1. Plan to enter math, science, or related fields of teaching.
2. Plan to enter other fields in which teachers are in short supply
3. Belong to underrepresented groups who will contribute to diversity in the classroom for the level and subject they intend to teach.
4. Can be identified as strivers or overachieving students (e.g. the SAT or ACT designation for those with above average scores).

You must have a SAT or ACT score listed in your application.

This scholarship honors the dedication and contributions to society made by Bonnie J. Steller and Paula R. Knepper, alumni of the College of Education. They believed that knowledge is advanced by education. Therefore, the purpose of this scholarship is to encourage outstanding scholars to enter teaching, primarily in the fields lacking full diversity and/or with a shortage of qualified teachers, and to contribute to research that will enhance teaching and learning. Recipients shall be admitted students in the College of Education with a minimum 3.2 GPA. Applicants must submit an essay describing why they want to enter their chosen field and how they hope to enhance the field of education they have chosen. The essay must be grammatically correct, clear, focused, well organized, thoughtful, and in good English in order to be considered. Preference will be given to students who plan to enter math, science, or a related field or plan to enter a field in which teachers are in short supply. Preference will given to students from underrepresented groups who will contribute to the diversity in the classroom and to students identified as strivers or overachieving students.