By Anna Skinner
The City of Westfield partnered with Western Governors University Indiana, an online university, to provide scholarships to those residing in Westfield who will be attending WGU.
The only requirements are to prove the applicant is a resident of Westfield, as well as a student at WGU.
Karen George of Westfield saw the posting and was the first recipient of the $300 scholarship.
“I saw it on Nextdoor, and I just grabbed it. They gave it to me that same week,” George said. “They were ready to go. It was really nice of the city to do that. I haven’t heard of any cities trying to award their residents with this money.”
George will be returning to WGU for her MBA. She plans to start May 1. She’s lived in Westfield for 10 years.
“It’s just great because usually adults don’t get scholarships when they are trying to go back to school while trying to raise families and handle their responsibilities,” George said. “Usually scholarships only go to students going to college for the first time. It was awesome. I think more cities should do this type of thing. It’s $300 less I have to pay, so it’s a win-win.”
There are still scholarships available, and the city urges those interested to contact communications@westfield.in.gov.
“Westfield and WGU Indiana share an innovative spirit that will make this partnership strong and enduring,” stated Mayor Andy Cook. “Putting Westfield residents in touch with high-quality education will increase our collective educational attainment and improve upon quality of life for everyone.”