This scholarship has been established to honor Col. Kathleen Swacina, USA (Ret.), and her accomplishments throughout her career and her affiliation with AFCEA. The Col. Kathleen Swacina Scholarship is funded by the generous donation provided by Col. Kathleen Swacina and Lt. Col. Daniel Swacina, USA (Ret.).
Scholarship Details
- $2,000 scholarship awarded to one student annually
- Applies to full-time undergraduate or graduate studies at accredited four-year institutions
- Community college students may apply if continuing to a four-year institution
- Supports students majoring in STEM fields aligned with AFCEA’s mission
- Encourages applicants who have overcome adversity or demonstrated resilience
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident
- Must be one of the following:
- Member of the U.S. armed forces
- Enrolled in an ROTC program
- Honorably discharged U.S. military veteran
- Direct descendant of an AFCEA member or honorably discharged service member
- Must be enrolled full-time at an accredited institution (including community colleges)
- Undergraduate students must be sophomores or juniors; graduate students must have completed at least two courses
- Must maintain a minimum 2.8 GPA
- Must be majoring in a STEM field in alignment with AFCEA’s mission
Application Process
- Access and complete the online application form, including short-answer questions about educational goals, financial need, and personal challenges
- Submit an official college transcript including Fall grades
- Provide two letters of recommendation (one must be from a professor in the applicant’s STEM field)
- Include a statement verifying affiliation with the U.S. armed forces or AFCEA
- Ensure all application materials are submitted by the published annual deadline
This scholarship was inspired by a desire to honor Col. Swacina's accomplishments, to support the AFCEA community and to help students who demonstrate resilience and determination when faced with adversity.
