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The Winona Smith Scholarship is awarded annually to graduating high school seniors who might not be able to further their educational journey due to financial constraints. Our primary goal is to award applicants for whom a scholarship would make the greatest impact. If you have questions about the scholarship program, send an email to league@lwvofvt.org.
2024 Scholarship Season is CLOSED
Check back in January 2025 to apply.
Scholarship Details
Award Amount
Three awards of $2,000. This one-time cash award is for study beginning in Fall at U.S. accredited colleges and universities, community colleges, trade and technical schools, and/or other career-oriented preparation.
RESTRICTIONS
Applicants must be graduating from a high school in Vermont at the time of the application and be in the process of applying for admission at a college or other institution in the fall of the year following graduation.
EVALUATION CRITERIA
Scholarships are awarded based on student interest in civic participation and community service, financial need, completed application form, required essays, and teacher commendation.
WHAT DO I NEED TO INCLUDE TO COMPLETE THE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION
The electronic application is the only method of application at this time. All applications must include the online application, two essays, and teacher letter of recommendation. Applicants are judged by the Education Fund’s Board of Directors. Only complete applications will be reviewed.
▪ Two essays of approximately 500 words each.
- Select an issue concerning voting rights or practices and briefly tell us your thoughts about it.
- Choose a recent civic, national or world event and briefly describe your thoughts about it.
▪ One Letter of Reference from a teacher or school representative who is familiar with your achievements and abilities. Please have them use this form to submit a scholarship applicant recommendation indicating why he/she/they believes you would be a fitting recipient for the Winona Smith Scholarship Award.
Scholarship APPLICATION TIMELINE
Applications are available starting mid-January and a complete application must be received on or before 12:00 p.m. (Noon) Eastern Standard Time on May 1st of the scholarship year. Applications received after this deadline will not be considered.
The League of Women Voters Education Fund is not responsible for any technical errors that may arise as you complete and submit your application. We especially encourage you to submit your application early to avoid any last-minute web traffic problems.
SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS NOTIFICATION
Awards are announced the first week of June each year. All applicants will be notified by email of the results. Award recipients will be contacted by phone and email. Recipient schools and local newspapers will be notified as well.