Gerald W. McEntee Scholarship

Geographic Scope: Available to AFSCME members nationally

Scholarship created to honor the legacy of AFSCME's third president, Gerald W. McEntee. The award recognizes and supports members who are committed to union activism and public service.

Purpose

Helps members pursue educational goals while demonstrating commitment to:

• Strengthening the union through organizing
• Building political power
• Defending workers' rights
• Supporting public services
• Following Gerald W. McEntee's legacy of union leadership

Eligibility

• AFSCME union members
• Must demonstrate commitment to union activism and values
• Must be pursuing educational advancement
• Essay component required (applicants describe union activism and commitment)

Selection Criteria

Applicants should demonstrate:

• Active involvement in union activities
• Commitment to workers' rights advocacy
• Community service and engagement
• Educational aspirations and progress
• Connection to AFSCME values and mission

Example Winner

Katrice Sawyer (2019 Winner)

• Position: Legal Secretary, Will County State's Attorney's Office, Joliet, Illinois
• Union: AFSCME Local 1028
• Education: Pursuing dual master's degree in public administration and political and justice studies (Governors State University)
• GPA: 3.89
• Union Activities: Participated in 2013 strike for insurance agreement; actively recruits AFSCME members; union steward
• Community Service: Volunteer case worker with Guardian Angel Community Services supporting domestic violence survivors
• Future Goals: Work in New Orleans or Springfield, Illinois using policy expertise

Contact Information:

• AFSCME Council 28 (WFSE)
• 1212 Jefferson Street
• Olympia, WA 98501
• Phone: 1-833-MCC-WFSE (833-622-9373)

Application Process

1. Gather Materials
   • Prepare application materials (specific requirements not fully detailed in source)
   • Write scholarship essay describing:
   • Your union activism and involvement
   • Commitment to workers' rights
   • How you strengthen the union through organizing
   • Your role in building political power
   • Community service contributions
   • Educational goals and progress
2. Submit Application
   • Submit through official AFSCME or WFSE channels
   • Include all required materials and essay
3. Review and Selection
   • Applications reviewed by selection committee
   • Winners announced annually
   • Award distributed to selected recipient(s)

Required Materials

• Completed application form
• Scholarship essay (demonstrating union commitment and activism)
• Evidence of AFSCME membership
• Educational enrollment verification or transcript
• References or supporting documents (estimated)