SCHOLARSHIPS

Scholarship Opportunities Specifically Designed for Adult Students


Following our philanthropic community focus, EWI awards scholarships for adult students returning to school, providing a catalyst for their educational growth. Over the years, our Columbus chapter has given more than $115,000 in scholarships to almost 60 central Ohio adult students.



Current Application

The 2021 scholarship window is now closed. Please check back early 2022 for next year's application.

Any questions in the application process may be directed to Scholarship Director Joan Orndorff at jorndorff@castoinfo.com or 614.984.0090.

A big CONGRATULATIONS to our 2020 scholarship winners!
  • Jayda Jackson - $3,000 ASIST Scholarship
  • Kareen Lane - $2,500 Cindy Ansted Scholarship
  • Megan Connell-Cox - $2,500 Cindy Ansted Scholarship 


Scholarship Programs

EWI of Columbus offers two scholarship programs available to non-traditional students living in central Ohio.
  1. The Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) scholarship
  2. The Cindy Ansted Scholarship Fund (made possible by a generous donation from Battelle.

One application - two chances for funding. 


1. Adult Students in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) Program
From its early beginnings, EWI® has always been committed to promoting community involvement and professional development among its members. In 1974, EWI® participated in a community project to encourage the development of careers in business among high school students. Enthusiastically embraced by chapters throughout the organization, the program quickly grew and developed into what is now known as the Business/Career/Development Program. Today, B/C/DP is a renowned nonprofit organization offering scholastic assistance.

The Adult Students in Scholastic Transition Program (ASIST) provides financial support to central Ohio adult students at transitional points in their lives. Applicants may be single parents, individuals just entering the workforce or displaced workers who live within a chapter's geographical boundaries. To be eligible for the program, candidates must be able to define their career goals and objectives and meet the necessary educational and financial requirements.

Scholarships are awarded per Internal Revenue Service Guidelines. Verification of enrollment is required before payment will be made by EWI®. Awards are paid directly to a higher education institution.

2. The Cindy Ansted Scholarship Fund
EWI of Columbus, one of the premier organizations for women in business, is please to announce it has been awarded a $25,000 donation from Battelle to establish the Cindy Ansted Scholarship Fund. This scholarship fund honors EWI representative and retired Battelle employee Cindy Ansted. Recipients will meet the qualifications exhibited by Cindy in her 35-year career at Battelle, including demonstrating her leadership skills, dedication, strong work ethic and a willingness to help others. 

The Cindy Ansted Scholarship Fund serves as a compliment to the existing Adult Student in Scholastic Transition (ASIST) scholarship program provided by EWI annually for which Cindy has worked tirelessly to support. Winners will be determined through the same ASIST scholarship application process and timeline. 



Eligibility Requirements

Selection criteria may include the following:
  • Financial need
  • Socially, physically and economically challenged adults
  • Preference is given to those individuals with children residing in the home
Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
  • Clearly define career goals and objectives
  • Specify the educational requirements to attain the above goals and objectives
  • Utilize re-entry programs available through colleges/universities/ technology centers, community agencies and service groups or career professionals
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Applicant must reside within boundaries of a participating EWI Chapter – refer to list on ewiconnect.com

Scholarship Boundaries

EWI of Columbus awards scholarships to eligible individuals who are permanent residents in either Franklin County, Ohio, or one of the six contiguous counties (Licking, Fairfield, Union, Pickaway, Madison and Delaware) that define our Chapter boundaries. See the map below if you are unsure if you qualify.