Undergraduate Student Awards
Each year, the Economics Department offers a variety of scholarships funded through the generosity of our donors. Applications open in the spring, with awards granted for the following academic year. While most scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, some also require a FAFSA application to be on file to be eligible.
Albert L. Bogden Endowed Fund
Albert L. Bogdan spent much of his life helping others learn, first as a University of Washington student and later as a teacher and school district business manager. A 1936 graduate in economics and history, he extended that commitment beyond his lifetime through a gift from his estate that continues to provide scholarship support to undergraduate students in the Department of Economics.
Alberta C. Corkery Scholarship
When Alberta C. Corkery graduated from the University of Washington in 1937, she was the only woman in her class to major in economics—an education she credited with helping shape her life and her ability to contribute to her community. Her scholarship shares that opportunity with the generations who followed, supporting junior Economics majors whose academic achievement and financial need might otherwise make continuing their studies more difficult.
George and Pearl Corkery Memorial Scholarship
Each fall brings a renewed sense of possibility as students return to campus and begin another year at the University of Washington. Created through a gift from Lorraine France as a tribute to her sister, Dorothy, the Dorothy L. France Endowed Scholarship helps students embrace those possibilities by providing support for tuition and other educational expenses.
Dorothy L. France Endowed Scholarship
Each fall brings a renewed sense of possibility as students return to campus and begin another year at the University of Washington. Created through a gift from Lorraine France as a tribute to her sister, Dorothy, the Dorothy L. France Endowed Scholarship helps students embrace those possibilities by providing support for tuition and other educational expenses.
Stan and Cindy Freimuth Scholarship
Stan Freimuth earned his bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington in 1970 and has been active in community service, including serving on the board of Big Brothers of King County. His scholarship provides financial assistance to undergraduate students pursuing a degree in Economics, supporting students as they work toward completing their UW education.
Hellrich-Dawson Study Abroad
The Hellrich-Dawson Award was established in early 2017 by Department of Economics alumnus Robert (Bob) Hellrich-Dawson (BA ’93), primarily to support a student’s study abroad opportunity. Bob and his wife, Lydia, are seasoned travelers and enjoy global experiences. An article about their inspirations to develop this award is linked here.
Clifford G. and Wanda M. Kahl Student Support Fund in Economics
For Clifford and Wanda Kahl, providing their three sons with the opportunity to attend college was a priority, even though neither had the opportunity to pursue a college education themselves. Their son, Kerry, created this fund in their honor, carrying their commitment to education forward by providing financial support to undergraduate students majoring in Economics at the University of Washington.
Agnes C. Nelson Memorial Scholarship
The Agnes C. Nelson Memorial Scholarship was established in 1982 by Elmer E. Nelson in honor of his mother, Agnes C. Nelson, whose strength and dedication helped her support and raise her family on her own. Her legacy continues through scholarships for undergraduate students in Economics and Political Science, providing tuition and educational support based on financial need and academic merit.
G. Dennis Shine Endowed Fund in Economics
The G. Dennis Shine Endowed Fund provides financial assistance to undergraduate and graduate students in the Economics program to help cover the cost of textbooks and other essential educational materials. A graduate in 1960, Mr. G. Dennis Shine believed in the transformative power of higher education and the importance of access to educational resources. Established through his bequest in 2025, this endowed fund provides support for Economics students with financial need, helping ensure that the cost of textbooks and other educational materials does not become a barrier to academic progress.
J. Parker and Evelyn Cruz Sroufe Scholarship
For J. Parker Sroufe and Evelyn Cruz Sroufe, the University of Washington has been an important part of both their education and their continued involvement with the UW community. Created in 1993, their scholarship extends that connection by providing financial support to undergraduate students and encouraging the study of economics.
Rachel M. Storer Memorial
The Rachel M. Storer Memorial was established in 1966 by friends and colleagues to honor Rachel M. Storer, a longtime U.S. Department of Labor civil servant who worked with the National Labor Relations Board in Seattle. Her legacy continues through an annual fellowship or award supporting an advanced undergraduate or graduate student in the Department of Economics with a special interest in labor economics.
Michelle and Stephen Turnovsky Undergraduate Scholarship
This scholarship celebrates Economics honors students who strengthen the department through their leadership, involvement, and commitment to making the educational experience better for their peers. In that same spirit of community and mentorship, it honors Professor Michelle Turnovsky and Dr. Stephen Turnovsky, whose dedication to students and the Department of Economics has enriched generations of the UW Economics community.
Yanlan and Robert Yang Scholarship
Created by UW Economics alumna Olga Yang in honor of her parents, Yanlan and Robert Yang, this fund celebrates their belief in the value of education and the importance of striving to do what is right. Their legacy continues by providing financial support to undergraduate Economics students who might otherwise be unable to complete their education.
Graduate Student Awards
Visit our Graduate Student Financial Assistance page for information on available grants, awards, and employment opportunities.
Additional Resources
The UW has additional resources for students seeking scholarships and financial assistance. The Office of Merit Scholarships, Fellowships, & Awards provides valuable information on the scholarship search and application process. We also recommend that students visit the UW Office of Student Financial Aid for information on ways to help fund your education.