The Women of the Western Communities (WWC) recently announced the recipients of its 2025 Scholarship Awards, continuing its mission to empower women in the western communities through educational support.
The Mary M. Rowe Memorial Rise and Shine Scholarship, established in honor of longtime WWC member Mary M. Rowe, has been awarded to Deandria Leonard. Leonard’s commitment to furthering her education while helping the underserved in our community exemplify the spirit and legacy of this award.
The Women of the Western Communities Scholarship, the organization’s flagship award recognizing outstanding potential and financial need, has been awarded to Paola Velasquez Vasquez. Her determination to pursue higher education while overcoming life’s challenges makes her a deserving and inspiring recipient.
Both women have demonstrated exceptional dedication to their educational and personal growth, aligning perfectly with the WWC’s values of empowerment, resilience and lifelong learning.
“These scholarships are not just about funding education,” said Mair Armand, the WWC’s second vice president (membership). “They are about investing in the futures of women who are transforming their lives, their families and our community.”
The scholarship recipients will be honored during the organization’s June monthly meeting and scholarship awards dinner in Wellington. Community members are invited to join in celebrating these remarkable women. The WWC extends its deepest gratitude to all applicants and to the generous donors who make these scholarships possible each year.
For more information about the Women of the Western Communities Scholarship Program, including how to support or apply in future cycles, contact Armand at mair.armand1@gmail.com or find the WWC on social media.
The Women of the Western Communities is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting and empowering local women and local charitable organizations in Wellington, Royal Palm Beach, The Acreage, Loxahatchee, Arden, Westlake and western Lake Worth since 1977. Through annual need-based scholarships, the group helps women pursue higher education and overcome financial barriers to success.
