MSW Scholarships - College of Social Work

American Indian Endowed Scholarship for Social Work Education

These scholarships were established in 1970 to support students of American Indian and Alaska Native ethnicity. These social work scholarships are made possible through a number of funding sources, including the University of Utah President’s Office; Tribal Nations and Councils; practicum agencies; the Indian Health Service; Bureau of Indian Affairs; and the Children’s Bureau of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. These scholarships were established in 1970 to support students of American Indian and Alaska Native ethnicity. These social work scholarships are made possible through a number of funding sources, including the University of Utah President’s Office; Tribal Nations and Councils; practicum agencies; the Indian Health Service; Bureau of Indian Affairs; and the Children’s Bureau of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Blanche Scowcroft-Willey Endowed Scholarship

This endowed scholarship was established in 1983 by Emerson C. Willey in honor of his wife, Blanche Scowcroft Willey. The scholarship is granted to deserving students who excel academically in the social work field.

Bordenave Memorial Endowed Scholarship

This scholarship was established by Jeannine Bordenave, a 1981 MSW graduate, in memory of her mother, Lucille Bordenave. The award is made to a deserving student who has excelled academically, who is in need of financial assistance, and who meets the University’s definition of a nontraditional student.

Burt Annin Child Welfare Scholarship

Dr. Norma Harris created this annual scholarship in 2016 and began endowing it in 2018 in memory of her friend Burt Annin, an attorney and trainer at the Child Welfare League of America. This scholarship is intended to support BSW and MSW students interested in pursuing a career in child welfare social work. Strong preference is given to Title IV-E students.

BW Bastian Student Scholarship for Whole Community Care

This scholarship supports students focused on working with, but not limited to, LGBTQ+ clients and communities. The BW Bastian Foundation has supported the College of Social Work since 2008.

Chieko Nishimura Okazaki Endowed Scholarship for Elementary School-based Social Work

The Okazaki family established the Chieko Nishimura Okazaki Endowed Scholarship at the College of Social Work in 2021. In honor of Chieko’s passion for school social work, the scholarship supports MSW students accepted to the College’s school-based social work program who intend to work in elementary school settings.

Chris Wellington and Beryl Peters Mental Health Scholarship

In 2017, Chris Wellington created a scholarship for BSW and MSW students who intend to work with those with mental health challenges. Ms. Wellington also chose to honor her long-time friend Beryl Peters, who supported the idea of this scholarship and whose estate gift helped make it possible.

Colin W. Brown Endowed Scholarship in Honor of Hank Liese

In 1964, Colin Brown and Hank Liese were 15-year-old plebes together at Culver Military Academy. A few decades later, upon Dean Liese’s retirement from the College of Social Work in 2017, Mr. Brown established this scholarship in his dear friend’s honor. It is a tribute to their friendship and their shared love of education. Dean Liese hopes it will provide support for social work students returning to school after careers in other fields, as he once did. This scholarship is awarded to full-time students studying within the College of Social Work who are in good academic standing and have financial need. Preference is given to students whose interest in social work represents a career change.

College of Social Work Alumni Scholarship

In 1982, alumni of the College of Social Work established a 50th Anniversary Endowment to fund an ongoing scholarship in the name of the Alumni Association. The scholarship is awarded to a College of Social Work student who demonstrates leadership, contribution to the community, and commitment to the social work profession.

College of Social Work Scholarship

Each year, the College of Social Work receives contributions designated for our general scholarship fund. Established in 2005, this scholarship is awarded to College of Social Work students who demonstrate leadership, make contributions to the community, and commitment to the social work profession. The collective support of the alumni and friends who donate to this scholarship allows us to provide meaningful support to social work students at all levels.

College of Social Work Study of Aging Scholarship

Allen Proctor, a clinical instructor in the College of Social Work’s practicum program for more than 25 years, was instrumental in establishing this scholarship through a distribution of assets from Salt Lake Metropolitan Services for the Aging. The scholarship is awarded to outstanding students who have demonstrated commitment, capacity, and promise for a career in gerontology and direct service or field placement in aging.

Community Advisory Board Scholarship

The College of Social Work’s Community Advisory Board (CAB) initiated this annual scholarship in 2014, which is funded by contributions from current and former board members. This scholarship supports Bachelor of Social Work students in the College of Social Work and may occasionally be awarded to graduate students, at the discretion of the Community Advisory Board. A sub-committee of CAB members are involved in the scholarship selection process; recipients may be invited to a board meeting with CAB members.

Don and Sylvia Schmid American Indian Child Welfare Leadership Endowed Scholarship

This scholarship was established by Don and Sylvia Schmid in 2003. These funds are designated for an MSW student who plans to work in a child welfare setting, primarily serving Tribal Nations, both on reservations and in urban areas. Preference is given to students with financial need.

Dr. Holly Grayson Endowed Scholarship

Candidates for this scholarship must be pursuing a degree in the College of Social Work and must demonstrate financial need. Although both graduate and undergraduate students may receive the scholarship, preference may be given to Master of Social Work students. This scholarship was established in 2024 by Dr. Holly Grayson.

Dr. Judy Watts Brady MSW Student Scholarship

Drew W. Browning created this scholarship in 2023 in honor of his late wife. Dr. Judy Watts Brady excelled in her lifelong mission of helping people. Whether she was working in private practice or serving in the many public mental health roles she had during her lifetime—including as the director of the Utah State Division of Alcoholism and Drugs, a governor-appointed position for which she was notably the first woman to hold the post. This scholarship is awarded to an MSW student who has demonstrated financial need.

E. Daniel & Margie Egbert Edwards American Indian Scholarship

In their decades of work at the College of Social Work, Dan and Marge Edwards dramatically improved educational opportunities for American Indians in Utah and across the country. This endowed scholarship for American Indian single parents ensures the continuation of their remarkable legacy. Recipients must be members of an American Indian Tribe recognized by the United States Government, with preference given to those with financial need. Preference is given to MSW students, but BSW students are also considered.

Edward Yukio Okazaki Memorial Scholarship

Family and friends established the Edward Yukio Okazaki award fund in 1994, in Edward's memory. Over time this endowment has grown to support a scholarship as well. It is given to a student who demonstrates achievement and promise in gerontology.

Elise Kasteler Hutchings Scholarship for Leadership in the National Association of Social Workers

This scholarship was established by College of Social Work alumna and NASW advocate, Elise Kasteler Hutchings in 2011. It recognizes an outstanding social work student who has demonstrated knowledge of the value of NASW and dedication to helping support its mission in this state. The recipient must be a member of NASW.

Elizabeth McDonald-Richards Scholarship

This endowed scholarship was established in 1998 by CSW Professor Emeritus Helen R. Henderson in memory of her mother, Elizabeth McDonald Richards. The scholarship is given to a master’s-level social work student who is a single parent caring for children and who would not be able to attend graduate school without financial assistance. Special consideration is given to students who exemplify the values and qualities of Elizabeth McDonald Richards, specifically the value she placed on education and concern for others.

Eva V. Hancock Endowed Scholarship

Established in 2007 by a legacy gift from Eva V. Hancock, this scholarship supports undergraduate or graduate students interested in community leadership. Ms. Hancock earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Utah and the University of California at Berkeley. She lived her commitment to community service through her distinguished career, numerous volunteer activities, and as a charter member of the National Association of Social Workers.

Francis A. Jones Endowed Scholarship

A gift from the estate of Frances A. Jones established this endowed scholarship in 1991. It supports students interested in the problems of rural communities, with an emphasis on child welfare services. The scholarship will be awarded to deserving social work students who have excelled academically and who have financial need.

George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation Neighbors Helping Neighbors Scholars and Aging Scholarship

This scholarship, made possible by the George S. and Dolores Doré Eccles Foundation, is awarded to MSW students who intend to work in a practicum placement with the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Scholars and Aging Program or another setting with aging populations.

Georgia W. Murdaugh Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 1988 by Claude B. Murdaugh of Washington state in memory of his wife, Georgia W. Murdaugh. This scholarship is given to students who demonstrate financial need and who wish to pursue advanced graduate education in the public social services.

Georgia Willey Snyder Memorial Scholarship

Georgia Snyder Knight established this endowed scholarship in 1997 in memory of her mother, Georgia Willey Snyder, professor emeritus at the College of Social Work. Professor Snyder was a member of the faculty for 28 years, beginning in 1953. This scholarship is awarded to students with demonstrated need, who display outstanding promise, interest, and academic excellence in the field of social work.

Gilbert Teemley-Smith Scholarship

Dr. Amanda Barusch established this scholarship in honor of her father, Gilbert Teemley Smith. The award supports first-generation College of Social Work graduate and undergraduate students, particularly those with a strong commitment to serving the Mexican American community.

Gisella and Dan Chace Scholarship

College of Social Work alumna and social justice advocate Gisella Chace, along with her husband Dan, have contributed to annual scholarships for social work students since 2014, and officially established the Gisella and Dan Chace Scholarship in 2020. They focus on supporting first-generation students with demonstrated financial need.

Helen Richards Henderson Scholarship

This endowed scholarship was established in 1998 by Ann E. Henderson to honor her mother, College of Social Work Professor Emeritus Helen R. Henderson. The scholarship is awarded to a master’s-level social work student who is a single parent and who demonstrates promise in the field of social work. Special consideration is given to students who share Helen Henderson’s interest in mental health and professional development.

Helen Tsai Scholarship

Elizabeth Tsai made a scholarship contribution in January 2015 in honor of her sister, Helen. Elizabeth explained Helen received scholarships in support of her education that enabled her to find a good job and support Elizabeth in her own quest for a degree. Elizabeth was proud to recognize and thank her sister by supporting future social workers that year, and has continued to provide scholarship support each year since. This scholarship is awarded to College of Social Work students who demonstrate leadership, make contributions to the community, and commitment to the social work profession.

Himonas Impact Scholarship

Lisa and Deno Himonas created this newly endowed scholarship in 2024 to support students who are inspired to make an impact in the community. Candidates for this scholarship must be pursuing a BSW or MSW at the University of Utah, and preference may be given (but is not required) to candidates who demonstrate financial need. Recipients should have expressed an interest in making a difference (having an impact) in their area of specialization or interest or with a particular community (mental health, substance use, suicide prevention, LGBTQ+, Hispanic, etc.).

James C. & Lucile P. Hunter Endowed Scholarship

College of Social Work students interested in international, immigrant, and refugee issues are considered for this scholarship, which was endowed by Paul and Rosemarie Hunter in memory of James C. and Lucile P. Hunter. James and Lucile both had a high regard for education, Lucille teaching school all of her life and James reentering college after his retirement as a highway patrolman for the State of Utah. College of Social Work BSW, MSW, or PhD students with an interest in one or more of the previously mentioned areas and who demonstrate need are encouraged to apply.

Jane and Ernest Bebb Family Scholarship for Promise in Social Work

Jane Bebb, alumna of the College’s Master of Social Work Program, established this endowed scholarship in her family’s name in 2020. Jane is grateful to be able to provide scholarship support to students in the MSW Program who have demonstrated promise in the field of social work and are committed to this important profession.

Julia M. Watkins Endowed Scholarship

Following two years of generously supporting annual scholarships for social work students, College of Social Work alumna Dr. Julia Watkins, along with her husband Dr. Dennis A. Watkins, established this endowed scholarship in 2021 with a gift from the Dennis A. and Julia M. Watkins Foundation. The Julia M. Watkins Endowed Scholarship supports deserving students in the BSW, MSW, or PhD programs who have demonstrated financial need.

Lee Spencer Skidmore Endowed Scholarship

The family and friends of Lee Spencer Skidmore established this honor in his memory in 2016. The scholarship supports MSW students with demonstrated financial need who seek a career in medical healthcare.

Louise Browning Endowed Scholarship

Louise Browning was a respected faculty member and inspirational mentor at the College of Social Work for many years. She was also a beloved and respected aunt to Robert Browning Andersen, who established this endowed scholarship in 2005 in her honor. The Browning Scholarship provides support to a deserving student in the College of Social Work who demonstrates financial need.

Martin Hiatt Endowed Scholarship

In 1993, a bequest from the estate of Martin Hiatt established a scholarship fund at the University of Utah, and a portion of these funds were directed to the College of Social Work. There are no specific criteria attached to the scholarship, although recipients are traditionally students who excel academically.

Mary Alice and Bennett Brown Foundation Scholarship

The Mary Alice and Bennett Brown Foundation in Atlanta, Georgia, supports underserved youth, with an emphasis on education. Leila Brown says her parents established this legacy foundation because they felt, “We have been blessed so that we may be a blessing to others.” This scholarship, established in 2022, supports undergraduate and/or graduate social work students with an emphasis in whole community care.

Maurice and Inez Warshaw Scholarship

The late Maurice Warshaw, noted Salt Lake philanthropist and civic leader, established this scholarship through an endowment in his will. The Warshaw Scholarship is awarded annually to social work students based on merit and need. Founder and chairman of the board of Grand Central Stores, Mr. Warshaw focused much of his philanthropy and community service on disability rights and issues. The Warshaw Scholarship was expanded by the family and friends following the death of Inez Warshaw in 1998.

Milton G Thackeray Memorial Scholarship

The family and friends of Milton G. Thackeray established this endowed scholarship in 1996 to honor his years of dedication to the College of Social Work. Professor Thackeray began his career at the College in 1948. He served the school for 37 years, retiring in 1985. Fourteen of these years were spent in the position of associate dean. This scholarship is awarded to students who bring to the profession of social work the values and qualities Milton G. Thackeray exemplified throughout his life and career. Consideration is also given to students preparing for careers in child welfare and/or mental health.

Patricia Rothermich Endowed Memorial Scholarship

Patricia Rothermich was known for her empathy, her understanding, and her compassion for her clients. Ms. Rothermich’s friends and family established this Memorial Scholarship in 2008 to honor her lifelong dedication to serving children and families. The scholarship is given to a BSW or MSW student who shares those interests.

Patricia Van Voorhis Women's Risk Needs Assessment Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 2023 by College of Social Work faculty member Dr. Emily Sailsbury in honor of her mentor, Dr. Patricia Van Voorhis. It is intended to support MSW students in the forensic sequence who have been directly impacted by the criminal justice system. Scholarship candidates must be social work students who have been personally impacted by the justice system (e.g. a parent, spouse, etc. in the justice system) and interested in working in the area of criminal justice/forensic social work.

Pro Vita Bona et Longa Scholarship

Endowed in 2024, this scholarship is given to social work students who plan to work with older adults pro vita bona et longa (“for a good and long life”), and/or are committed to pursuing a career in gerontological in social work.

Rex A. Skidmore Endowed Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 1996 at the time of the 25th anniversary of the College of Social Work building. It honors Rex A. Skidmore, who served the University and the College of Social Work for 41 years. Dr. Skidmore was dean for 20 years, from 1956 to 1975. The scholarship is presented to exceptional students who have demonstrated outstanding promise, interest, and academic excellence in the field of social work and who, like Rex A. Skidmore, would bring to the profession a strong commitment to strengthening, preserving, and enhancing family life and family relationships.

Robin Arnold-Williams Public Policy Endowed Scholarship

John D. Williams initiated this endowed scholarship in 2018 in honor of his late wife, esteemed College of Social Work alumna Robin Arnold-Williams. Family and friends quickly added their own generous contributions to this honor in tribute to Robin’s lifetime commitment to public service. John and a cadre of donors hope this scholarship encourages others to follow in Robin’s inspiring footsteps. The scholarship will be awarded to graduate students who are interested in a career in public policy and who are pursuing an MSW or PhD.

Roger M. & Mary F. Lowe Legacy Scholarship

In 2001, Roger M. and Mary F. Lowe established this scholarship to provide educational assistance to deserving students studying in the field of social work. As a result of their generous support over the years, this endowment now provides scholarships for multiple students annually. Ms. Lowe is a 1987 graduate of the College of Social Work and a recipient of the James Garland Woolsey Memorial Award.

Ruth Papiano-Giolman Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 1999 by Neil L. Papiano in memory of his mother, Ruth Cotten Papiano Giolman. The scholarship is awarded to graduate students whose professional interests are in the field of aging and who expect, upon graduation, to engage in research and other activities to improve the quality of life for older adults.

Sarah Jane and Jeffrey D. Dunn Endowed Scholarship

Sarah Jane and Jeff Dunn established this scholarship in December of 2015. This endowed scholarship supports full-time MSW students with demonstrated financial need. As graduates of a combined total of four University of Utah programs, Sarah Jane (MSW’99) and Jeff enthusiastically and generously chose to support students who would follow their academic footsteps.

Sharon Goodwill Memorial Scholarship

Established in 1994 by Wilford and Dorothy Goodwill in memory of their daughter, this endowed scholarship is awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding promise, interest, and academic excellence in the field of mental health. Sharon earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Utah, followed by a master’s degree and PhD in psychology from Utah State University.

Suazo Social Justice Scholarship

This scholarship was established to honor the late Senator Pete Suazo. Senator Suazo dedicated his life to furthering the cause of social and economic justice for all people. The College of Social Work and the Suazo family are proud to provide this scholarship to a full-time student who has financial need and who demonstrates a strong commitment to and leadership potential in issues of social and economic justice.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints Foundation Neighbors Helping Neighbors Scholars and Aging Scholarship

This scholarship, made possible by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Foundation, is awarded to MSW students who intend to participate in the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Scholars and Aging Program, with an emphasis on helping aging populations.

The Mildred Gutke, Edward Lorenzo, Merrill Gutke, and Larry Lorenzo Smith Family Scholarship in the College of Social Work

This scholarship was established by Larry Lorenzo Smith in 2024 to honor his late parents, Mildred and Edward, and younger brother, Merrill. Larry was a faculty member at the College of Social Work for 50 years (1971-2021). In addition to his scholarly publications and among the many leadership roles he held throughout his long tenure at the College, he served as director of the MSW Program, MSW Admissions, and the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Scholars and Aging Program. This scholarship is awarded annually to Master of Social Work students with demonstrated financial need.

The Rosemary Mildred, Wayne Edward, Merrill Gutke, and Larry Lorenzo Smith Family Scholarship in the College of Social Work

This scholarship was established by Larry Lorenzo Smith in 2024 to honor his twin sister, Rosemary, and brothers Wayne and Merrill. Larry was a faculty member at the College of Social Work for 50 years (1971-2021). In addition to his scholarly publications and among the many leadership roles he held throughout his long tenure at the College, he served as director of the MSW Program, MSW Admissions, and the Neighbors Helping Neighbors Scholars and Aging Program. This scholarship is awarded annually to Master of Social Work students with demonstrated financial need.