About The Program
The late Dr. Salm was a lifelong feminist and founder of Palm Springs Area NOW. She was also an outspoken Coachella Valley community leader. She viewed education as the primary method for enhancing personal growth and developing self-worth in people. The Palm Springs Area Chapter of the National Organization for Women is honored to pay tribute to her memory and legacy through this scholarship program.
In 2008 we will award two $1500 scholarships to qualified recipients in the Coachella Valley and our surrounding communities who have met or are about to meet the state requirements for graduation from secondary school or who have met or are about to meet the state requirements for General Educational Development diploma (GED).
Applicants must be pursuing an academic degree from an accredited institution of higher education. This scholarship is designed to provide financial assistance to further the educational development of persons aspiring to become more effective feminists. Successful applicants will also demonstrate a commitment to furthering the cause of women's rights. In honor of Dr. Salm and in keeping with the mission and vision of the National Organization for Women, applicants are encouraged to provide evidence of their pro-choice philosophy.
Scholarships are awarded annually, in March, to correspond with National Women's History Month.
2008 Award Recipients
Melissa Darnell and Michelle Flores were honored in an informal ceremony at our Chapter's March meeting. They each read a portion of their application essays, after which they shared cake. To read more about Melissa and Michelle, please go here.
2007 Award Recipients
“While today we women are no longer a minority, the war on women and our reproductive rights wages on. As a gender that is continually subjected to political choice bashing we need to ensure that the right to choose is maintained for the health and well being of our future daughters. So I will raise my voice for choice.” These determined words came from Amber Ross, Deans List, cross country team member and College of the Desert May 2007 graduate. In the fall at CSU Long Beach Amber plans on getting first, a degree in kinesiology then on to her master’s in physical therapy. Amber has met and overcome many challenges in her life all the while being self sufficient. She makes political progress with her volunteer work for Planned Parenthood, the Desert AIDS project and for child protection education in relation to gun safety. Amber hopes to have a positive affect on her community.
"To me women’s rights have always meant freedom. Freedom is always worth fighting for. I believe in empowering women to do whatever they want. Women should arm themselves with knowledge and courage in order to stand up for our rights and maintain the equality we deserve.” These motivating words come from Megan Thomas, Honor Roll student, Palm Springs HS 2007 graduate. Louisiana State University is where Megan plans on studying communications/Journalism/ Political Science, with hopes to be a political reporter. Megan hopes to write for Time Magazine or the Rolling Stone. Megan was the high school’s youngest editor ever. She is an outspoken activist for human rights and reproductive freedoms. She tutor’s children and is a black belt in Karate. Megan strongly believes that the fight for women’s rights effects women of today and tomorrow.
"Many societies in history have placed little emphasis or value on the role of women. This is unfortunate, however it can be changed and America is making strides to recognize women such as Rosa Parks and Susan B. Anthony who have changed the face of history. One day I plan to be one of these women." These powerful words came from Nichole Driscoll-Funari, Dean's list member, COD 2007 graduate. California State University, San Bernardino Palm Desert campus is where Nichole plans on studying psychology. She hopes to open her own domestic violence shelter and to counsel women and children. Working at COD, Nichole is the sole provider for her two young children. She volunteers at her children's school, the Desert AIDS Walk, Cancer Rally for Life and is an activist for pro choice and women's rights causes. Nichole has overcome much adveristy to reach this point in achieving her goals. Nichole's life goals are to advance the lives of women through empowerment and education. It is her firm belief that we as women are beautiful and powerful creatures.