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The Montana Bioscience Alliance is proud to relaunch the Sharon Peterson STEM Scholarship, an annual award created to honor the legacy of our founder and former Executive Director, Sharon Peterson. Through the generous support of Shodair Children’s Hospital’s Department of Medical Genetics, the Paul M. & Cynthia Foster Foundation, and Cynthia Tsai, we are pleased to offer two scholarships of $2,750 each in 2026.
This scholarship recognizes Sharon’s dedication to education, collaboration, and the advancement of biosciences in Montana. Her work helped shape opportunities for students, educators, and communities across the state, and her legacy continues through this meaningful investment in Montana teachers.
Scholarship Purpose
The Sharon Peterson STEM Scholarship supports Montana educators who are committed to strengthening STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning in their schools and communities. The scholarship provides flexible funding that can be used for:
- Professional development or continuing education
- Classroom STEM resources or equipment
- Innovative curriculum or project-based learning
- New or expanded STEM programs or initiatives
- Community-based STEM events, partnerships, or outreach
By empowering teachers, this scholarship advances Sharon’s vision of inspiring future generations of scientists, innovators, and problem-solvers.
Who Should Apply
This scholarship is open to Montana teachers who exemplify leadership, creativity, and commitment to STEM education. Ideal applicants include:
K–12 STEM Teachers
Educators teaching science, technology, engineering, or mathematics in Montana public or private schools—with special encouragement for applicants from rural or underserved communities.
Passionate Innovators
Teachers actively working to create engaging, hands-on, or inquiry-based STEM experiences for their students.
Community Leaders
Educators who build partnerships, involve their local community, or lead STEM events, clubs, or outreach programs.
Visionaries
Teachers with new or enhanced STEM ideas, programs, or classroom solutions that require funding to bring to life.
If you’re a Montana educator committed to advancing STEM opportunities for students, we encourage you to apply.
Apply Now
🌐 Application Link: bit.ly/spscholarship25
📅 Applications are accepted online through the Montana Bioscience Alliance.
Deadline to apply: January 9th, 11:59PM MST
Continuing Sharon’s Legacy
This scholarship reflects Sharon Peterson’s steadfast belief in the power of education and community. By supporting Montana’s teachers, we honor her legacy and continue her work to expand opportunity, strengthen STEM learning, and inspire the next generation across our state.
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