CHW announces new scholarship for University of Alberta students

By Jennifer Kovacs, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

(AJNews) – CHW (Canadian Hadassah-WIZO) is once again demonstrating its commitment to education and local Jewish communities by establishing a new annual scholarship in Jewish Studies at the University of Alberta in Edmonton.

According to Lisa Colt-Kotler, CHW CEO, “This scholarship will be granted each year to one (or more) students with satisfactory academic standing who are enrolled in any year of an undergraduate degree program. Recipients will be selected based on academic achievement in at least one course related to Jewish history, religion, music, or culture. Preference will be given to students who demonstrate meaningful engagement in co-curricular activities that support or promote Jewish Studies at the University of Alberta.”

There will be $4,000 available annually, with a preference for four awards at $1,000.

Established in 1917 by visionary Jewish women, CHW is a non-political, non-partisan national network of dedicated volunteers who firmly believe in the advancement of education, healthcare, and social services, transcending politics, religion, and national boundaries.

CHW’s vision has long been to create lasting impact for at-risk women and children in Israel and Canada. Colt-Kotler says that by supporting local scholarship initiatives, “CHW is reinforcing its commitment to education as a powerful tool for strengthening individuals, fostering resilience, and building vibrant, connected communities.”

Other CHW awards at Alberta post-secondary institutions are:  In Edmonton, CHW provides the Terry Horwitz Memorial Award – an annual bursary for a second-year MacEwan University student in the Faculty of Health and Community Studies, based on community involvement. In Calgary CHW provides annual scholarships at Alberta University of the Arts and Mount Royal University, focusing on volunteerism and leadership within the Jewish Community.

At a time when Jewish identity and community connection are more important than ever, investing in Jewish Studies is both timely and essential, says Colt-Kotler. “Academic programs in Jewish Studies preserve and explore the richness of Jewish history and provide students with the knowledge and confidence to engage proudly in their identity. These programs create spaces for dialogue, understanding, and community-building on campus, helping to combat isolation and antisemitism while fostering a strong sense of belonging.”

Through this award, CHW aims to empower future leaders, educators, and advocates who will contribute meaningfully to Jewish communities in Canada and beyond.

Colt-Kotler expressed, “At CHW, we believe that education is one of the most powerful ways to shape identity, inspire leadership, and strengthen community. By investing in students pursuing Jewish Studies, we are helping to nurture a generation that is proud of its heritage and equipped to carry it forward. This award reflects our commitment not only to academic excellence, but to the continuity and vitality of Jewish life in Canada.”

Click here to learn more about CHW and its many events and initiatives.