Woman of Wonder Scholarships

Woman of Wonder's goal is to bring more to women’s lives by providing access to higher education for women in Washington state. Valuing higher education, opportunities for leadership, and pay equity, the organization believes that continued education can stabilize families and improve the economy while boosting women into fulfilling careers. For many women, there is a gap between everyday responsibilities, finances, and the opportunity to compete for a rewarding career – hindering many from pursuing and finishing a degree. Woman of Wonder intends to bridge that gap and gives their primary focus to single moms, women raised by a single parent, or women on their own with little or no support. 

The organization was inspired by a wonderful woman, Wilma A. Doane. Wilma had no financial support to attend college, so she worked until she had funds to pay her own way. She continued working to support her husband as he attended school and they ensured that their children had college tuition. Her mission to improve women’s lives began when she refused a union that wouldn’t guarantee her pay would be equal to a man’s, for the same job! Wilma mentored many people in her career as an escrow officer, sharing her knowledge and expertise and volunteering at organizations that funded scholarships for women. Her passion is to ensure that others have fulfilling careers and continues to volunteer in her 80’s, quietly and humbly.  

Woman of Wonder is a volunteer-led organization that chooses its volunteer board based on their desire to improve women’s lives. The volunteers are located around the Pacific Northwest with varying levels of education and diverse backgrounds in business, nonprofits, human resources, marketing, government, education, and children and families. Their goal is to be effective stewards of their resources with minimal overhead costs and a commitment to the community and providing leadership. 

Scholarships are provided to women in Washington with preference, for the limited scholarships, given to those with extenuating circumstances. Woman of Wonder envisions and hopes to help create a world where women have access to higher education, are regularly offered leadership opportunities, and attain pay equity. You can apply to the scholarship on the state’s website at https://washboard.wsac.wa.gov/ 

To learn more, volunteer, or donate, visit the Woman of Wonder website at https://www.womanofwonder.org/. You can donate “in honor” or “in memory” of an outstanding woman in your life by contacting their office.