ATHENA Scholarship Fund opens 2026 applications for young women leaders

Image of the three 2025 ATHENA Scholarship Fund recipientsUniversity of Windsor undergraduate students Kaitlin Ferraro, Linda Nguyen and alumna Gihan (Gigi) Joseph (LLD ’25) were named recipients of the 2025 ATHENA Scholarship Fund. The scholarships support students who promote leadership opportunities for women. (PAC/University of Windsor)

Applications are now open for the 2026 ATHENA Scholarship Program, which will award four $5,000 scholarships to students who demonstrate academic excellence, community involvement and leadership that advances opportunities for women. 

The ATHENA Scholarship Fund (Windsor) applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old as of Jan. 1, and enrolled full time in a college or university.  

Eligible candidates must also have lived in Windsor-Essex for at least 16 months by March 31. 

The program is aimed at students who have shown a commitment to mentoring, role modelling and leadership that helps women reach their full potential. 

One scholarship will be awarded to a St. Clair College student, one to a University of Windsor student, one to a University of Windsor faculty of law student and one to a student attending any college or university, provided they meet the local residency requirement. 

The application deadline is March 31, at 4 p.m. 

Founded in Windsor in 1999, the ATHENA Scholarship Program is rooted in a belief that emphasizes the cultivation of leadership, integrity and community engagement. The program seeks to recognize individuals whose leadership contributes to stronger communities and expanded opportunities for women. 

Recipients are expected to demonstrate an interest in mentoring, team building, diversity and improving quality of life in their communities. 

The ATHENA Scholarship Fund (Windsor) became a registered charity in 2004/05 and is a member of the Greater Windsor Community Foundation. The program is supported through donations from private citizens, corporations, professional organizations, academic institutions and community groups. 

Additional information and applications can be found here.  

 

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