Every spring, as part of their mission, the Wooster branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) grants scholarships to women in Wayne County to fulfill their education quests. These are women who have not been able to continue to obtain degrees due to their education being interrupted.

These scholarships are granted in amounts ranging from $500 to $2,500. Funds are raised each fall from the annual book sale at the fairgrounds. Presently, the book sale is a joint effort between the AAUW and the Kiwanis, the third year that the AAUW has partnered with the Kiwanis. The vision of the AAUW Book Fair began in the 1950s and was held twice a year to raise funds for women returning to college. Additional monies were raised with bridge parties, Christmas card sales, movies, and tax stamp redemption. Records show the first scholarship was granted in 1952. The annual book fair at the Wayne County Fairgrounds began around 1988.

Applications are available for any Wayne County woman and can be obtained from the Wayne County Community Foundation website at http://www.waynecountycommunityfoundation.org\scholarships.htm. This is for the non-traditional student planning to obtain an undergraduate associates degree or a bachelor’s degree. It is not for graduating high school seniors or those obtaining a graduate degree. Applications must be mailed to the scholarship chair by May 1. The applications will be reviewed by a committee and selection will be made by weighing the application submitted, letters of recommendation, financial need, career goals and community and/or professional involvement. The applicants will be notified of selection by June 15, and the funds will be available after July 1. The funds can be used for tuition or books with a submitted invoice. The money must be used within a two-year period. Previous scholarship recipients may apply for a second year. Any questions may be directed to Sharon Logan Kelly, Chair at skelly0628@gmail.com.