Union Plus Scholarship awards are presented annually to union members or members of their families who are working hard to begin (or continue) their post-secondary education. This year, Union Plus has awarded $150,000 in scholarships to 121 students representing 42 unions, including three winners from SEIU. The competition this year was especially tough, given that more than 5,000 applications were received from students representing all 50 states, Puerto Rico and Canada.
So, without further ado, we'd like to introduce you to the 2010 SEIU honorees:
- John Ference of Westfield, MA, whose mother Dori-Ann Ference is a member of SEIU Local 207, has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship.
- Lynda Meheula of Federal Way, WA, who is a member of SEIU Local 925, has been awarded a $1,000 scholarship.
- April Sabbe of Tigard, OR, who is a member of SEIU Local 503, has been awarded a $1,500 scholarship.
Congratulations to John, Lynda and April!
Coming from a Union Family
John Ference understands the role of unions goes far beyond negotiating fair pay and benefits. When his mother was dealing with a difficult situation at work, John says her union SEIU Local 207 made sure she was treated fairly and with respect. John has done his own share of ensuring respect for others through his volunteer work at the local soup kitchen and as a coach and referee for youth sports. John plans on studying meteorology and electrical engineering in college, with the aspiration of one day working at a government agency to help track and predict storms.
A Blessed 'Union'
"Twenty years ago I was a single mother with three young children, needing assistance, not judgment, from my local services agencies," said SEIU Local 925 member Lynda Meheula. In the two decades since, Lynda has met and married a union man (her husband is a member of IAM Local 751) and joined a union herself. She's now studying to attain a degree with the goal of helping parents and children who are going through tough times. "It is humbling to assist others in their time of need for clothing, school supplies and, most frequently, a friend with an open ear to listen."
Attaining a Dream with Union Support
Going back to school after years away isn't easy, but SEIU Local 503 member April Sabbe remains focused on her goal to earn a degree in computer science. "Writing code and testing software has become a passion and love in my life," says April.
What has made her path easier along the way: a mentor who believes in her and a union that stands behind her. "SEIU has been instrumental in supporting my career goals and fighting for fairness and equality. As a woman, the labor movement has allowed me the freedom to pick a field that challenges me." April now is less than a year away from achieving her degree and attaining her dream.
See the entire list of Union Plus scholarship recipients here.
Learn More About the Union Plus Scholarship Program: Visit www.UnionPlus.org/Education for applications and benefit eligibility.
