Established in honor of Dr. Gerry Wheeler, for his outstanding dedication to NSTA and lifelong commitment to science education and towards encouraging girls to consider careers in STEM. The award recognizes one female student in grades 5-8 who has shown excellence of involvement and/or has strong connections to science; evidence of sustained accomplishments or progress/interest in science; and evidence that the student’s interest in science has impacted others. This award consists of a $500 US EE Savings Bond or Canada Savings Bond purchased for the equivalent issue price.
Scholarship Details
- Established in honor of Dr. Gerry Wheeler
- $500 US EE Savings Bond or equivalent
- Recognizes excellence and impact in science
Eligibility Criteria
- Female students in grades 5-8
- Residents of the United States, US Territories, or Canada
- Enrolled full-time in public, private, or home school
- Excludes NSTA employees, Board and Council members, award judges, and their immediate families
Application Process
- Submit a nomination letter from a teacher, parent, school administrator, or community leader
- Write a 500-word essay about interest and involvement in science, including future aspirations
- Include two letters of support from individuals familiar with the student's achievements
- Submit up to two pages of supporting materials (e.g., photographs, news articles, science projects)
Please be sure to read all qualifications carefully to be sure you are eligible. Entries that do not follow the stated rules for
submission are disqualified, regardless of the merit or innovation of the entry. Make sure you and a colleague review the
checklist below before sending in your application so you can ensure that your efforts will not be disqualified. Ensure
that your application communicates the information you intend. Don’t forget to check for correct spelling and accurate
word counts.
