Muskegon, MI, March 30, 2016 — Applications for the 2016 Lakeshore ATHENA Scholarship Program are now being accepted at the Lakeshore Chambers of Commerce. The scholarships, offered through the Lakeshore ATHENA Awards Program, a collaboration of The Chamber of Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Ferrysburg, Holland Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, assist women in reaching their full potential through financial support for training programs and education.

“The Lakeshore ATHENA Scholarship Program is a unique opportunity for a female student over the age of 30 who is living or working in Ottawa, Allegan or Muskegon County. Funds from this scholarship can be used for expenses beyond educational costs such as childcare, housing or transportation.” Said Rachel Stewart, Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce.

Other criteria the applicant must meet includes completion of one year of higher education, plans to continue her education at a West Michigan area accredited 4-year, 2-year or technical or vocational program, and have limited financial resources. Stewart said, “Applicants must also demonstrate a commitment to a professional, business or entrepreneurial career.”

The application deadline is May 13, 2016. Scholarship recipients will be notified in August, and checks will be awarded at the Lakeshore ATHENA Award luncheon on October 4, 2016 at Trillium Events. To date, the program has awarded scholarships totaling $30,000.

Applications for the scholarship are available on the websites of The Chamber of Commerce Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Ferrysburg, Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce, and the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce. You may also contact Rachel Stewart, Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce, (231) 722-3751, or rstewart@muskegon.org.

A copy of the application can be downloaded here.