The Idie Ulsh Young Naturalist Scholarship Program is named after the Washington Butterfly Association founder Idie Ulsh. After she passed away in 2015 her family approached WBA wanting to work with us to put together a program geared towards children. A program that would educate children about our natural world, encourage their interest in natural history and foster passion for the outdoors. The final decision was up to three scholarships would be awarded to qualifying kids, ages 10 to 17 years old, to attend our annual conference (Weekend with Butterflies). Weekend expenses for registration fees, two nights lodging, Program Night meal, and round-trip mileage from home to the conference venue will be provided to each scholarship winner and an accompanying parent or guardian. This is a chance to enjoy butterflies with people who know and appreciate them. A Great Scholarship that we hope will inspire future conservation from these young people.
” Teaching children about the natural world should be seen as one of the most important events in their lives”. – Thomas Berry.
The Scholarship Committee hereby issues a call to action for all WBA members. Let’s ensure that we have a good selection of candidates by getting the word out about WBAs truly amazing Scholarship program! It’s easy! Click on the link below and print a few posters. Talk with your librarian, the secretary at your local elementary school, middle school or high school. Maybe even talk to their science teacher about displaying this poster. See if you can show off our Scholarships Poster at your Community Center. How about talking with your kids (or grandkids) Scout Master, etc. to pass the word on to families with eligible children. Share it with your friends, families and neighbors. Keep in mind that we want to get the poster displayed quickly so interested children have time to meet the annual deadline.
WBA and the Ulsh Family have created a great Scholarship program to offer our communities’ 10 -17-year-old Nature lovers. It is exactly what Idie would love to see. Let’s get the word out to children on how to become an Idie Ulsh Young Naturalist Scholarship winner!