Helen G. Ward

The School Nutrition Association of Virginia offers educational scholarships each year through the Helen G. Ward Scholarship Fund. The scholarship funds may be awarded to one or more qualified applicants who meet the following criteria:

• Has been a member of SNA-VA for two consecutive years
• Is currently employed in food service
• Plans to continue to work in school food service in Virginia at least one year after having used scholarship funds.

Previous recipients are eligible to apply again.

What is a recipient's obligation?

Recipients of scholarship funds must agree to do the following:

• Successfully complete approved course or courses.
• Retain a position in the Virginia School Food Service field for one year following the use of scholarship funds awarded.

If the recipient of the scholarship is unable to fulfill these obligations, all scholarship funds must be returned.

What courses should one take to be eligible?

Undergraduate or graduate courses taken can be in nutrition, food service management or a related area leading to a degree in an approved food service curriculum. Also, noncredit courses may be taken to improve knowledge and skills in the areas of nutrition and school food service.

Where do courses have to be taken to be eligible?

Courses may be taken from an accredited college, university or community college in Virginia or in another state. Online courses such as courses through "Child Nutrition U" are appropriate.

Many members have taken advantage of this scholarship to advance their careers in the school nutrition industry. If you are interested in furthering your education, submit your application, by February 1st, 2009 to:

Sandra Stokes
SNA of VA Scholarship Chairman
7610 Whitepine Road
Richmond, VA 23237

The winning recipient(s) will be recognized at the March 2009 State Conference.

Download the Application