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 $5,000.

About the Scholarship

A scholarship fund was established in 2006 to honor WHWF Co-Founder, Vivian Winston. Winston focused on social justice work and was an early advocate for women and children. Not only was she a member of Spokane’s chapter of the League of Women Voters from its inception in 1948 she was also the first woman president of Spokane’s United Way in 1969.

The scolarship application for the 2026-27 school year will open in December 2025.

ELIGIBILITY & TIMELINE

Meet the 2025-26 Scholars

Current VWS

I am a stay home mother to three amazing children and a full time student. I will begin the education program at EWU this spring and I am very grateful to have been chosen for this scholarship as it will make graduation in the winter of 2026 possible.

I chose to go back to school to be a teacher in the hopes that I can help make a difference in the lives of my students. I have worked in both mental health and correctional facilities and in speaking to both patients and incarcerated individuals I have found that they attributed their incarceration or need for mental health support to the lack of support in their teenage years. I hope that is in what I learned from them, I can be that support person for my students.

Ashly

Eastern Washington University

I am a stay home mother to three amazing children and a full time student. I will begin the education program at EWU this spring and I am very grateful to have been chosen for this scholarship as it will make graduation in the winter of 2026 possible.

I chose to go back to school to be a teacher in the hopes that I can help make a difference in the lives of my students. I have worked in both mental health and correctional facilities and in speaking to both patients and incarcerated individuals I have found that they attributed their incarceration or need for mental health support to the lack of support in their teenage years. I hope that is in what I learned from them, I can be that support person for my students. 

Emily

Spokane Community College

I am a former refugee from Afghanistan. Because I am not a native English speaker, I have to work very hard to understand the language of medicine but it is my dream. In Afghanistan it is now impossible for women to go to college even to study medicine. I want to be an example to my family and my community to show Afghan women can succeed in academic careers. My family is very supportive to me. It is a big dream for me.

Frozan

Spokane Community College

I am a former refugee from Afghanistan. Because I am not a native English speaker, I have to work very hard to understand the language of medicine but it is my dream. In Afghanistan it is now impossible for women to go to college even to study medicine. I want to be an example to my family and my community to show Afghan women can succeed in academic careers. My family is very supportive to me. It is a big dream for me.

“My past does not define who I am today.” Receiving this Scholarship is not just financial assistance; it's recognition of the strength it takes to transform hardships into determination to build a better future for me and my daughter.

Building a strong foundation rooted in faith, empathy, and forgiveness is central to everything I do. I’ve learned that grace is real, that forgiveness is powerful, and that we are never too far gone. As I prepare to graduate this coming spring with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice, my goals have never been clearer. I am deeply committed to working in environments where I can serve and uplift the most vulnerable individuals and communities. Wherever I end up, I know my purpose: to help restore hope to the most vulnerable, to be a living example of redemption, and to break cycles—not just for my own family, but for anyone who crosses my path in need of compassion and direction.

One of the greatest joys of my recovery journey has been rediscovering my own passions, especially horseback riding, and know I get to share that with my daughter. Equally important to me is helping my young daughter embrace and celebrate her Native American heritage. As she grows, I want her to feel grounded in who she is and where she comes from.

I am sincerely thankful for this opportunity and for you believing in me and supporting my journey. Knowing that there are so many strong, resilient, and deserving women out there, I am incredibly honored and humbled to be chosen!

Jessica

Eastern Washington University

“My past does not define who I am today.” Receiving this Scholarship is not just financial assistance; it's recognition of the strength it takes to transform hardships into determination to build a better future for me and my daughter.

Building a strong foundation rooted in faith, empathy, and forgiveness is central to everything I do. I’ve learned that grace is real, that forgiveness is powerful, and that we are never too far gone. As I prepare to graduate this coming spring with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and a minor in Criminal Justice, my goals have never been clearer. I am deeply committed to working in environments where I can serve and uplift the most vulnerable individuals and communities. Wherever I end up, I know my purpose: to help restore hope to the most vulnerable, to be a living example of redemption, and to break cycles—not just for my own family, but for anyone who crosses my path in need of compassion and direction.

One of the greatest joys of my recovery journey has been rediscovering my own passions, especially horseback riding, and know I get to share that with my daughter. Equally important to me is helping my young daughter embrace and celebrate her Native American heritage. As she grows, I want her to feel grounded in who she is and where she comes from.

I am sincerely thankful for this opportunity and for you believing in me and supporting my journey. Knowing that there are so many strong, resilient, and deserving women out there, I am incredibly honored and humbled to be chosen!

I am a dedicated single mom of two and nursing student working hard to complete my education and build a meaningful career in healthcare. Recently, I had a baby, adding a second child to my family. Being a mom has been a life-changing experience that has brought both incredible joy and significant challenges.

Balancing the demands of school and motherhood has tested my strength, perseverance, and time management skills. My accomplishments and independence thus far have been rewarding and empowering, really showing myself what women are capable of.

This is all due to the amazing women surrounding me and who have lead and guided me to get to the next level. I'm deeply honored to receive this award as it lifts financial burdens I will face towards the end of my time earning my bachelors degree. Receiving this scholarship is not only a tremendous financial relief, but also encouragement that my efforts are seen and valued.

Kayla

Eastern Washington University

I am a dedicated single mom of two and nursing student working hard to complete my education and build a meaningful career in healthcare. Recently, I had a baby, adding a second child to my family. Being a mom has been a life-changing experience that has brought both incredible joy and significant challenges.

Balancing the demands of school and motherhood has tested my strength, perseverance, and time management skills. My accomplishments and independence thus far have been rewarding and empowering, really showing myself what women are capable of.

This is all due to the amazing women surrounding me and who have lead and guided me to get to the next level. I'm deeply honored to receive this award as it lifts financial burdens I will face towards the end of my time earning my bachelors degree. Receiving this scholarship is not only a tremendous financial relief, but also encouragement that my efforts are seen and valued.

Kaylee

Spokane Community College

Hi everyone! My name is Kaylee and I'm 31 and a single mom to a sweet four-year-old boy, who is such a blessing to me!

I work part time as a nanny when I can and also this past year decided to go to school for nursing! I never had considered being a nurse before, but I love caring for other people, and want to use my gifts to serve others and also help create a better and more stable life for my family. I am so thankful for this award, and feel beyond blessed to be a recipient. This will allow me to continue going to school full time while also being able to work some and focus and be the best mom I can be for my son. Thank you to everyone that helped make this possible. I am truly grateful from the bottom of my heart.

I chose to become an elementary teacher because of my older brother’s experience in school. My brother has ADHD and an auditory processing disorder, which made it difficult for him to process information quickly. Unfortunately, these challenges led to him being mistreated by many of his teachers.

As the younger sibling, it was painful for me to watch him face these challenges. The defeated look on his face each morning, dreading another day of school, made me scared to go to school myself. But I was considered the “easy” and “smart” student, so I never faced the same obstacles.

No child should ever feel the way he did—undervalued, incapable, and ashamed. Yet far too many children face similar struggles in silence. That’s why I am becoming a teacher: to make a positive, lasting impact on my students, and to ensure that none of them feel “less than” or that they aren’t worthy of success.

Teaching isn’t just about delivering lessons; it’s about building students up and creating an environment where every child feels seen, heard, and capable of achieving greatness. The words and actions of a teacher can shape a child’s self-worth, and I believe too many educators forget that. My goal is to be the teacher who sees the potential in every student, just as I wish my brother had been treated—because every child is capable of success.

Kuryn

Eastern Washington University

I chose to become an elementary teacher because of my older brother’s experience in school. My brother has ADHD and an auditory processing disorder, which made it difficult for him to process information quickly. Unfortunately, these challenges led to him being mistreated by many of his teachers.

As the younger sibling, it was painful for me to watch him face these challenges. The defeated look on his face each morning, dreading another day of school, made me scared to go to school myself. But I was considered the “easy” and “smart” student, so I never faced the same obstacles.

No child should ever feel the way he did—undervalued, incapable, and ashamed. Yet far too many children face similar struggles in silence. That’s why I am becoming a teacher: to make a positive, lasting impact on my students, and to ensure that none of them feel “less than” or that they aren’t worthy of success.

Teaching isn’t just about delivering lessons; it’s about building students up and creating an environment where every child feels seen, heard, and capable of achieving greatness. The words and actions of a teacher can shape a child’s self-worth, and I believe too many educators forget that. My goal is to be the teacher who sees the potential in every student, just as I wish my brother had been treated—because every child is capable of success.

I chose nursing because my mom was a nurse while I was growing up, and I have always admired her determination and dedication. Watching her pursue her nursing degree while raising four children inspired me to believe in the power of education and resilience. Her hard work gave our family a wonderful life, and I aspire to do the same for my son. Additionally, I chose the nursing path because it aligns with my passion for helping others. Nursing gives me the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people in need, and I am committed to providing compassionate care to those who rely on it.

Lark

Spokane Community College

I chose nursing because my mom was a nurse while I was growing up, and I have always admired her determination and dedication. Watching her pursue her nursing degree while raising four children inspired me to believe in the power of education and resilience. Her hard work gave our family a wonderful life, and I aspire to do the same for my son. Additionally, I chose the nursing path because it aligns with my passion for helping others. Nursing gives me the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of people in need, and I am committed to providing compassionate care to those who rely on it.

As I approach the final stretch of my university journey, receiving this scholarship feels both surreal and deeply emotional. This year, I also became a U.S. citizen—a full circle moment that represents not only my own perseverance but the answered prayers of my parents, who sacrificed so much to give me this opportunity.

Becoming the first college graduate in my family is a milestone I carry with immense pride and gratitude. This accomplishment would not have been possible without the incredible women who stood beside me—mentors, friends, and supporters who lifted me up when I needed it most.

To every single mother out there chasing her dreams: keep going. I promise, it’s worth it!

Lesly

Whitworth University

As I approach the final stretch of my university journey, receiving this scholarship feels both surreal and deeply emotional. This year, I also became a U.S. citizen—a full circle moment that represents not only my own perseverance but the answered prayers of my parents, who sacrificed so much to give me this opportunity.

Becoming the first college graduate in my family is a milestone I carry with immense pride and gratitude. This accomplishment would not have been possible without the incredible women who stood beside me—mentors, friends, and supporters who lifted me up when I needed it most.

To every single mother out there chasing her dreams: keep going. I promise, it’s worth it!

Receiving the Vivian Winston scholarship is a tremendous honor and I'm incredibly grateful for this opportunity, as it will significantly alleviate financial burdens during my final year in the Dental Hygiene program. This support not only empowers me to focus on my studies and clinical practice but also inspires me to give back to the community in the future, just as this scholarship has positively impacted my education journey.

Mariah

Eastern Washington University

Receiving the Vivian Winston scholarship is a tremendous honor and I'm incredibly grateful for this opportunity, as it will significantly alleviate financial burdens during my final year in the Dental Hygiene program. This support not only empowers me to focus on my studies and clinical practice but also inspires me to give back to the community in the future, just as this scholarship has positively impacted my education journey.

I want to sincerely thank God and the generous people behind the Vivian Winston Scholarship for your support in helping me continue my education at Spokane Community College.

Your support is not only covering my tuition—it’s also helping my daughter pursue her studies here at Spokane Community College. As a mother of three and a full-time student, this scholarship means more than words can express. I’m currently in my fifth quarter of the Nursing Assistant program, and I’m proud to say I’m the first in my family to reach this level of education. I’m an international student from Tanzania, and every step of this journey has been a big one.

Becoming a nurse is not just a career goal—it’s a calling.

My mother is a retired nurse who offered free care to people in our village. I grew up watching her bring relief and joy to others. I hope to follow in her footsteps by serving my community and helping others live healthier, better lives. Thank you again to the Vivian Winston Scholarship for believing in me and helping bring hope and smiles to my family.

Mwashi

Spokane Community College

I want to sincerely thank God and the generous people behind the Vivian Winston Scholarship for your support in helping me continue my education at Spokane Community College.

Your support is not only covering my tuition—it’s also helping my daughter pursue her studies here at Spokane Community College. As a mother of three and a full-time student, this scholarship means more than words can express. I’m currently in my fifth quarter of the Nursing Assistant program, and I’m proud to say I’m the first in my family to reach this level of education. I’m an international student from Tanzania, and every step of this journey has been a big one.

Becoming a nurse is not just a career goal—it’s a calling.

My mother is a retired nurse who offered free care to people in our village. I grew up watching her bring relief and joy to others. I hope to follow in her footsteps by serving my community and helping others live healthier, better lives. Thank you again to the Vivian Winston Scholarship for believing in me and helping bring hope and smiles to my family.

I want to express my deepest gratitude to you and the community for this generous opportunity. As a single mother to a daughter born with a complex case of bilateral clubfoot, this scholarship means more to us than words can fully capture.

Your support helps greatly in covering the ongoing medical expenses related to her condition and provides much-needed relief from some of the financial burdens we face. This generosity not only eases our stress but also reminds us that we are not alone, there is a community that cares and believes in our journey.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for making a real difference in our lives. This scholarship truly means the world to us.

Samantha

Spokane Community College

I want to express my deepest gratitude to you and the community for this generous opportunity. As a single mother to a daughter born with a complex case of bilateral clubfoot, this scholarship means more to us than words can fully capture.

Your support helps greatly in covering the ongoing medical expenses related to her condition and provides much-needed relief from some of the financial burdens we face. This generosity not only eases our stress but also reminds us that we are not alone, there is a community that cares and believes in our journey.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for making a real difference in our lives. This scholarship truly means the world to us.

I started this journey back to school much later in life than most people. I was a stay at home mom for over a decade and never believed college was possible for me. It hasn’t been easy, but I have made so many amazing accomplishments, it has all been worth it. I can't wait to see what the future holds. Thank you so much for choosing me for this scholarship. It means the world to me and my family.

Vanessa

Eastern Washington University

I started this journey back to school much later in life than most people. I was a stay at home mom for over a decade and never believed college was possible for me. It hasn’t been easy, but I have made so many amazing accomplishments, it has all been worth it. I can't wait to see what the future holds. Thank you so much for choosing me for this scholarship. It means the world to me and my family.

VWS App Infomaton

Application Information

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 2025-26 school year

Application and Award Timeline

Applications must be submitted in February 2026.
Recipients will be notified in Spring 2026.

Application Tips

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