Honoring a WAVE’s legacy: Batavia scholarship opportunity for high school women

Chapter EA of P.E.O. encourages Batavia High School women in their senior year to apply for the Ruth Burnham Memorial scholarship in the amount of $1,200. This scholarship was established in 2022 in memory of Ruth Burnham, a P.E.O. member for over 60 years, who was dedicated to P.E.O. and to the community of Batavia.

Burnham was proud of belonging to “the greatest generation,” after enlisting in the WAVES, women’s branch of the U.S. Naval Reserve in 1942. Burnham once wrote that “embracing a cause — making a difference — gives a perpetual spark to one's life journey,” a belief that served her throughout her lifetime. Her commitment to volunteer service was remarkable.

P.E.O. is a women’s organization that supports philanthropy, education, and opportunities for women through grants, scholarships, gifts and loans.

Applications for the Ruth Burnham Scholarship can be found at the Batavia High Student Scholarship Portal. This scholarship can be used at an accredited two- or four-year college/university or an accredited vocational institution.

All applications for this scholarship must be submitted to P.E.O. Chapter EA by 4 p.m. April 4.