“It was here that I became what I am today. From heartache to the determination that I wanted to work hard to make not only my family, school and country proud, but to be a good role model for young African women.”—2010 MMMF scholarship applicant from Zimbabwe

After its successful Fall Fair, the Margaret McNamara Memorial Fund (MMMF) and its Board thanks all volunteers involved in raising over $50,000 to be applied toward the goal of the foundation. It was truly a team effort which drew on the talents of many from WBFN and shoppers from across the area. Volunteers were recognized at a luncheon at the home of Caroline Berney, MMMF President in December.

In its November meeting, the MMMF heard a presentation of the finalists from Africa for the 2010 MMMF Overseas Project scholarships by Elna van Greuning in Washington and, via video conference, with Melanie Jaya and Shirley Faragher in South Africa. The presentation video conference was attended by special guest Kathleen McNamara, daughter of Margaret McNamara. Six recipient finalists were selected: one each from Ghana, Ethiopia, Lesotho, and South Africa; and two from Zimbabwe. Upon completion of the acceptance process, they will be awarded grants of $4000 each to be used to further their studies in this academic year at the University of Pretoria or the University of Cape Town.

Friends of the MMMF sent their special funds appeal to previous donors and are receiving generous donations from numerous former and current Bank staff. Monies raised will be used to support the MMMF scholarships both in the United States/Canada and the Overseas Project.

Applications are available online at www.mmmf-grants.org for the current selection round for the U.S./Canada universities. Applications will be accepted until February 18, 2010 from individuals meeting the qualifications and restrictions given online. Those selected will come to Washington in May to present their academic and personal interests and aspirations.

This entire application and selection process is only possible due to the extraordinary dedication and leadership shown by many from WBFN and Bank staff and retirees, who devote countless hours to completing the review rounds.

Your efforts, and those of the Fair volunteers, and countless donors enable those selected as MMMF recipients to fulfill their aspirations to be role models.

Sarah Brau