From press release

The YWCA of Rockford is now accepting Bright Future Scholarship applications as well as nominations for outstanding leaders who exemplify the mission of the YWCA, eliminating racism and empowering women. These individuals will be honored at Leader Luncheon 30: Women of Achievement, to be held Monday, March 1, 2010.

Keynote speaker will be Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, the eldest daughter of Robert F. Kennedy. She was the first female lieutenant governor of Maryland. She brings not only an esteemed list of accomplishments, but the unique perspective of being a Kennedy.

The YWCA of Rockford will award a $1,500 Bright Future Scholarship at the event. Applicants must be female high school seniors planning to continue their education (not limited to college). The applicant must be a resident of northern Illinois and maintain a 2.5 scholastic average or equivalent. The scholarship was created to assist young women who demonstrate leadership qualities, along with a commitment to diversity while contributing to their school and community with their educational goals. Scholarship applications must be postmarked by Jan. 14, 2010.

YWCA of Rockford announced the following new award categories for the 30th anniversary of Leader Luncheon, as follows:

• Business: includes women in business and non-profit sectors who make a significant contribution in their field.

• Community Leadership: includes women who are professionals and volunteers in government, public service, politics, and community action.

• Mentorship: a male or female whose mentoring relationship(s) has had a major impact on the personal and professional development of women and has fostered excellence. The purpose of the award is to honor an individual who has taught, guided and inspired women in ways that have changed their lives.

• Professions: women in the fields of medicine, law, education, science, engineering, architecture or other fields that require professional accreditation to perform work in that field.

• Promise Award: given to reaffirm YWCA’s commitment to young women and their importance to the future of the YWCA and its mission. The nominee must be a young woman between the ages of 18 and 35. The award is given to an individual with sufficient community service and professional success to indicate her potential for extraordinary leadership and service.

• Racial Justice Award: includes women who have demonstrated outstanding commitment to promoting racial justice and have worked toward the elimination of racism. The Racial Justice honoree must demonstrate a commitment to racial equality and the advocacy of fundamental rights for all races.

Prior nominees are eligible for re-nomination; current members of the YWCA Board of Directors, YWCA staff members and winners within the past five years cannot be nominated. Nominations are due by Friday, Jan. 15, 2010, at 5 p.m.

Nomination forms and scholarship applications are available for download at www.ywca.org/rockford; additional copies are available at the YWCA of Rockford office, 4990 E. State St., Rockford.

From the December 2-8, 2009 issue