Zonta Women in STEM Award

Geographic Scope: Milwaukee, Waukesha, Washington, Ozaukee, Racine, or Kenosha counties

Target Population: Women aged 18-35 at time of application

Focus Areas:

• Groundbreaking research
• Pioneering discoveries
• Exemplary contributions to advancing knowledge and innovation in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics)

Eligible Fields:

• Science, technology, engineering, or mathematics fields of study or industry
• Fields must align with U.S. Department of Homeland Security's Designated Degree Program List

Award Structure:

• Zonta Club of Milwaukee awards one $2,000 scholarship
• Winner's application forwarded to Zonta District 6
• District 6 selects one application for submission to Zonta International for consideration of a $10,000 award

Eligibility Requirements:

• Ages 18-35 at time of application
• Demonstrate groundbreaking research, pioneering discoveries, or exemplary contributions in STEM
• Currently employed (if applicable), enrolled as full-time student (if applicable), or have legal residency in eligible counties
• Field of study must be on the DHS STEM list

Fund Usage:

• No restrictions on use of funds
• If studying at secondary school, university, or college, funds can be used for tuition and/or living expenses
• Recipients not permitted to defer the award
• Recipients may accept additional grants and awards from other sources

Application Process

1. Download the official application from Zonta International website (www.zonta.org) or Zonta Club of Milwaukee
2. Complete the official application including essay
3. Obtain verification of current enrollment or employment
4. Secure two recommendations from adults
5. Submit completed application on or before October 15 (typed applications only)

Required Materials:

• Completed official application form (TYPED only - handwritten applications not accepted)
• Essay
• Verification of current enrollment by school/institute official (if applicable)
• Letter from employer verifying employment (if applicable) - must be on letterhead with signature stating date of hire and job title
• Two recommendations from adults not related to applicant (e.g., teachers, school officials, employee supervisors)

Submission Format:

• Typed applications only
• PDF application
• Recommendations must be sent directly to Zonta club or district, not through applicant
• If school stamp is embossed on Enrollment Verification Form, lightly shade it with pencil prior to electronic submission

Note: Award shown as 2026 due to timing of final awards given by Zonta International; Milwaukee STEM Award given in November