In May 2023, OWIG launched a new program to help enhance our efforts to support improving the diversity of women in and around government in Ohio. A product of OWIG's 2021 Strategic Planning Process, our new Scholarship Program will provide stipends for female college students interning at the Ohio Statehouse. Because the part-time internships offered at the Ohio House and Ohio Senate are typically unpaid, financially disadvantaged students often miss out on the opportunity to gain exposure to state government and the career opportunities internships offer. OWIG's scholarships are intended to help offset the costs associated with a Columbus-based internship, opening doors for women who would otherwise lack access to opportunities in public service.
For the first program round in July 2023, OWIG solicited applicants from Kent State University and used reserve funds to award one $1,000 scholarship to Ciara Wallace, who secured a fall internship with the Ohio Legislative Black Caucus. For our first official year of the program in 2024, OWIG will be able to increase the award amount to $1,500 and quadruple the number of scholarships offered due to the successful inaugural Annual Scholarship Program Fundraiser we hosted on September 27, 2023. With the generous support of sponsors, members and guests, we raised $7,850 at this event to support Spring 2024 and Fall 2024 application rounds. We look forward to seeing the real impact this funding will offer young women next year.
OWIG Scholarship Program applicants are selected for awards based on their demonstration of need, the quality of their written submission, and whether they identify as a racial/ethnic minority and are a first-generation college student. In addition to funding, OWIG will offer all recipients a complimentary year of OWIG membership, which includes access to our Connect mentoring program, discounted tickets to all our luncheon seminars, and entry to our Annual Meeting.