This fund was established by Eleanor Williams Curry, an active civic leader on the Peninsula. Scholarships are awarded to young women who are self-motivated, need financial support and attempt to achieve despite tremendous obstacles. Young women who have dropped out of school for reasons beyond their control, or have undergone unusual hardships to remain in school are encouraged to apply.

The selection committee also considers circumstances related to possible ethnic or racial discrimination, physical disability or the choice of a nontraditional area of study.

• Young woman aged 18 to 26
• Maximum cumulative grade point average of 3.3 on a 4.0 scale
• Demonstrated financial hardship
• Current resident of San Mateo County, preference given to residents of East Palo Alto, East Menlo Park, Redwood City and San Mateo
• Current graduating high school senior, graduate or G.E.D. certificate holder: preference given to students who attend(ed) East Palo Alto Academy, East Side College Prep, Menlo Atherton, Sequoia, Carlmont and San Mateo high schools
• Planning to enroll or currently enrolled in a two or four year college or university as a full-time student