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AWFS Awards $82,000 in Scholarships

The payout is a record annual amount for AWFS, which awards scholarships to students within the wood-related industry.

Nicholas Tamarin -- Interior Design, 7/15/2008 12:00:00 AM

The Association of Woodworking and Furnishings Suppliers has brought joy to the hearts, and wallets, of 27 students across the country by awarding $82,000 in scholarships for the 2008-2009 academic year, the biggest annual payout in the organization's history.

The AWFS offers scholarships in three areas: general industry scholarships for post-secondary studies related to the wood industry, WoodLINKS scholarships for students who have completed the industry-recognized WoodLINKS curriculum, and member scholarships for children of employees at AWFS member companies

"We believe our scholarship program is a great way for the industry to give back," says AWFS scholarship committee chair, Jon Sanchez. "The fund encourages young people to pursue careers in the wood industry. It also supports our members by helping deserving students from AWFS families have funds to continue their education."

The AWFS Industry Scholarship program was designed to encourage and support those planning careers in the secondary wood products industry. Students attending universities, community colleges, and trade schools are eligible, with a maximum award of $4,000 per year for up to four years.

Children of employees of AWFS member companies are eligible to receive $3,000 per year for up to four years of undergraduate college education with scholarships awarded based on academic merit, community service, and school involvement. The Maury Ostrove scholarship, named for the association’s past president and long-time founding member, provides funding to a student who requires financial aid.