Community Education

Minerva Scholarship applications due at end of March

The Greater Gig Harbor Foundation’s Minerva Scholarship Fund is accepting applications for the 2026-2027 academic year.

Women who live or work within the boundaries of the Peninsula School District, and who experienced at least a one-year interruption in their education and plan to complete a degree or certification, are eligible.

Applications are due March 31. Click here for information or to begin an online application.

Students can use scholarships to complete a vocational program, two- or four-year degrees or a graduate-level program. Accredited online degree programs and out-of-state schools also qualify.

Scholarship recipients have pursued a wide variety of careers including nanoengineering, truck driving, medicine, cosmetology, particle physics, and education. Current recipients progressing toward their degrees and certifications may apply for continuing scholarship assistance.

Three members of the Gig Harbor branch American Association of University Women established Minerva in 1991.

“The founders of Minerva recognized the impact education had on their own lives and careers and wanted to empower other women to achieve their maximum potential,” Minerva Scholarship Committee chair Mary Kolar said. Now in its 35th year, The fund has dispersed over $600,000 to more than 230 local women in its 35 years.

Peninsula School District para-educator Wendy Holt is among the women benefitting from the scholarship. She expects to complete a master of science degree this spring and become a teacher.

“Your generosity has played a pivotal role in my educational journey… without Minerva’s belief in my ability and support, I would not be where I am today,” Holt said.