Gov. Glenn Youngkin, First Lady Suzanne S. Youngkin and the Virginia Council on Women have announced the 13th Annual Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics and Healthcare (STEAM-H) essay contest. The contest is open to female high school seniors who plan to pursue a STEAM-H career at a community college, four-year college or university, trade or technical school, online or through certificated STEAM-H courses.

One merit-based and one need-based scholarship will be awarded in each of the five geographic regions across Virginia. Merit-based scholarships require a minimum 3.0 GPA and will be awarded based on essay quality. Need-based scholarships require a minimum 2.5 GPA and will be awarded based on financial need and essay quality.

Essays will be judged by a panel of council members and individuals who represent STEAM-H fields. The application deadline is Monday, April 1, at 11:59 p.m. Winners will be notified in late April and the scholarship awards will be presented in the spring. Award amounts are determined by the council annually and may vary.

In 2012, the Virginia Council on Women held the first STEM essay contest to award scholarships to high school students with interests in STEM careers. The STEM essay contest expanded to the STEAM-H essay contest to encompass more career opportunities for women. The Council has awarded over $150,000 in scholarships since its inception.

“These scholarships are important investments into the futures of women seeking a career in science, technology, engineering, arts, mathematics and healthcare fields. The First Lady and I cannot be more excited for these Virginians’ bright futures as they progress in their careers and develop as leaders,” Gov. Youngkin said.

For more guidelines and to apply for the essay contest, visit

www.women.virginia.gov/steamh-essay-contest.