Scholarship Directory
Sandra Sebrell Bailey Scholarship
Sandra Sebrell Bailey Scholarship
The Sandra Bailey Scholarship is named for Sandra Bailey, Theta-The Ohio State University, a dedicated leader and Past National Officer who also served as a Delta Zeta Foundation Trustee. A lifelong supporter of the Sorority, Sandra was honored with the Achoth Award in 2021 for her outstanding service and commitment.
Sandra created this scholarship to give back to the sisterhood that shaped her journey. With a passion for education and leadership, she hopes to support members who are preparing to make a difference in the classroom and beyond.
Eligibility and Preferences:
Awarded to a junior or senior Delta Zeta member in good standing who has been initiated for at least one year. Preference will be given to those pursuing a career in education.
Charline Chilson Scholarship
Charline Chilson Scholarship
The Charline Chilson Scholarship honors the legacy of Charline Chilson Potts, Alpha Chi-University of California/Los Angeles. Initiated into Delta Zeta in 1925, Charline served as Chapter Treasurer and graduated with a degree in science, an impressive achievement at a time when few women entered scientific fields. She later worked as a technical librarian specializing in chemical research.
Charline’s desire to pursue an advanced degree was blocked by the limitations placed on women in higher education at the time. These challenges shaped her deep commitment to helping future generations of Delta Zeta women achieve their academic dreams, especially in fields where women have been historically underrepresented.
She and her husband, Calvin, lived simply in Northern California and made a few quiet gifts to the Delta Zeta Foundation during their lives. Unbeknownst to the Foundation, they named Delta Zeta as the sole beneficiary of their estate, an extraordinary act of generosity that now supports sisters following in Charline’s footsteps.
Eligibility and Preferences:
This scholarship is awarded to Delta Zeta members in good standing who are juniors, seniors or graduate students. Preference is given to those pursuing degrees in science or related fields.
Elizabeth M. Gruber Scholarship
Elizabeth M. Gruber Scholarship
The Elizabeth M. Gruber Scholarship is named for Elizabeth M. Gruber, Alpha Beta-University of Illinois. A proud Delta Zeta and passionate advocate for the liberal arts, Mrs. Gruber generously established this scholarship to support graduate students pursuing advanced degrees in liberal arts fields. Her deep appreciation for the value of a well-rounded education, combined with her lifelong loyalty to Delta Zeta, inspired her to invest in the academic futures of women who share those same values.
Mrs. Gruber’s commitment to education and sisterhood is especially tied to her roots at the Alpha Beta Chapter and her enduring connection to the midwest. She believed that the transformative power of a Delta Zeta experience, grounded in leadership, scholarship and community, extends far beyond college and into the lives and careers of its members. Through this scholarship, she hoped to empower sisters to continue their educational journeys and leave meaningful marks on their communities and professions.
Eligibility and Preferences:
This scholarship is awarded to a Delta Zeta graduate student pursuing a degree in a liberal arts discipline. Preference will be given to members of the Alpha Beta Chapter or to Delta Zetas currently attending graduate school in the Midwest.
Lavonne Heghinian Scholarship
Lavonne Heghinian Scholarship
The Lavonne Heghinian Scholarship is named for Lavonne McClain Heghinian, Alpha Iota-University of Southern California (USC). Lavonne established this scholarship through a generous bequest in her estate, with the hope of giving back to the sisterhood that meant so much to her and helping to support the future of the Alpha Iota Chapter. Her gift was held in trust to aid in the recolonization of the chapter, a testament to her belief in the power of Delta Zeta’s presence at USC and her dedication to ensuring its legacy continued.
A proud recipient of the Achoth Award in 1964, Lavonne exemplified the spirit of lifelong sisterhood and service. Her commitment to Delta Zeta extended far beyond her collegiate years, and she remained devoted to supporting members in meaningful and lasting ways. Through this scholarship, Lavonne’s legacy lives on by helping active, initiated Delta Zeta sisters continue their education, even in the face of financial hardship.
Lavonne believed that Delta Zeta should always be a source of strength, opportunity and belonging. By directing this scholarship to benefit members in need, especially those in Southern California, she ensured her support would remain close to home while still touching the lives of sisters across the country.
Eligibility and Preferences:
This scholarship is awarded to an initiated, active, continuing member of Delta Zeta in need of financial assistance. Preference will be given to applicants from Southern California.
Houston/Nancy Holliman Scholarship
Houston/Nancy Holliman Scholarship
The Houston/Nancy Holliman Scholarship honors Nancy Holliman, Alpha Tau-University of Texas/Austin, a dedicated Delta Zeta sister, Achoth Award recipient and former Foundation Trustee. A leader in the Houston community and a member of Memorial Drive Lutheran Church, Nancy was known for her passion for service and commitment to empowering women through education.
Established by the Houston Alumnae Chapter, this scholarship reflects Nancy’s legacy and supports Delta Zeta women pursuing degrees in audiology, speech-language pathology or related fields. Her belief in the value of education and service continues to inspire those following in her footsteps.
Eligibility and Preferences:
Awarded to an initiated, active Delta Zeta member in her junior or senior year majoring in hearing and speech, audiology or an allied field. Selection is based on academic achievement, campus involvement and service to Delta Zeta. Preference may be given to applicants with ties to the Houston, Texas area.
Sarah Jane Houston Scholarship
Sarah Jane Houston Scholarship
The Sarah Jane Houston Scholarship is named after Sarah Jane Houston, Alpha Beta-University of Illinois.
Eligibility and Preferences:
Scholarship for a Delta Zeta member majoring in English or related fields such as speech, debate, drama, theater or education with preference given to applicants from chapters in Illinois.
Betsy B. and Gerald A. Leach Scholarship
Betsy B. and Gerald A. Leach Scholarship
The Betsy B. and Gerald A. Leach Scholarship was created in 1996 by Betsy Bradley Leach, Alpha Iota-University of Southern California, in memory of her husband, Gerald A. Leach. Gerald spent more than 30 years serving the public in Los Angeles, and Betsy wanted to honor his legacy through something meaningful.
Betsy was passionate about the power of museums, not just as places that hold history, but as spaces that teach us about the world, different cultures and how our past can shape our future. She held several national leadership roles in Delta Zeta, including Curator Emerita and
Trustee of the Delta Zeta National Historical Museum, National Vice President of College Programs and Panhellenic Delegate.
Eligibility and Preferences:
Open to initiated, active and continuing members of Delta Zeta pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in museum studies or related fields such as library science, archaeology, geology or art history.
Lois Lehman Scholarship
Lois Lehman Scholarship
The Lois Lehman Scholarship is named in honor of Lois Lehman, Mu Chapter-University of California/Berkeley. Following in her mother’s footsteps, Lois joined Delta Zeta at UC Berkeley and remained a dedicated and active member for over 70 years until her passing in 2019. Her unwavering commitment to sisterhood, service and education left a legacy that continues to inspire generations of Delta Zetas.
Throughout her lifetime, Lois exemplified the values of Delta Zeta through her involvement at both the chapter and national levels. She was recognized with the Golden Rose Award in 2001 and the Achoth Award in 2006. Lois believed deeply in the importance of giving back, encouraging future generations to do the same once they found success in their own lives.
Eligibility and Preferences:
The Lois Lehman Scholarship will be awarded annually in the amount of $5,000, consisting of one $2,000 scholarship for an undergraduate member and one $3,000 scholarship for a graduate student. Applicants must be Delta Zeta members in good standing who have been actively involved in both chapter and campus life. Scholarships may be used for tuition, fees or textbook costs.
Jean Wickstrom Liles Scholarship
Jean Wickstrom Liles Scholarship
The Jean Wickstrom Liles Scholarship is named for Jean Wickstrom Liles, Alpha Gamma-University of Alabama. Jean created this scholarship to give back to the organizations, Delta Zeta and the University of Alabama, that shaped her, and to support students who, like her, balanced academics with hard work and leadership. She hopes to ease financial burdens for Delta Zeta members who are striving to succeed despite challenges.
Jean’s involvement with Delta Zeta began in her freshman year and launched a lifelong commitment to service, leadership and sisterhood. Her chapter encouraged campus involvement, which helped her grow into a confident leader with skills that carried into a successful career as Senior Foods Editor at Southern Living magazine. She has received national honors for her work in home economics and was named one of the top 31 female graduates of her university.
Jean’s values, service, teamwork and gratitude, are at the heart of this scholarship. She believes in the power of giving back and hopes recipients will be inspired to do the same. Whether through thank you notes or future support, she wants to instill a spirit of connection and appreciation that lives on beyond the classroom.
Eligibility and Preferences:
The scholarship is awarded to junior or senior Delta Zeta members in good standing who have:
- Strong campus and chapter involvement
- A minimum GPA of 3.0
- Demonstrated financial need
Preference is given to applicants who attend school or reside in Alabama. If no one meets the preference, the award may be given to any qualified Delta Zeta member. Funds may be used for tuition, fees, textbooks or other academic expenses.
Elsa Ludeke Memorial Scholarship
Elsa Ludeke Memorial Scholarship
The Elsa Ludeke Memorial Scholarship is named for Elsa Ludeke, a devoted founder of Beta Phi Alpha, one of Delta Zeta’s legacy organizations. In 1942, the Beta Phi Alpha scholarship fund was renamed in her honor at the Delta Zeta National Convention to recognize her enduring legacy of service, leadership and sisterhood.
Elsa believed deeply in education and the lifelong impact of sorority membership. Her generous gift established a scholarship that continues to support Delta Zeta alumnae pursuing graduate study, especially those returning to school after time away. Her legacy lives on through this fund, which honors women who exemplify dedication, resilience, and academic achievement.
Eligibility and Preferences:
The Elsa Ludeke Memorial Scholarship is awarded to alumnae members of Delta Zeta pursuing graduate studies and who demonstrate financial need. Preference is given to:
- Those returning to school after a break of three or more years
- Applicants who were active in undergraduate leadership, service and maintained at least a 3.0 GPA
John L. and Eleanore I. McKinley Scholarship
John L. and Eleanore I. McKinley Scholarship
The John L. and Eleanore I. McKinley Scholarship is named after Eleanore, Alpha Epsilon-Oklahoma State University, and her husband, John McKinley. In 1990, Eleanore was awarded the Order of the Pearl, highlighting her dedication to Delta Zeta.
Eligibility & Preferences:
Scholarship is for a junior or senior member in good standing.
Jennifer B. and Vernon L. Morrison Scholarship
Jennifer B. and Vernon L. Morrison Scholarship
The Jennifer B. and Vernon L. Morrison Scholarship is named for Jennifer Morrison, Theta-The Ohio State University, and her husband, Vernon. Jennifer and Vernon created this scholarship to support Delta Zeta sisters pursuing degrees in business or economics.
Jennifer held several leadership roles in college, including chapter Treasurer and Panhellenic President and credits Delta Zeta for providing the leadership training and philanthropic opportunities that helped launch her career. Scholarships from the Foundation allowed her to stay in school, and the generosity she experienced continues to inspire her commitment to pay it forward. Jennifer hopes this scholarship helps empower future Delta Zetas to complete their education, grow as leaders and one day give back themselves.
Eligibility and Preferences:
Available to Delta Zeta sisters in good standing with at least a 3.0 GPA. Preferences are given to:
- Theta Chapter at The Ohio State University,
- Any Ohio Delta Zeta chapter members,
- Members residing in Ohio,
- Students pursuing degrees in Business or Economics (including accounting, finance, marketing and MBA programs).
Open to both undergraduate and graduate students. May be used for tuition, fees or textbook costs.
Gail Patrick Charitable Trust “Women of Distinction” Scholarship
Gail Patrick Charitable Trust “Women of Distinction” Scholarship
The Gail Patrick Charitable Trust “Women of Distinct” Scholarship is named for Gail Patrick, Alpha Pi-Howard College (AL), a remarkable Delta Zeta who dedicated her life to leadership, service, and empowering women. She was the first woman elected student body president at Woodlawn High School in Birmingham, Alabama and pursued aviation in college, flying open cockpit planes at a time when few women did. In 1961, she was honored as the Los Angeles Times Woman of the Year for her accomplishments and influence.
At the 2004 Delta Zeta National Convention, it was announced that Gail had bequeathed $1 million to the Delta Zeta Foundation. It was the largest gift in the Foundation’s history. Her generosity established the Woman of Distinction Program, which provides scholarships for Delta Zeta members and a $5,000 honorarium to recognize the Delta Zeta Woman of the Year.
Gail’s gift reflects her belief in supporting the next generation of women leaders and ensuring that Delta Zetas continue to make a meaningful impact in their communities and careers.
Eligibility and Preferences:
Awarded to a Delta Zeta alumna in good standing who graduated from her undergraduate institution within the past ten years. Preference is given to applicants who demonstrate leadership, academic excellence and a commitment to service or professional growth.
Christy Phillips-Brown Scholarship
Christy Phillips-Brown Scholarship
The Christy Phillips-Brown Scholarship is named for Christy Phillips-Brown, Theta Iota-Western Carolina University (NC). A Past National President of Delta Zeta, Christy created this scholarship to give back to the sisterhood that shaped her life. As a first-generation college student, she had no plans to join Greek life until two Delta Zeta sisters encouraged her to attend an event. That moment sparked a journey of academic success, deep friendships and unexpected career opportunities.
While juggling three jobs and maintaining a 4.0 GPA, Delta Zeta kept Christy motivated and supported. A chance conversation during a chapter event led to a corporate communications internship and a career she hadn’t considered. The bonds she formed in Delta Zeta have continued to uplift her through personal loss and family challenges.
Christy’s scholarship honors students like herself-those working hard to stay in school without financial safety nets. She hopes this support makes a meaningful difference, just as Delta Zeta did for her. Even beyond her presidency, she continues to give through time, resources and heartfelt commitment to her sisters.
Eligibility and Preferences:
This scholarship is awarded to Delta Zeta members in good standing with a minimum 3.0 GPA who are first-generation college students. If no applicants meet this preference, the scholarship may be awarded to any member who meets the academic requirement. Both undergraduate and graduate students are eligible. Funds may support tuition, fees, textbooks or other educational costs.
Margaret A. Purcell Scholarship
Margaret A. Purcell Scholarship
The Margaret A. Purcell Scholarship is named for Margaret A. Purcell, Ph.D., Alpha Gamma-University of Alabama. Margaret established this scholarship to support Delta Zeta members who may not have had a perfect start in college but have shown determination and resilience by significantly improving their academic performance. A lifelong believer in the values of friendship, community and second chances, Margaret was inspired to create this scholarship to recognize those who demonstrate growth and perseverance.
As a former Foundation President and Achoth Award recipient, Margaret has remained deeply connected to Delta Zeta beyond her collegiate years. She describes the Delta Zeta sisterhood as welcoming and empowering and credits the Creed as one of her greatest guides through life. Margaret hopes that recipients of this scholarship feel encouraged to start fresh, lean on their sisters, and embrace every opportunity for change and growth. Through this fund, she aims to ensure that women who might have once doubted themselves feel supported, uplifted and inspired by the strength of their Delta Zeta community.
Eligibility and Preferences:
The scholarship is awarded to undergraduate Delta Zeta members who have demonstrated significant academic improvement in their GPA over time. If no applicants meet this preference, the scholarship may be awarded to any Delta Zeta member as determined by the Foundation Scholarship Committee. Scholarships may be used for tuition, fees or textbook costs.
Donna Reifschneider Scholarship
Donna Reifschneider Scholarship
The Donna Reifschneider Scholarship is named for Donna Reifschneider, an alumnae initiate of the Iota Upsilon Chapter at California State University/Fullerton.
Eligibility and Preferences:
This scholarship is awarded to a Delta Zeta undergraduate or graduate in good standing who is pursuing a degree in music, music education, theater arts or closely allied field with preference given to members from the Iota Upsilon Chapter, California State University/Fullerton, or the Iota Iota Chapter, Middle Tennessee State University.
Dorothy Worden Ronken Scholarship
Dorothy Worden Ronken Scholarship
The Dorothy Worden Ronken Scholarship is named in honor of Dorothy Worden Ronken, Alpha Alpha-Northwestern University (IL), who was initiated into Delta Zeta in 1946. A proud and lifelong member, Dorothy was recognized with both the Golden Rose Award and Order of the Pearl, reflecting her deep and sustained commitment to the Sorority throughout her life.
Dorothy's generous spirit and dedication to Delta Zeta have left a legacy. Through this scholarship, she hoped to inspire and assist members in achieving their goals while feeling the continued encouragement of their sisterhood.
Eligibility and Preferences:
This scholarship will be awarded to a Delta Zeta member pursuing a graduate degree in education or business. It is intended to assist with the cost of academic books. Preference will be given to applicants from the Alpha Alpha Chapter at Northwestern University.
Charlotte Silversteen Scholarship
Charlotte Silversteen Scholarship
The Charlotte Silversteen Scholarship is named in honor of Charlotte Fields Silversteen, Delta Tau-Temple University (PA). As a student at a primarily commuter campus, Charlotte found it challenging at first to feel connected. It was through Delta Zeta that she found her place, forming lasting friendships and becoming deeply involved in campus life. This connection sparked a lifetime of service and leadership within the Sorority.
Charlotte’s impact on Delta Zeta spans decades. A Distinguished Past National Officer, she served in many leadership roles including Province Area Director, Financial Advisor, Regional Financial Advisor, National Chapter Advisor, Alumnae Chapter President and National Vice President of Alumnae Affairs. Her dedication earned her both the Achoth Award in 2006 and the Golden Rose Award in 2015, two notable honors bestowed upon a Delta Zeta.
This scholarship was established to honor Charlotte’s lifelong commitment to empowering women in education. It supports Delta Zeta members who are pursuing a graduate degree in education, reflecting Charlotte’s belief in the power of learning and mentorship. Through this scholarship, her legacy continues to inspire and uplift sisters who, like her, seek to make a meaningful difference in the world.
Eligibility and Preferences:
This scholarship is open to Delta Zeta members pursuing a graduate degree in education. Preference is given to applicants who are alumnae.
Elizabeth Coulter Stephenson Grant
Elizabeth Coulter Stephenson Grant
The Elizabeth Coulter Stephenson Grant is named for Elizabeth "Bess" Coulter Stephenson, Alpha-Miami University (OH), the first new member of Delta Zeta and a devoted leader throughout her life. As a graduate student at Cornell, she helped establish the Beta Chapter and later served as Delta Zeta’s second National President from 1912 to 1916. Her lifelong dedication to the Sorority was honored with the prestigious Order of the Laurel Award.
Bess believed that “organized effort, all working together is what helps the world along faster.” This grant, created in her name, reflects those values by offering emergency financial assistance to collegiate sisters facing unexpected hardships that could impact their ability to remain in school or continue their membership.
Funded by collegiate support fees and alumnae donations, the grant stands as a testament to Delta Zeta’s commitment to compassion, sisterhood and support during difficult times.
Eligibility and Preferences:
This grant is awarded to Delta Zeta collegiate members in their junior or senior year who are experiencing significant financial hardship. The grant is intended for emergency support, particularly to assist with Sorority-related expenses. Recipients must be in good standing with the Sorority.
Thornberg/Havens Scholarship
Thornberg/Havens Scholarship
The Thornberg/Havens Scholarship honors the legacy of two remarkable Delta Zeta sisters whose dedication to education, leadership and sisterhood continues to impact generations.
Geneva Thornberg, a member of the Iota Chapter at the University of Iowa, worked for many years in Chicago as a statistician with the Railroad Retirement Association. A proud Delta Zeta, Geneva believed in giving back to the sisterhood that shaped her life. Upon her passing in 1985, she generously left half of her estate to Delta Zeta, ensuring that her commitment to empowering women would live on.
Marguerite Wherry Havens, of the Beta Kappa Chapter at Iowa State University, left a lasting mark on Delta Zeta through her leadership and service. She served as Extension Vice President from 1944 to 1950 and was elected National Secretary in 1950. Just two years later, she became the Fraternity’s first College Chapter Administrator, a role in which she led expansion efforts, developed leadership training and directed college programs until her retirement in 1968. Marguerite was instrumental in founding and teaching Delta Zeta’s first Regional Leadership School in 1962. This scholarship was established in her memory by the Des Moines Alumnae Chapter as a tribute to her enduring impact.
Eligibility and Preferences:
This scholarship will be awarded to an initiated, active, continuing member of Delta Zeta who demonstrates financial need.
Cindy Stockdale White Scholarship
Cindy Stockdale White Scholarship
The Cindy Stockdale White Scholarship was started by Cynthia “Cindy” Stockdale White, Zeta Psi-Stephen F. Austin State University (TX). Cindy served as College Chapter Director for the Iota Iota Chapter at Middle Tennessee State University.
Eligibility and Preferences:
This scholarship is awarded to Delta Zeta members in good standing with a minimum 3.0 GPA attending a public university and obtaining a degree in the field of early childhood education (pre-kindergarten through third grade). If no applicants meet this preference, the scholarship may be awarded to an undergraduate student obtaining a degree in elementary education, followed by an undergraduate obtaining a degree in education (any level). Should no candidates meet any of the preferential criteria, the scholarship may be given to any Delta Zeta who meets the minimum requirements. Scholarships may be used (but are not limited) to support tuition, fees or textbooks costs.