CATHERINE WILLIAMS graduated as valedictorian from North High School in 1932 but could not afford to go directly to college. She found a job as a stenographer at Polk County Welfare and quickly scaled the ranks. She simultaneously attended college, earning degrees in psychology and sociology. She later served as Deputy Commissioner of the Iowa Department of Social Services. At this point, Catherine became the highest-ranking African American female in State Government. Catherine has received numerous awards and honors. At the time of her death in May 2020, she was a 60-year member of Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority Inc. Des Moines Alumnae Chapter.

Criteria is as follows: A student who meets must these qualifications:

If you are a graduating senior from a Des Moines Public High School or a non-traditional student you are eligible to apply for this scholarship. To be considered, you MUST do all of the following: 

1. Graduating high school senior and/or enrolled non-traditional student at a two-or-four-year college, university, or trade school.

2. Enrolled full-time/part-time or accepted to a college, university, or certification/credential program.

3. Applicants must have a grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 system or its equivalent from your most recent transcript. 

4. Submit an OFFICIAL copy of your high school or college transcript from the registrar.  Copies WILL NOT be accepted if they state: “Issued to the student.”

5. Submit two letters of recommendation from teachers, counselors, or professionals outlining your past and/or current civic activities that demonstrate cultural awareness, cultural humility, diversity, inclusion and belonging.

6. Applicants should pursue a degree and/or certification in one of the following fields of study: Human Services, Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, Sociology, Education or Health.

7. Submit a one page essay outlining how you see yourself as a catalyst for change both as a student and future leader in the field of study. The letter should be typed using Times New Roman Font & 12-point font.

8. Submit a recent photograph along with a written consent to publish your picture if you receive an award.

9. Award amount will depend on financial need, and type of degree or credentialing program, (Certification, Associates, Bachelors, Masters, Doctorate)

NOTE:  If you submit your application via mail, please mail your one-page letter, transcript, and letters of reference to the address listed below. You will receive a confirmation email once all parts of your application are received.

Des Moines Alumnae Chapter

Scholarship Committee

Attn: Debra Carr

P.O. Box 4706

Des Moines, IA 50305

The application packet must be submitted online or postmarked on or before April 18, 2025

For additional information, contact Debra Carr at dstdsm@gmail.com

 

Education History 

College Plans

Name of institution(s) to which you are applying, applied or are attending.

Employment Information (if employed)

Name of other financial assistance for which you have made application

 

Family Financial Assistance:

Please list names and addresses of two (2) references

Teacher, Counselor, Professor, Professional or Community (cannot be related to the applicant) outlining your past and/or current civic activities that demonstrate cultural awareness, cultural humility, diversity, inclusion and belonging.

Reference #1

Reference #2

One page letter

The one-page letter should outline how you see yourself as a catalyst for change both as a student and future leader in the field of study. The letter should be typed using Times New Roman Font & 12-point font.

Application Check-List

Completed applications must be submitted online or postmarked by April 18, 2025.

Contact Debra Carr at dstdsm@gmail.com if you have not received a confirmation email one (1) week after submitting your complete application.

NOTE: Incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Thank you for your interest in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority’s Catherine Gayle Williams Scholarship