Naples Woman’s Club Awarded $362,000 in Scholarships to 48 Deserving Collier County Students
May 22, 2025
The Naples Woman’s Club (NWC) proudly announces the award of $362,000 in scholarships to 48 outstanding Collier County students—the largest single-year amount in the Club’s 90-year history.
Established in 1954 with a single scholarship for a nursing student, the NWC scholarship program has grown tremendously. This year’s recipients will pursue degrees in architecture, neuroscience, pre-law, occupational therapy, banking, and other high-impact fields. Scholarships were awarded not only to graduating high school seniors but also to mature women returning to school and continuing college students pursuing their dreams.
“Our program is built to uplift individuals from all walks of life,” said Kimberley Schumacker, Chair of the Education Committee. “The looks on the students’ and families’ faces, the inspiring stories shared, and the deep gratitude expressed—this is what all our hard work has been about. It was absolutely priceless.”
Many of the scholarships honor past and present club members. The Jackie Pierce Leadership Scholarship was awarded to Julia Jurca, a biochemistry major, who said, “I hope to make you proud.” The Lee Kraus Empowering Women Scholarship went to Reyna Manor, a working mother of two who will begin nursing school this fall. Other recipients include Emiliana Aguilera, who will study biology at Georgetown University; Erick Tovar, a continuing student and budding entrepreneur; and Abigail Young, who is headed to Nashville to pursue a degree in musical theater.
Scholarship recipients were honored at a special reception hosted by the Naples Woman’s Club. Many students, including first-generation college attendees, celebrated with their families. Naples Mayor Theresa Heitmann joined the event to personally congratulate the students and honor their achievements.
A Legacy of Service and Impact
Founded in 1932, the Naples Woman’s Club is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering individuals and families through education, philanthropy, and service. From providing milk to undernourished children during the depression, to starting Naples’ first public library and helping to launch Youth Haven, the Club has been a cornerstone of the community for nearly a century. Today, NWC members continue that legacy through hands-on volunteerism and generous fundraising. To date, the Club has contributed more than $4 million in scholarships, grants, and community support across Collier County.
Photos Below:
1-Emiliana Aguilera with her mother
2-Julia Jurca, and family, winner of the Jacky Pearce memorial scholarship
3-Emiliana Aguilera receiving her award from NWC member Liz Becton
4-Erick Tovar receiving his award from Blanche Hawkins
5&6- Reyna Manor, Lee Kraus, receiving the Lee Kraus Empowering Women Scholarship
7-Abigail Young, Barbara Weiss
8-Mayor Heitman talking to students and families
9-NWC members: Nancy Geyer, Linda Martin, Lee Kraus, Carolyn Kovach, Nancy Quinter, Jane McCormick, Patricia Sagman
10-Kimberley Schumacker, Education Committee Co-Chair
