IAS launches Sandra Martin Roberts Memorial Scholarship

The Sandra Martin Roberts Memorial Scholarship is the first scholarship that is specifically designated for students enrolled in the School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences (IAS). A generous donor created the award in memory and recognition of her sister Sandra Martin Roberts.

Sandra was a joyful, wise, strong, generous person who did not have the opportunity to attend college earlier in her life, despite her aptitude and passion for learning. She grew up in poverty and found herself making many sacrifices to help her family survive, including giving up a full scholarship to college. She went on to become a proud mother of three, and right when she decided it was time to return to school to pursue higher education in order to become a teacher, she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her dream to return to school is being passed on to someone who, like Sandra, possesses the drive and desire to learn and become credentialed despite challenging circumstances.

The purpose of the scholarship is to help a nontraditional student in financial need who is pursuing an IAS degree and has a specific interest in improving the lives of women.

Any full-time student who has been admitted to or is currently enrolled in IAS can apply. Preference will be given to nontraditional students who have completed lower-division studies at UW Bothell or will transfer from a Washington state community college. In addition to having achieved a strong academic record, candidates shall have an interest in improving the lives of women. Financial need will be given strong consideration.

The Scholarship Review Committee will choose the recipient Sandra Martin Roberts inaugural recipient as part of the autumn scholarship rounds. Students submit a general application and resume by the Nov. 27 deadline, with results announced about 4 weeks later. The Sandra Martin Roberts Scholarship will be an annual award for the foreseeable future.

Anyone who would like to contribute to the fund is asked to contact Victoria Sprang, Associate Director for Advancement, School of Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences at vsprang@uw.edu .