Grace Ekman Whitley Scholarship

The Grace Ekman Whitley Scholarship honors a dedicated educator who taught in schools across North Central Washington. Grace Ekman Whitley had no children of her own but loved the children in her classrooms as her own. This scholarship was established at the Community Foundation of North Central Washington to support graduating seniors from Cascade, Manson, Tonasket and Wenatchee High Schools. Each year, the scholarship committee seeks to award students who demonstrate perseverance and commitment, work ethic, strong academic improvement, and motivation, and who have overcome disadvantages. The scholarship emphasizes academic improvement and taking college prep classes, while also considering the hardships students have overcome. Applicants must have a GPA between 2.5 and 3.25, with an emphasis on academic improvement. The personal statement should focus on hardships the student has overcome and how education can improve their future. Financial need may be given consideration, but is not a major factor in determining awards.