AFA Announces 2011 Spouse Scholarships

Arlington, VA – The Air Force Association (AFA) today announced four education scholarships of $2,500 each to assist spouses of Airmen as they pursue college or graduate degrees.

These special scholarships, based on academic achievement, recommendations and community involvement, are awarded to spouses of Airmen from Air Force active duty, Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve.

“AFA always strives to support not just aerospace education, but also the Air Force family,” said George Muellner, Vice Chairman of the Board, Aerospace Education. “The men and women who provide the support at home for our Airmen are truly remarkable individuals. AFA is thrilled to use this program as an opportunity to show our appreciation to our nation’s military spouses.”

AFA supports education with numerous scholarships and grants to Air Force active duty, Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve members and their dependents; and awards various educator grants to promote science and math education at the elementary and secondary school level.

2011 AFA Spouse Scholarship Recipients

D’Ann Warnke, O’Fallon, Illinois

Following a passion for wellness, D’Ann began teaching a variety of group fitness classes and one-on-one instruction as well as staying current with certifications. In order to enhance her knowledge and credibility as a fitness professional, D’Ann is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management, Health and Fitness. D’Ann one day hopes to open her own personal health and wellness studio to help those near Air Force communities.

Logan C. Schmaltz, Moorhead, Minnesota

With a deep-rooted desire to have a positive impact on people, communities and animals, Logan is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology and chemistry in order to meet pre-veterinary requirements. Recognizing the role that animals play in human health, Logan plans to focus on public health and epidemiology related to animals.

Laura Ann Atkins, Joint Base Elmendorf, Alaska

Laura is pursuing a Bachelor of General Studies degree with an emphasis on finance and history. With this degree, Laura will serve as a voluntary financial advisor to service members and their families. Laura hopes to merge her education with the experiences she has encountered over the past three decades as a military spouse to help motivate those who view university degrees unattainable.

Sharon Groves, Columbia, South Carolina

Sharon’s interest in counseling and working with others to improve relationships has led her to pursue a Masters in Social Work with plans to complete certification as a family and marriage counselor. Her years and experiences as a minister’s wife within the military community has sparked an interest in providing support to military families.

Click here to view photos of Scholarship Recipients

For more information on this scholarship, contact Lynette Cross at 703.247.5800 ext. 4807 or LCross@AFA.org.