Weston Back Yard Beekeepers Open Applications for Scholarship Fund

WESTON, CT — The Back Yard Beekeepers Association has announced the fourth year of the Jeff Shwartz “Be Educated in Entomology Scholarship Fund,” aimed at supporting educational opportunities that promote understanding of bees and the natural world. The scholarship honors the memory of Jeff Shwartz, a respected Weston beekeeper and educator who dedicated much of his life to teaching people of all ages about honey bees and other insects.

The annual scholarship, currently offering up to $500, is open to applicants of all ages with an interest in environmental education and improving conditions for living creatures. Funds may be used for tuition, classes, books, research, transportation, and other related expenses. Past recipients include middle school, high school, and college students who have used the funds to pursue projects ranging from animal rescue visits to college tuition.

Applications for the 2025 scholarship must be submitted by August 15 via email to jeffshwartzfund@backyardbeekeepers.com. Applicants are required to submit a 500-word essay describing their planned educational experience, how it will benefit the environment, and how the scholarship will help achieve those goals. The essay must include contact information and the requested scholarship amount.

Becky Newman of the Back Yard Beekeepers Association said, “I am so happy to see that Jeff’s memory lives on and that his scholarship is helping people do many different things.”