Ruth Taylor Scholarships Awarded to Two Westchester Residents

United Way of Westchester and Putnam announced the awarding of scholarships collectively totaling $10,000 from its Ruth Taylor Scholarship Fund to two Westchester graduate students pursuing master’s degrees in social work.

The two recipients are Melissa Rosado, 39, of New Rochelle; and Stephanie Lopez, 23, of Mamaroneck (pictured above). 

“Receiving the Ruth Taylor Scholarship is an honor,” said Rosado. “It acknowledges my hard work and dedication and provides the financial support I need to fully focus on my studies. I am very grateful to the UWWP.” 

Rosado and Lopez are earning their master’s degrees in social work from Columbia University and Boston College, respectively.

“These individuals are excellent choices for this scholarship,” United Way Chief Impact Officer Faith Ann Butcher said. “It truly benefits everyone to have people as dedicated as them to reach their full potential, and if we can help along the way with a scholarship, we are happy to do it. We can’t wait to see each of them continue to thrive.”  

The fund was established in tribute to Ruth Taylor upon her retirement as Westchester County’s Commissioner of Public Welfare, recognizing her nearly four decades of outstanding service. United Way of Westchester and Putnam, Westchester County Government, and the Urban League of Westchester County sponsor the annual awards. Applicants must be residents of Westchester County and enrolled in graduate studies in Social Work or Public Health on a full-time basis. 

Since 2008, United Way has awarded a collective total of $226,000 to 79 graduate students through the Ruth Taylor Scholarship Fund.