Josephine Marley Beckwith Future Leaders Scholarship
YWCA supports young women through their college-level education with the Josephine Marley Beckwith Future Leaders Scholarship, honoring Mrs. Beckwith’s dedication to education and equality. These future female leaders are awarded up to $4000 over 4 years based on their contributions to the community and their work within YWCA’s mission.
Josephine Marley Beckwith
Mrs. Beckwith was a pioneering figure in civil rights. She was an educator and mentor and always felt very strongly about education. She and her sister, Naomi, lived through the days when schools were still segregated here in Alton. Through Mrs. Beckwith’s continuous intervention and the assistance of her sister quitting her job and returning to Alton, she was able to secure kindergarten for people of color despite initial resistance.
Throughout her life, she was outspoken and dedicated about the need for and importance of education for all. Thanks to the Alton African American History Project, you can listen to her speak on civil rights and education here.
She was the first African American employed at the Olin-Matheson Corporation and at YWCA. Her life was dedicated toward the service of the community. As a result of her lifetime of activism, Mrs. Beckwith was named a YWCA Woman of Distinction in 2002.
History
The scholarship, established in 1991, supports high school senior girls in pursuing higher education. The scholarship is not only awarded based on grades, although excelling at school is certainly a start. There is a focus instead on community service, leadership, volunteerism, and all types of achievements aligned with the YWCA’s mission. Scholars who have been awarded the $1000 scholarship may earn a renewal for up to 4 years through their academic achievements and continued service to the community. The JMBFL Scholarship originated with Women of Distinction, and the scholars are still celebrated each year at the Women of Distinction Gala alongside the honorees.
Cameron Conwell
Jada Bruce
Samantha Kulish
Isabella Hall
Elizabeth Blackmon
Emma Smith
Guadalupe Calixto
“The JMBFL Scholarship opens doors for young women, empowering them to seize opportunities and shape a brighter future as tomorrow’s leaders."
- Dr. Wendy Adams, Co-Chair of the YWCA JMBFL Scholarship Committee, WOD 2020
“This scholarship continues to open doors for students, giving them the valuable opportunity to pursue their educational goals and shape their futures."
- Dr. Dorothy Mosby, Co-Chair of the Scholarship Committee, member of the YWCA Board, WOD 2023
Scholarship Applications
Join us in fostering Mrs. Beckwith's spirit of volunteering and community involvement. Be part of a legacy that transcends education—apply and shape a future of empowerment!
Open to young women attending high school in Madison County
Must have completed at least seven semesters of high school courses
$1,000 renewable scholarship (up to 4 years)
The application period is now closed. Check back with us in Fall 2025.
Click here for last year’s JMBFL application. This application will not be used in Fall 2025 but may give an idea of what we look for in our applicants.
Click here for last year’s renewal application.
Click here for a community service log.
Support Future Leaders
JMBFL Scholars are more than just students with excellent grades. They are dedicated young leaders already contributing to the YWCA’s mission to eliminate racism, empower women, stand up for social justice, help families, and strengthen communities. These young women volunteer their efforts towards making the world around them a better place.
You can take part in supporting the future generation of female leaders. Donate today and directly impact the lives of the next generation.