Scholarship Description
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 $1,000 US EE Savings Bond or Canada Savings Bond purchased for the equivalent issue price.
This award is open to any female student in grades 5 – 8, who is a resident of the United States, US Territories, or Canada, and is enrolled full time in public, private, or home school. NSTA employees, NSTA Board and Council members, award judges and their immediate families are not eligible to apply. Applicants must provide: Letter of nomination from teacher, parent, school administrator, or community leader; An essay written by the student about her interest and involvement in science (up to 500 words); Student is encouraged to include in essay future aspirations in science; Two letters of support from individuals who can give evidence of how the student meets the specific criteria for this award. Letters must not exceed two pages each, and must accompany packet; and Up to two pages of support materials are required; e.g. photographs, news articles, science projects, etc.
