Since its founding in 1965, members of the Women’s Society of Washington University (WSWU) have worked to build bridges between the university and the larger St. Louis community. WSWU’s more than 500 members include corporate and non-profit executives, physicians, attorneys, educators, entrepreneurs and community volunteers. Membership in WSWU is open to all and has proven to be an effective way for alumni, parents, and St. Louis community friends to stay connected to and participate in the life of the university.
Each year, WSWU provides full-tuition scholarships to matriculating St. Louis Community College students who are eligible to complete a Bachelor’s degree at Washington University. To date, 57 scholarships have been awarded totaling nearly $4 million. Through the years these scholarships have had a profound impact on the lives of their recipients.
Delanie Osborne is our scholarship recipient; she plans to pursue a fine arts degree, with a concentration in painting, at the Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts. In the attached photo, she is with Carol Armstrong, committee chair, and Angie Bernardi, president.
Being a recipient of the Elizabeth Gray Danforth Scholarship has truly been a transformative experience for me. Thanks to this generous scholarship, I was able to pursue my studies in Communication Design and nurture my passion for illustration without the burden of student loans. This support allowed me to focus entirely on my academic and creative development. I had the privilege of learning from talented and thoughtful professors who inspired and guided me throughout my journey. Moreover, the connections I made and the experiences I gained at the Sam Fox School have been invaluable.
My relationship with Washington University and Washington University Women’s Society has gone full circle. In 1989 my life changed forever when I became the 12th recipient of the Elizabeth Gray Danforth Scholarship. After receiving my B.A. in Elementary Education in 1991, I began a career as an elementary school teacher. I earned my M.A. in Education from Washington University in 1997. I have been a member of WSWU for many years and have served on different committees. I retired from teaching after 25 years, but continue on the learning journey I started at Washington University years ago.
WSWU provides project grants to on-campus student organizations to fund projects that represent those organization’s missions.
WSWU recognizes the achievements of graduating senior women who have made significant contributions to the university community through the Harriet K. Switzer Achievement Award.
WSWU offers a variety of lectures on interesting and timely topics that highlight excellence in scholarship at the university to members and their guests.
Umrath House, South 40
6618 Shepley Drive
St. Louis, MO 63105
314-935-5071
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