Upper Keys BPW Offers Up to $1,500 Scholarships for Working Women

For a working woman in the Upper Keys, $1,500 can mean the difference between finally enrolling in a healthcare certification course and another year of putting it off. The Upper Keys Business and Professional Women is accepting applications for its Adult Women's Scholarship through April 15, 2026, offering individual grants of up to $1,500 to cover costs tied to job training, professional certifications, or college coursework.

"Our scholarship program is uniquely designed for women who are already in the workforce and ready to take the next step in their careers," said Rose Littlejohn, chair of the Upper Keys BPW Scholarship Committee. "Whether someone is pursuing a certification, completing a degree or developing entirely new skills, these scholarships help remove financial barriers and create opportunities for growth."

To qualify, applicants need a high school diploma or GED, at least three years of post-high-school work experience, and at least three years of residency in the Upper Keys. They must also currently be accepted into or enrolled in an eligible education or training program. The core documentation to assemble includes proof of Upper Keys residency, employment history, and proof of enrollment or acceptance; local career centers and employer HR offices can help with application letters and employment verification.

The scholarship targets sectors where Monroe County faces chronic staffing shortages, including healthcare support, marine trades, hospitality management, and public safety support roles. In a seasonal economy where many working adults balance multiple jobs and family care responsibilities against a high cost of living, covering certification or tuition costs out of pocket often is not realistic. The Upper Keys BPW awards scholarships twice each year, in spring and fall, making this one of the few locally accessible funding cycles for adult learners who may not qualify for larger institutional aid. Recent recipients include Jennifer Dutton and Kristin Szpak.

"We are thrilled to support women who are dedicating their precious time and energy to improving their futures for themselves and their families," said Patricia Milian, president of the Upper Keys BPW. "For nearly 70 years, our organization has championed working women in the Upper Keys, and our scholarship program is one of the most meaningful ways we support and empower women so they can achieve their career and life goals."

Recipients will be recognized at the Upper Keys BPW Annual Meeting and Luncheon on May 20. Applications and program details are available at upperkeysbpw.org, and questions can be directed to ukbpwscholarship@gmail.com.