Congratulations to our 2025 Continuing Education Scholarship Winners!
Each of these four students received a $1,250 scholarship for furthering their education.
Learn more about them, including excerpts from their applications, in the July, 2025 issue of VFW Auxiliary Magazine, and more about this scholarship on our website: Continuing Education Scholarship.
BIG 10 CONFERENCE – MCKENZIE DEYO
McKenzie Deyo of Nebraska, a Life Member of VFW Auxiliary 759, is studying nursing, which she describes as “a profession I am deeply passionate about.” She strives to make a positive impact on the life of her patients and says this scholarship will help “Ease the financial burden” of her education. She’ll attend University of Nebraska Medical Center, working toward her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
EASTERN CONFERENCE – KATHRYN DONALDSON
Kathryn Donaldson, the daughter of New Jersey Auxiliary 386 member Marybeth Donaldson, is a first-year Master of Science in Genetic Counseling student. She is currently conducting a research project examining congenital heart defects in twins with the aim of improving early detection. This scholarship will help immensely as the rigorous demands of the program do not allow for full-time employment.
SOUTHERN CONFERENCE – JILL WADDLE
Jill Waddle is a Life Member of Auxiliary 1298 in Kentucky, currently serving as District 5 President. She is a first responder and firefighter seeking her AEMT (Advanced Emergency Medical Technician) Certification. She has also worked as a Medical Assistant for 10 years and views helping others as her calling; she is fully supported in her endeavors by her Chief at the fire department.
WESTERN CONFERENCE – YVONNE APRATO
Yvonne Aprato is a military veteran and a Life Member of Idaho Auxiliary 10082 who has been working as a Veterinary Technician for 20 years, a position that does not require certification in her state, but with the field changing it is likely this will soon be required, as it is in most states. “I love my job,” says Aprato, who will use the scholarship to complete her certification so she can continue to help animals.