2026 AAUW Scholarship Recipients: Eva Olson, Hani Bashir and Cloe Brown. (AAUW)
Fergus Falls, MN – The Fergus Falls branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) has chosen three local women to receive its 2026 Education scholarships, and they were honored at a banquet on April 20.
The first recipient, Eva Olson, is a motivated young woman with a passion for agriculture, giving back to the community and life long learning. She has earned multiple awards through 4-H and FFA, including the FFA State Degree. While active in these clubs, Eva has led workshops on animal welfare, coordinated fundraisers, advocated for youth and competed in multiple events all the while building skills in leadership, public speaking and project management. After graduating from Ashby Public High School, she plans to pursue a degree in animal science at the University of Minnesota – Crookston, with the goal of becoming a large animal veterinarian who will serve in a rural community.
The second recipient is Hani Bashir who will be graduating from Pelican Rapids Public High School then plans to attend North Dakota State University to pursue a double major in business and accounting. Hani has a passion for serving others especially the most vulnerable in our community. In addition to being a student, she works at the Pelican Valley Nursing Home as a CNA and is an enlisted member of the National Guard. She states that “leadership is not just about having a title, but about being dependable and respectful. Small actions, like being prepared, listening carefully, and helping others stay organized, can make a big difference.” Hani is a confident young leader who successfully manages multiple responsibilities while caring for others.
Fergus Falls AAUW awarded the Georgia Nagatomo Dieseth scholarship, which is to go to recipients interested in art and lifelong learning, to Cloe Brown who will be graduating from Fergus Falls High School then going on to study architecture at North Dakota State University. Art allows Cloe to “understand and connect with the world…in ways that go beyond language.” She states, “art encourages creativity, empathy and new ways of thinking.” Cloe lives her philosophy on leadership by being responsible person others can rely on. In addition to volunteering as a set designer at her school, she interns at Fergus Home & Hardware Store under the supervision of an interior designer and is a baker for Peney Cakes. As stated on her letter of recommendation, “she is an organized, mature and respectful young woman who approaches her responsibilities with determination and integrity.” Cloe is admired for her perseverance and carrying on family values of responsibility and hard work.
Fergus Falls AAUW says that each of these young women have demonstrated a commitment not only for academic success but also for serving others and leading beyond the classroom.
AAUW hosts a Tour of Homes every other year to fund the $2,000 scholarships. The objectives of AAUW are to advance equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, and research.
Story courtesy of Fergus Falls AAUW.
FOLLOW US FOR INSTANT UPDATES!
