The Back Yard Beekeepers Association is accepting applications for the fifth annual Jeff Shwartz “Be Educated in Entomology Scholarship Fund,” which provides up to $500 to support educational experiences that expand knowledge of the natural world while benefiting people, pollinators and other living things.
The scholarship honors the legacy of Jeff Shwartz, a longtime beekeeper, educator, mentor and community volunteer who was an active member of the Weston-based association. Shwartz dedicated much of his life to teaching children and adults about honeybees and other insects through demonstrations at schools, fairs and farms. He encouraged curiosity about pollinators and believed all living things deserved care and protection.
Since its creation, the scholarship has supported recipients ranging from middle school students to adults pursuing educational opportunities. Awards have helped fund college tuition, educational programs, research projects and transportation for volunteer work at an animal rescue.
Last year’s recipients demonstrated the scholarship’s broad impact. A recipient from North Carolina attended a major beekeeping conference, then returned home with educational materials and new knowledge that she incorporated into programs offered through her local beekeeping association. Another recipient used the funding to develop bee-centered hive designs intended to improve honey bee health while promoting biodiversity, food security and sustainable practices for farmers and beekeepers.
“I am so happy to see Jeff’s legacy continuing,” said Becky Newman of the Back Yard Beekeepers Association. “Last year, we received applications from around the world that reflected Jeff’s character and beliefs. I look forward to spreading more love into the world.”
The scholarship is awarded annually and currently provides up to $500. Funding may be used for tuition, classes, books, registration fees, educational materials, research projects and transportation related to the proposed educational experience.
Applicants should demonstrate an interest in helping both their fellow earthlings and the natural world. There is no age limit.
To apply, candidates must submit a 500-word essay describing the educational experience they plan to pursue, how it will benefit fellow earthlings and how the scholarship will help them achieve those goals.
Applications should also include the applicant’s name, mailing address, email address, phone number, the amount requested and details about the proposed educational experience. Applicants should include a website for the program or experience when available.
Applications will be reviewed by the Back Yard Beekeepers Association Charitable Giving Committee. The deadline to apply is July 31, 2026.
Applications should be emailed to jeffshwartzfund@backyardbeekeepers.com. For more information visit the Backyard Beekeepers website.
