.
Information contact(s): Send requests for information to the Office of National Marine Sanctuaries at the address shown above, by telephone (831) 647- 4204, or via e-mail to fosterscholars@noaa.gov.

Girl Scouts of America Scholarships

If you have ever been a girl scout, and no matter what state you reside in, you may be eligible for one of the many, many scholarships offered by the Girl Scouts of America. Some require reaching a certain level within scouting. Some are school or state specific. If you think you fit into this category, simply go to the website http://www.girlscouts.org/program/highest_awards/gold_award.asp for an example of what they have to offer, or Google Scholarships, Girl Scouts of America for the many opportunities they offer.

Glamour’s Top 10 College Women Competition

Each year this prestigious magazine awards $3,000 each to 10 junior college women who have proven themselves both academically and in leadership roles. Along with the award each recipient is recognized in the magazine, is given an expense-paid trip to New York City where the awards are presented and the opportunity to network with professional women currently working at the publication. Although the deadline is long gone for the 2011-2012 year, the new contest for 2012-2013 will be announced in the first quarter of 2012 on the Glamour website at http://www.glamour.com/about/top-10-college-women. Based on recent years, the earliest entry date will be in April and final entry deadline will be sometime in July so watch that website!

Google Anita Borg Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was created to encourage excellence in female university seniors and graduate students majoring in computer science, computer engineering, or a closely related area of study in a technical field. Each scholarship is in the amount of $10,000, but all finalists receive an award of $1,000. In addition, all scholarship recipients and finalists are invited to attend a 3-day retreat at Google featuring social events, networking, workshops, and breakout sessions. Selection of recipients is based on academic achievement and the student’s individual leadership qualities. For more information, go to: http://www.google.com/anitaborg/. Deadline is February 6.

Handweavers Guild of America, Inc.

Over $4,000 in scholarship funds as well as multiple grants are awarded each year to guild members to study textile arts in both academic and non-accredited programs. Application deadline for these awards is March 15, 2012. Full details are available at the HGA website http://www.weavespindye.org.

Traffic Clubs International Scholarships

The Fred Hoper Memorial Scholarship, awarded by Traffic Clubs International, in Fox Island, WA, is one of many such scholarships given by local chapters of this organization dedicated to promoting a better understanding of the problems facing society today in the transportation industry, as customers and consumers. This scholarship will be awarded to an undergraduate woman majoring in economics, marketing, retail, traffic or transportation who desires a career in transportation. They must have a 3.0 GPA, a history of high academic achievement, and good character. The amount of the award varies annually. For details call 206-549-2251, or write Scholarship Committee, Traffic Clubs International, 1275 Kamus Avenue, Fox Island, WA 98333. You can also find information about other scholarships offered by this organization; just Google Scholarships, Traffic Clubs of America.

Baker Hughes Scholarship

Eligibility for this scholarship is open to female students in their sophomore, junior, or senior years, or in graduate school, who are majoring in the engineering sciences. Underrepresented groups are preferred. This fund is overseen by the Society of Women Engineers and membership in that organization is required. Three awards are given of $5,000 each. Deadline is February 15. For more information, go to their website at http://societyofwomenengineers.swe.org, click on scholarships and select the undergraduate category.

Jewish Foundation -- Education of Women

Each year this organization awards scholarships to Jewish women of any age, and enrolled in any year in college, living in New York City. There is no minimum GPA specified, and no major field of study is preferred. You may get more information by writing to: Jewish Foundation for Education of Women, 330 West 58th Street, New York, NY 10019, or going to their website at http://www.jfew.org/?page=resources.

Jane M. Klausman Women in Business

If you are majoring in business and have shown an outstanding talent for the field, you’re what Zonta International is seeking in a scholarship recipient. They award over $5,000 each year to undergraduate women just like you. You can find more information about this award at: http://www.zonta.org/WhatWeDo/InternationalPrograms/JaneMKlausmanWomenInBusinessScholarship.aspx.

National Physical Science Consortium (Graduate Fellowships for Minorities and Women in the Physical Sciences)

Plan ahead for graduate school and start working on your applications now. As a female graduate student you are a member of a minority, and as such may qualify for one of these fellowships. Major fields of study include astronomy, chemistry, computer science, geology, material science, mathematics, or physics. You must have at least a 3.0 GPA and be planning your graduate studies at New Mexico State University, Las Cruces. Awards range from $10,000 to $15,000 per year, and the fellowship is renewable for up to six years. Deadline is November 15th, but call 1-800-952-4118 for complete details and to find out when applications will become available.

National Society of Black Engineers

This association, established in 1975, is dedicated to educating black women specifically in the field of engineering and science. They provide numerous scholarships each year to qualified students majoring in these areas. For a complete list of the scholarships they sponsor along with application and deadline information, visit their Scholarship Vault at http://www.nsbe.org/Programs/Scholarships/Scholarship-Vault.aspx.

NAWIC Founders' Scholarship Foundation

The NAWIC Founders' Scholarship Foundation (NFSF) is a self-supporting scholarship program. It was established to assist in providing the construction industry with trained employees through higher education. The Foundation is supported and maintained through income from investments of a trust fund. Income is also obtained through voluntary contributions. Candidates must apply directly to the NAWIC Founders' Scholarship Foundation. Candidates are considered based on their interest in construction, grades, extracurricular activities, employment experience and financial need. Scholarships application deadline is March 15. For detailed information visit our website at http://www.nawic.org/nawic/NFSF.asp?SnID=953099056.

Alice T. Schafer Mathematics Prize -- Association for Women in Mathematics

This scholarship will be awarded to an undergraduate woman who has consistently demonstrated excellence in mathematics. Application is by nomination and all members of the mathematics community are encouraged to submit nominations for this prestigious award. Nomination deadline is October 15. To qualify the nominee must be a U.S. citizen or attend school in the U.S. To find out more about this prize and the nomination process: http://sites.google.com/site/awmmath/programs/schafer-prize.

Karla Scherer Foundation Scholarships

You may qualify for this award if you would like a career in the private manufacturing-based sector, and are either an undergraduate or graduate female student at any accredited university or college majoring in finance/economics. The amount of this scholarship varies each year. For more information, write the Karla Scherer Foundation, 737 N. Michigan Avenue – suite 233, Chicago, IL 60611. Include in your letter what school you will attend, courses you will take, and how this education will further your chosen career. Be sure to enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope. If you would like more details prior to writing, call 312-943-9191.

Society of Women Engineers Scholarships

If you are interested in the field of engineering, this is an excellent opportunity. Each year this society awards multiple awards, from entry level to graduate school, in amounts ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. The deadlines have passed for 2011-12 year; however, the new dates for 2012-13 will be posted soon. Qualifications for each scholarship vary, so be sure to get on line for details at: http://societyofwomenengineers.swe.org/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=222&Itemid=229, and select Undergraduate.

State Nursing Association Scholarships

Every state has a nursing association, and all of them offer scholarships. To find yours, get on line and Google your state’s organization. In addition to scholarship and grant information, they will have lots of other useful information to guide you in your search.

State Teachers’ Associations

There are both national and state associations for teachers that offer scholarships. Go to your state’s site and see what they have to offer.

Velma E. Stuit Scholarships for Women

If you are a female attending the University of Iowa majoring in mathematics, statistics, chemistry, or another science, this scholarship is for you. It is touted as one of the easiest scholarships for women to attain as long as you meet the requirements and complete the application exactly as directed within the time frame outlined. You must have a history of high academic achievement, and also must have a record of community service. To find out more, go to http://www.clas.uiowa.edu/apps/scholarships/stuit/.

Union League Civic & Arts Foundation

If you are a woman in pursuit of a visual arts degree program in the Chicago area, you may be eligible for one of these awards. There are also competitions and awards for creative writing, jazz composition, jazz improvisation, and classical composing. Check out http://www.civicandarts.org for details.

The Women at Microsoft (WAM) Scholarship

To be eligible you must be a full-time female student currently enrolled at an accredited university or college in the state of Washington, majoring in computer science. You must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 to apply. Award is in the amount of $2,500. For more information, go to the website: http://www.microsoft.com, and search Scholarships. This is only one of many opportunities listed on this site.

Women in Aviation International

If you’ve dreamt of ‘flying off into the wild blue yonder’ as your chosen career path, you may find financial support from Women in Aviation, International. This organization is full of dreamers, just like you, and over the last twenty years they have awarded millions of dollars and helped students attain their aviation or aerospace career goals. You must be a licensed pilot, a woman, and a member of WAI to apply for one of these scholarships. Applications are closed for 2012; however, WAI will again begin accepting them during the summer of 2012 for the 2013 awards. You can find complete information about all of the required qualification and materials you will need for your application package at http://www.wai.org/education/scholarships.cfm.

Opportunity Scholarships of the Women of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

This organization funds a number of scholarships annually for Lutheran Laywomen in order to provide assistance to those studying for a career other than the ordained ministry.
Specific scholarships include:

• Amelia Kemp Scholarship for ELCA women of color in undergraduate, graduate, professional or vocational courses of study
• Belmer/Flora Prince and Kahler, Vickers/Raup, Wettstein Scholarships for ELCA women studying for ELCA service abroad, either in general or in health professions associated with ELCA projects abroad
• Drinkall Franke/Seeley Knudstrup Scholarships for ELCA women in graduate courses of study preparing for occupations in Christian service
• Cronk Memorial, First Triennium Board, General, Mehring, Paepke, Piero/Wade/Wade, Edwin/Edna Robeck Scholarships for ELCA women in undergraduate, graduate, professional, or vocational courses of study

Complete application information may be found on line at the ELCA scholarship website http://www.elca.org/Growing-In-Faith/Ministry/Women-of-the-ELCA/Engage-in-action-and-support-one-another-in-our-callings/Scholarships.aspx.

World Studio Foundation AIGA

If you are an art student, a woman, and economically disadvantaged, you might qualify for this scholarship. The goal of the World Studio Foundation is to promote social and environmental awareness and responsibility in the art world of tomorrow as they increase diversity and provide opportunities to talented students who might not otherwise be able to further their educations. Awards range from $2,000 to $3,000, and are used to fund semester study at Columbia College of Columbia University in New York City. Application deadline is March 30, 2012. To find out more about the foundation, the schools, and the scholarships available, visit the website: http://scholarships.worldstudioinc.com/.

Scholarships for Moms

If you are a Mom, there has never been a better time to look for funding to further your education. In many cases it does not matter whether you have started college or not – just substantiating your need for financial assistance is the first step. To get you going, go to www.fafsa.ed.gov. There you will find the Free Application for Federal Student Assistance to fill out. Upon its completion, you will receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) based upon the results of your application. You will need these results to apply for grants and scholarships based on financial need.

A.N.T.S.H.E. Scholarships (Association of Non-Traditional Students in Higher Education)

There are two major scholarships awarded by this organization. Whereas they are not restricted to mothers, they do embrace this group as non-traditional students. They are:

• Marius “Gabe” DeGabriele Scholarship – For graduate students in higher education
• Kazimour Scholarship – For undergraduate students majoring in higher education
• Contributors Scholarship – For undergraduate students supported by donations and contributions from members and sponsors.

Application process for these awards is the same. All require transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement that, among other things, outlines your financial struggles as you return to school. If you are a graduate student you must have a minimum GPA of 3.5. If you are an undergraduate you must have at least a 3.25 based on your last 30 credit hours. Application Deadline is January 15, 2012. For the application, more eligibility requirements, and more details, go to: http://www.antshe.org/scholarships.

Displaced Homemakers

If you are a Native American who would not be able to pursue further education without financial assistance, you should inquire about these scholarships. They are directed toward older students who have put off going to college to raise their families. Awards are in the amount of $750 per semester, and may be used for childcare, transportation, and for basic living expenses. The funds are distributed through the school. These awards are renewable, but you must reapply each year. To find out if you meet the qualifications, call 240-314-7155.

The Sunshine Lady Foundation – Women’s Independence Scholarship Program

If you are survivor of partner abuse, and are trying to make a better life for you and your children by going to college, you may qualify for these generous awards. Special consideration is given to women with small children because they face the greatest hardship associated with working and going to school, such as increased expenses for childcare. The awards have no specific dollar amount set, however, are usually for around $2,000. Awards are designated to be used first for tuition, books, and fees and will go directly to the school in which you are enrolled. Secondary purposes for use include childcare and transportation costs. You may apply at any time of the year. The website for more information is: http://www.wispinc.org/programs/WISP/tabid/62/Default.aspx.

Patsy Takemoto Mink Education Foundation for Low Income Women and Children

This was the first woman of color ever to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives where she served the 2nd Congressional District of Hawaii. Her major concerns were women’s rights, integrity of domestic progress, and justice. There are five scholarships presented each year in her name to low income moms in pursuit of higher education to better opportunities available to her and her family. Application information will be posted on this website – http://www.patsyminkfoundation.org in April.

Scholarships for Women . . . Grants

Most applications for grants in this category will require that you complete the FAFSA application. To get you going, go to www.fafsa.gov. There you will find the Free Application for Federal Student Assistance to fill out. Upon completion you will receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) based upon the results of your application. You will need these results to apply for grants and scholarships based on financial need.

Scholarships for Women . . . Pell Grants

The amount of these grants has been increased this year to up to $5,100 – one of the best you can get. President Obama has made it a priority that “Moms Return to School” in order to provide a better life for their children. There is even talk now of increasing the amount of the grants further. First, decide where you would like to attend school, and find out if they accept Pell Grants. Then complete the FAFSA application noted above and have the results sent to the school where you have applied. That’s all there is to it. Try it – you’ll never know unless you do!

Academic Competitive Grant (ACG)

If you are a first or second year student who had an excellent academic record in high school, you may be eligible for this federal grant. Award is in the amount of $750 if you are a first-year student and $1,300 if you are in your second year. You must complete the FSFSA noted above to apply. http://studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/NewPrograms.jsp.

Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)

Again, to qualify for this grant you must first complete the FSFSA. These are awarded on the basis of who has the most substantial need for financial assistance, and are in the amount of $100 to $4,000. http://studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/FSEOG.jsp.

School Grants

Due to the numbers of moms returning to school, many local colleges and universities are now offering grants to students attending their institutions. You will have to complete the FSFSA application on line to qualify. Inquire at your school’s Financial Aid Office.

State Grants

Individual states also offer specific grants to women, moms and single moms. Go to your state government education website and see what they have listed.

Scholarships for Women Who Are Single Moms

Accounting Scholarships for Women in Transition

If you are a woman who is the sole provider of support for your family due to divorce or death of your spouse, you may qualify for one of these generous scholarships. This is a 4-year scholarship totaling $16,000. Personal circumstances other than those noted above may also be considered. Application deadline is April 30. If you would like to find out more and see if you qualify for this award, go to the website: http://www.efwa.org/scholarships.php.

Agnes Drexler Kujawa Memorial Scholarship

If you are a single mom and at least 30 years of age, and have custody of least one child you should explore this opportunity. You must be enrolled for at least six undergraduate or three graduate credits per semester. This award is in the amount of $1,000, and can be used in any major field of study. If you would like more information about this scholarship, contact the University of Wisconsin—Oshkosh.

Grants, Scholarships, & Loans

Most applications for grants in this category will require that you complete the FAFSA application. To get you going, go to www.fafsa.ed.gov. There you will find the Free Application for Federal Student Assistance to fill out. Upon completion you will receive your Student Aid Report (SAR) based upon the results of your application. You will need these results to apply for grants and scholarships based on financial need.

Grants and Loans

If you are a single mom and seeking financial help to return to school so you can make a better life for you and your kids, one of the most informative websites out there is http://www.singlemom.com. It is full of information about such things and it includes a lot of information about every day life as the sole support of a family. Check it out!

State Grants

Individual states also offer specific grants to women, moms and single moms. Go to your states government education website and see what they have listed.

Scholarships for Women Returning to School

American Association of University Women Career Development Grants

The AAUW has long supported further education for all women. These particular grants, however, address women of color, with bachelor’s degrees, who have decided to go back to school to further their current careers, change career fields, or return to the workplace. Grant amounts vary from $2,000 to $12,000 each. Selection priority is given to women pursuing their first advanced degree or credentialing in a non-traditional field for women, or to women interested in technical or professional fields who intend to pursue a master’s degree, a second bachelor’s degree, or specialized training to prepare them to work in those areas. If you would like further information, you can find more specific details, on the website: http://www.aauw.org/learn/fellows_directory/. Annual deadline is 1/15.

American Association of University Women (AAUW) – Project Renew Grant

This scholarship is designed to give college graduates the opportunity to pursue graduate studies. It is in the amount of $5,000. The number of awards given each year varies. For more information write to the Director of Scholarships, American Association of University Women, 1111 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036, or go on line to http://www.aauw.org/learn/fellows_directory/index.cfm. Application deadline is 1/15.

Business & Professional Women’s Foundation (BPF): Career Advancement Scholarship Program

This organization has funded scholarships for women who can demonstrate critical financial need since 1969. To apply for this award you must be over 25 years of age and be on schedule to graduate within 12-24 months of receiving this award. Plans should include adding additional skills or training for a new career path, or to re-enter the job market. Funds may be used for full or part-time study. These awards range from $500 to $1,000 each. Watch this website for this year’s details: http://www.bpwfoundation.org/. Application process is managed by BPWF’s state Legacy Partners and a complete list also appears on the main website.

Laurels Fund

If you’ve decided to go back to school to get an advanced degree in accounting, this might appeal to you. The award is for $5,000. There is a time restriction on when you complete your testing to return to graduate school. For full details, go to the website: http://www.efwa.org/scholarships_laurels_fund.php.

Linda Lael Miller

These scholarships are awarded each year to women who are 25 years or older, who are non-traditional students who have a difficult time finding scholarships for which they qualify. Funds provided may be used for tuition books, childcare, transportation as well as other expenses. This program is personally funded by talented author and public speaker Linda Lael Miller as a reflection of her personal philosophy, “Educate a woman, and countless generations to come will benefit from the investment.” Application deadline is September 4, 2012. For full details about this scholarship fund and its provider, visit the website at http://www.lindalaelmiller.com/scholarships/scholarships.asp.

Michelle L. McDonald Scholarship

Are you going back to school after time in the work force or after raising your family? Do you plan to major in accounting? This award is in the amount of $1,000 designated for a woman just like you! Website can provide more details: http://www.efwa.org/scholarships_McDonald.php.

Jeannette Rankin Foundation Scholarships

If you are a woman who is 35 years of age or older, and you’ve decided to break out of your low-income job by pursuing an associates degree, your first bachelor’s degree, or if you plan to attend a vocational or technical school, this scholarship just might be your ticket to the future. Rankin Scholars must use funds awarded at specified accredited schools and institutions. These scholarships for women have been presented since 1976. If you would like more information about the 2012 scholarships, watch the website for updates: http://www.rankinfoundation.org/.

Soroptimist’s Women’s Opportunity Awards

Soroptimist is an international women’s service organization whose mission is making the lives of challenged women better by providing scholarships. They present these awards annually in varying amounts. Recipients are women who have overcome great obstacles such as poverty, alcoholism, or abuse, and who provide the sole support for their families. The awards are designed to be used in any way – books, tuition, or childcare – whatever is needed to make attending college easier, or even possible, for these women. The 2011 awards were just presented; however, applications will be accepted for 2012 awards in the fall. For more information about qualifications and how to apply go to: http://www.soroptimist.org/awards/awards.html.

University of San Francisco McLaren School of Business: Laura D. Sypin Memorial Scholarship

Are you currently employed, but seeking a way to improve your career status? Or, are you are thinking of re-entering the workplace? If either of those situations is yours, this is a possible way to finance your business degree. The amount of the award varies each year. If you would like more information, contact the McLaren Office of External Affairs at 415-422-2513.

Scholarships for Women -- Nursing

In the last ten years a critical nursing shortage has been growing in the United States. Nursing class enrollments are down by over 30%, while the increased number of baby boomer elderly grows in the other direction. The possible solution to this problem may be the rapid rise in percentages of students over 40 – primarily women – who are choosing to return to school and pursue a second career in nursing. In uneasy economic times, the prospect is more than attractive: job security, high pay, good work schedules, and a profession that is a lot more appealing than working in an office. Women over 40 who are seeking admission to nursing school have several other things working in their favor. They are mature! Their families are more independent. They make excellent nurses for a myriad of reasons – and because of this fact, there are a bundle of scholarships, loans, and other forms of financial aid available to these women. If you are interested in pursuing nursing as a second career – or a first career -- here are but a few of the opportunities for funding available.

Health Professions Preparatory Scholarship Program

This scholarship is awarded to an American Indian or Alaska Native who needs assistance enrolling in a health professions school. The recipient of the award will receive $1,160 per month over the course of 10 months. The award will span two years for full time studies and 4 years for part time studies. The application deadline is February of each calendar year. The number of awards varies each year. http://www.ihs.gov/California/universal/PageMain.cfm?p=451

The National Black Nurses Association Scholarships

The association is dedicated to excellence in healthcare and conducts continuing education classes for healthcare professionals as well as sponsoring scholarships to encourage growth of the nursing profession. Scholarships available for the 2012 year are:

• Martha A. Dawson Genesis Scholarship
• Martha Dudley Advanced Scholarship
• Martha R. Dudley Scholarship
• Ruth E. Miller Scholarship
• NBNA Board of Directors Scholarship
• Margaret Pemberton Scholarship
• Dr. Lauranne Sams Scholarship
• Reverend Pauline L. Cole Scholarship
• Sheila Haley Scholarship
• United Health Foundation Scholarship
• Esther Colliflower/VITAS Innovative Hospice Care Scholarship

Each of these awards, ranging in amounts from $500 to $2,000, is awarded to nursing students who are members of the National Black Nurses Association. Each organization gives one or more scholarships each year. For complete details on each award, go to http://www.nbna.org, click on ‘Membership’ and read about scholarship opportunities.

Caroline E. Holt Nursing Scholarship

This scholarship is presented to a number of nursing students each year in the amount of $500 each. The fund is administered by the Daughters of the American Revolution who can be reached at http://www.dar.org.

State Nursing Association Scholarships

Every state in the union has a state nursing association, and each of these offers scholarships. To find yours, get on line and Google your state organization. In addition to scholarship and grant information, they will have lots of other useful information to guide you in your search.