The AAUW Portsmouth Branch is offering a $2,000 scholarship for up to four (4) consecutive years to a female graduating from a Suffolk Public High School in June 2024. This scholarship may be renewed if the student makes satisfactory progress toward a degree and maintains a “B” or better GPA. The recipient of the scholarship and her family will be asked to attend a future AAUW meeting. Scholarship funds will be sent to the college of her choice listed on the application.
This scholarship is in memory of Fran Alwood, who was a Charter Member of the AAUW Suffolk (VA) Branch, and a former Suffolk High School language teacher, guidance counselor and Suffolk Public School Board member. According to Joyce Trump, former superintendent of Suffolk City Schools, “Fran served with distinction as a school board member. She always listened and because of her intellect she could recommend an incredible solution but always one that came from her heart.”
This scholarship is a fitting memorial to Fran’s life: as a life-long learner herself, it was her great joy to teach English as a second language and to tutor and mentor young girls and women continuously during her long life. She devoted herself to family, church, and education of children from all over the world but especially those who were part of her beloved Suffolk family.
The AAUW Portsmouth Branch assumed administration of the Fran Alwood Scholarship upon the disbandment of the AAUW Suffolk Branch in 2022.
The criteria for application include the following:
- Maintains a grade point average of “B” or above.
- Completes the application form and a personal essay.
- Provides recommendations from two teachers (may include guidance counselor) and one non-family member.
- Provides an official high school transcript.
- Completes the online application online no later than April 15, 2024.