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Vivian Winston Scholarship

Awarding funds to local mothers juggling the cost of tuition and childcare.

Scholars are selected on the basis of academic merit and exemplary character with preference given to students demonstrating financial need. The value of the award is $1,500 to $4,000.

 

About the Scholarship

A scholarship fund was established in 2006 to honor WHWF Co-Founder, Vivian Winston. Winston focused on social justice work, long before it was trendy. She was an early advocate for women and children, a member of Spokane’s chapter of the League of Women Voters from its inception in 1948, as well as the first woman president of Spokane’s United Way in 1969.

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Meet the 2023-24 Scholars

Current VWS
Anngie

Anngie

Spokane Community College

"I am a single mom of a sweet 5-year-old boy. I came from Venezuela to the US six years ago. I did a lot of hard labor work until I got an opportunity as Program Manager in a nonprofit organization.

There I found out that I wanted to help people, change lives, but through the time, I couldn't stop thinking about my real vocation that I did let go when I was a teenager. Same feeling, help people and change their lives but in the medical field, that is why now, I am getting my required classes for the nursing program at SCC. With my mind focus on the title of Surgery NP that it my main goal. No matter that I am just in the beginning of this dream."

Ashley

Ashley

Washington State University - Spokane

"As a 25-year-old mom of two balancing being a mom and finishing my degree is a challenge I welcome. I want to provide for my children and show them they can find a career path that supports others and is fulfilling.

Having taken a roundabout way to get where I am, I believe in hard work and perseverance. I know that I am living in a way that teaches my kids these values and I am so grateful for the support we have received for our family."

Katrina

Katrina

Spokane Community College

"I have won this scholarship the last two years. Being given this amazing opportunity has allowed me to keep a roof over our heads and afforded me the huge blessing of being able to focus on my studies.

I have been able to overcome the obstacles in my life by reaching out for support, being open to change, being vulnerable, and through sheer determination. My children are my biggest reason to live and continue to improve our situation."

Lesly

Lesly

Whitworth University

"I am a first-generation college student, daughter of immigrants, and a mother of two. My children are my ultimate motivation in my pursuit of higher education. In my life journey, I have had to navigate various levels of legal proceedings and have come to experience firsthand the cultural biases and obstacles immigrants, specifically, immigrant women of color must overcome when needing to access legal services.

Although my story is not unique, it is unique to the legal field where only 2% of Latinas are currently practicing. I believe representation is important and necessary for equitable change."

Desiree

Desiree

Western Governors University

"I am a mother to four girls, small business owner, early childhood educator and music teacher. My three oldest daughters and I are domestic violence survivors and I knew that after what we went through I wanted to help children and parents. I realized it was my calling to teach. I am currently on my way to earn my BA in Elementary Education and will continue on to get my masters in Music Education. My life wasn’t always this hopeful. I want my daughters and all women and children to know you can overcome your trauma and start again!"

Whitney

Whitney

Washington State University - Spokane

"I returned to school after my son was born in 2018, inspired by the incredible nurses and health professionals who helped me recover from alcoholism nearly a decade ago. Graduating from Washington State University College of Nursing in December 2023, I'm eager to start my career and make a difference in people's lives."

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Application Information

VWS App Infomaton

Eligibility

To qualify for the Vivian Winston Scholarship, the student must meet the following criteria:

  • Female student at Eastern Washington University, Gonzaga University, Washington State University-Spokane, Whitworth University, Spokane Falls Community College, Spokane Community College, or a trade/certificate program

  • Pursuing an Associate Degree, Bachelor's Degree or special certification (including trade or technical)

  • A resident of Spokane County while attending school

  • Have dependent child(ren) requiring child care during the 2024-25 school year

Application and Award Timeline

  • Applications may be submitted between April 1, 2024 and  January 31, 2025. 

  • Finalists will be notified in early February 2025 and asked to participate in an interview.

  • Recipients will be notified in April 2025.

 

Application Tips

  • Follow directions. If you have any questions, reach out to our office at 509.328.8285 (call or text) or info@whwfspokane.org

  • Make sure your essay responses are complete and include detail. We want to get to know you!

  • Highlight your strengths, passions and successes.

  • Read through the entire application before writing answers.

  • Ask a family member, teacher or counselor to review your application for errors.

 

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