Grants for Women

Women make up the majority of college students enrolling and graduating from college. Women are becoming more of a force in high-profile careers and underrepresented fields such as mathematics. They do this while maintaining a family life, in most cases.

With the advent of scholarship and grant programs tailored to women there has been an increase in the academic success rate of women in the U.S. Although there are many programs available to all women, majority of them focus on women of minority or who are not U.S. citizens. In addition, a large number of programs tailored to women places emphasis on excellent academic records and recommendations, while others emphasize the financial need of the individual and her family.

American Association of University Women (AAUW)

American Association of University Women is a nationwide network of more than 100,000 members and donors, 1,000 branches, and 600 college and university partners.

AAUW has been around for 130 years and takes a position on issues regarding education, society, the economy, and politics.

Its mission is to advance equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research.

The American Association of University Women’s Selected Professions Fellowship provides awards between $5,000 and $20,000 to women enrolled in graduate studies in underrepresented courses of study.

Twitter: @AAUW

Kalamazoo Network

The Women’s Education Coalition is a venture of groups and sororities to change lives through education.

Since it was established in 1995, the fund has granted approximately $563,000 for educational purposes and approximately $59,600 in emergency grants. In 2006, 11 first-time recipients received $19,500.

Because of their commitment to changing lives through education, $40,500 in renewal grants were awarded to 21 recipients.

The need for emergency funds continues to exist. During the 2006-07 award year, $6,500 was provided for awardees to assist with unexpected expenses that otherwise might have forced their withdrawal from school.

Twitter: @kalfound

Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund

The Jeannette Rankin Women’s Scholarship Fund has been awarding scholarships to help over 500 women across the United States since 1978.

They provide college grant opportunities for financially challenged women 35 and older. The program awards are $1,500 and up.

Twitter: @rankinfund

Association for Women in Science

The M.Hildred Blewett Scholarship is offered to enable early-career women to return to physics research careers after having had to interrupt those careers for family reasons.

The scholarship consists of a one-year award (applicants can apply in a subsequent year for one additional year of support).

Allowed expenses include dependent care (limited to 50% of the award), salary, travel, equipment, and tuition and fees.

The applicant must currently be a U.S. citizen, legal resident, or resident alien of the United States or Canada.

She must be currently in Canada or the United States and must have an affiliation with a research-active educational institution or national lab.

She must have completed work toward a Ph.D. This scholarship awards up to $45,000.

The Alice T. Schafer Prize Association for Women in Mathematics is awarded to an undergraduate woman in recognition of excellence in mathematics and is sponsored by the Association for Women in Mathematics (AWM).

The Schafer Prize was established in 1990 by the executive committee of the AWM and is named for former AWM president and one of its founding members, Alice T. Schafer, who has contributed a great deal to women in mathematics throughout her career.

The criteria for selection include, but are not limited to, the quality of the nominees’ performance in mathematics courses and special programs, an exhibition of real interest in mathematics, ability to do independent work, and if applicable, performance in mathematical competitions.

The AWIS even provides incentives for the group through the MAA Grants for Women in Mathematics Projects.

The MAA plans to award grants for projects designed to encourage college and university women or high school and middle school girls to study mathematics.

The Tensor Foundation, working through the MAA, is soliciting college, university, and secondary mathematics faculty (in conjunction with college or university faculty) and their departments and institutions to submit proposals.

Twitter: @AWISNational

Women’s Independence Scholarship Program

The Women’s Independence Scholarship Program (WISP) is to enhance efforts to end domestic violence by offering scholarships to survivors of intimate partner abuse and people who work in the field of domestic violence. WISP is supported by the Sunshine Lady Foundation, an organization that works to provide financial aid to victims of domestic abuse. Survivors of domestic violence receive needed and necessary attention to pursue a college education.

Women in Science and Privacy

Diverse viewpoints and talent are essential in the quickly changing fields of cybersecurity and data privacy. Women in Security and Privacy (WISP) is a pioneering organization that promotes inclusivity and empowers women in these industries. This blog post examines the importance of WISP and its goals to close the gender gap, foster professional development, and spur innovation in the security and privacy sector.

Breaking Down Barriers and Closing the Gender Gap: The Women’s Information Security and Privacy Association (WISP) is a dynamic group that actively promotes gender inclusion and diversity in the formerly male-dominated professions of security and privacy. WISP promotes women to seek jobs in these fields and aids in the removal of obstacles that have previously impeded their advancement by creating a supportive network.

Creating Networking Opportunities

One of the key strengths of WISP lies in its ability to facilitate networking and mentorship opportunities. The organization hosts regular events, conferences, and webinars where professionals from various backgrounds come together to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and build connections. Through these interactions, women in security and privacy gain valuable insights, expand their professional networks, and find support systems to navigate the challenges they face.

Professional Development and Empowerment

WISP provides a myriad of resources and programs aimed at advancing the professional development of its members. From workshops and training sessions to career coaching and leadership development initiatives, WISP equips women with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive in their careers. By empowering women with education and fostering their growth, WISP strives to create a more inclusive and equitable industry.

Inspiring Role Models and Mentors

Within WISP, there is a strong emphasis on mentorship and the cultivation of role models. By connecting aspiring professionals with seasoned industry veterans, WISP fosters an environment of support and guidance. Mentors share their experiences, offer career advice, and serve as beacons of inspiration for women at various stages of their journeys. This mentorship dynamic helps pave the way for future generations of women in security and privacy.

Driving Innovation and Thought Leadership

WISP plays a crucial role in shaping the future of security and privacy through its emphasis on innovation and thought leadership. By amplifying the voices of women in the industry, WISP challenges existing norms and drives discussions on emerging trends, technologies, and policies. This collective intelligence contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of security and privacy issues and fosters innovative solutions.

Women in Security and Privacy (WISP) stands at the forefront of the movement to empower women professionals in the security and privacy fields. Through its commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and professional development, WISP is reshaping the industry’s landscape. By creating networking opportunities, offering mentorship, and driving innovation, WISP is transforming the narrative around women in security and privacy, ensuring that their voices are heard and their contributions acknowledged. Together, with organizations like WISP, we can build a more diverse, equitable, and secure future.

Twitter: @wisporg