" I have spent lots of time with nurses that I admired, and I knew that I wanted to be one too. I have always known I wanted to be a nurse, but that doesn’t mean achieving that goal was easy. I got into nursing school at Dixie State University and was thrilled to start when I found myself needing a surgery related to my birth defect—which drastically affected my financial ability to start nursing school. Shortly after, I found the inspiring AAUW organization and applied for the scholarship. I felt honored to be chosen as a recipient, along with many other deserving women in the community. AAUW made it possible for me to complete my nursing degree financially but also gave me an incredible mentor who was once a nurse herself. She showed me nothing but constant support and I’m grateful for all she and the strong women within the organization did for me and my nursing education. I wouldn’t have made it to where I am now as a Registered Nurse without the role they played in my journey."

Jamie Smith

" I plan to use my degrees [in Applied Sociology and American Sign Language Interpreting] to work as a Professional ASL Interpreter for the Deaf community by assisting them with communication in healthcare, court services, and education. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to go to college at DSU because it makes it possible to accomplish my dreams. My favorite part about DSU has been the people I’ve met. I’ve formed great relationships with professors, advisors, fellow students and, of course, the mentors from AAUW who I can grow with and learn from. The AAUW has helped me so much during my time at DSU. My mentor at AAUW has guided me and supported me when my classes got tough and I wanted to quit. I’m so grateful for the AAUW for helping me stay in college. The AAUW provides many opportunities for me to succeed such as free online classes, educational events, and scholarships. These opportunities have helped me improve academically, professionally, and overall into a happier, more successful individual. Attending DSU wouldn’t be possible for me if it weren’t for the amazing support from the AAUW!"

Veronica Gonzales

" AAUW recognized my potential as a woman pursuing career training after first raising a military family. They saw how I have become a leader among my academic peers and then enabled me, through their generous scholarship, to stay focused on achieving my goal of becoming a registered dental hygienist. AAUW's support has connected me with our community of highly capable women building each other up and meeting the needs of the public."

Sarah Graham

" AAUW has enabled me to use my leadership skills to help women in very concrete ways. Our work helps women in so many ways. Our scholarships help students complete their education so that they will continue to earn a solid income throughout their career. That will make a difference in their lives and the lives of the next generation."

Nan Bujold

" When male colleagues ask me why I choose to be a member of AAUW my answer is simple. Throughout my personal life, my academic career, and my professional career, several strong women have played pivotal roles in making me who I am today. Through my own experience, I am convinced that we are all better off with more strong and empowered women."

Kevin Rorie

" As a working mom, I have limited time for volunteering. I love AAUW because I think they make my time count — my work directly improves the lives of women and girls. Also, I have made so many friends in this group of amazing women!"

G.P. Gates