Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) have, for many years, been an area of focus those interested in increasing opportunities for women and ethnic minorities. Scholarships, recruitment and outreach programs seek to increase the number of women in these fields.
American Veterinary Medical Foundation
The American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF) offers more than 20 scholarships from university alumni associations and also partners with other organizations to provide scholarships. Eligible applicants are students at accredited veterinary schools in the United States. AVMF makes announcements on its website about veterinary scholarships from other sources.
American Veterinary Medical Foundation 1931 N. Meacham Rd. Schaumburg, IL 60173 800-248-2862 avma.org
American Association of University Women
The American Association of University Women (AAUW) provides scholarships to women of color to increase their involvement in careers where they are underrepresented. AAUW also supports "selected professions fellows," students majoring in selected areas of concentration; these areas change periodically.
American Association of University Women 1111 16th St. NW Washington, DC 20036 202-785-7700 aauw.org/index.cfm
Association for Women in Science
The Association for Women in Science makes educational awards to women majoring in the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Eligible applicants are undergraduate sophomores and juniors, and graduate students enrolled in a program leading to a doctoral degree. Applicants can be U.S. citizens or foreign nationals, but must attend a U.S. school. Applicants must be planning a career in research or university teaching.
Association for Women in Science 14422 Duke St. Alexandria, VA 22314 703-312-5985 awis.org
Development Fund for Black Students in Science and Technology
The Development Fund was established to assist African-American students majoring in technical or scientific areas at historically Black colleges or universities. Eligible applicants are undergraduates and U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Selection is based on grades, SAT scores, essays, recommendations and financial need.
Development Fund for Black Students in Science and Technology 2705 Bladensburg Road, NE Washington, DC 20018 202-635-3604 dfbsst.dlhjr.com/index.html
National FFA Organization
Formerly known as the Future Farmers of America, the National FFA Organization coordinates more than 1,000 scholarships from charitable organizations, corporations and other sources. Applicants complete one application to apply for the scholarships, six of which are available to non-members. Selection is based on FFA involvement, community service, academics and other involvement in the veterinary field.
National FFA Organization P.O. Box 68960 Indianapolis, IN 46268-0960 317-802-6060 ffa.org
Saul T. Wilson Jr. Scholarship Program
The Saul T. Wilson Scholarship is a program of the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), U.S. Department of Agriculture. APHIS provides scholarships, internships and employment for students in high school, undergraduate and graduate programs. Eligible applicants are undergraduates and graduate students enrolled in veterinary schools who have completed one to two years of study, and who enter into a work agreement with the USDA.
Saul T. Wilson Jr. Scholarship Program USDA, APHIS, Human Resources/Employment 4700 River Road, Unit 106 Riverdale, MD 20737 301-734–5596. aphis.usda.gov/
United Negro College Fund
Students who receive scholarships from the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) must attend an HBCU, five of which offer graduate programs in animal science. UNCF administers 400 corporate and private scholarships and provides a searchable database on its website. Applications can be completed online.
United Negro College Fund P.O. Box 10444 Fairfax, VA 22031-8044 800-331-224 uncf.org/
Federal Student Aid
Students with financial need may apply for a Pell Grant or a Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG). The are provided by the U.S. Department of Education. To apply, students must complete the online FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). Federal student aid is administered by schools.
Federal Student Aid Programs studentaid.ed.gov/PORTALSWebApp/students/english/grants.jsp
Tips
Veterinary and animal science programs offer scholarships and may engage in minority recruitment.
Professional organizations offer scholarships and keep their communities informed of opportunities.
Searchable online databases allow users to filter their searches.
Black College Dollars, a service of the government agency Sallie Mae, provides a database and other resources.
References
Resources
Writer Bio
Gail Sessoms, a grant writer and nonprofit consultant, writes about nonprofit, small business and personal finance issues. She volunteers as a court-appointed child advocate, has a background in social services and writes about issues important to families. Sessoms holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in liberal studies.