Our History
Serving Children and Families in Baltimore City since 2012!
2006
Origins of WEA
WEA’s predecessor, the Women’s Alliance, started in 2006 through the impetus and generosity of Mary Catherine Bunting, a long-time advocate of equality in education in Baltimore. Ms. Bunting facilitated a $300,000 challenge match to Partners in Excellence, a Baltimore archdiocesan program providing scholarships to marginalized children in the inner city. The challenge was completed, and $1,000 scholarships were awarded to qualified 4th grade students from 2006 through 2011.
2012
WEA is Formed
In 2012, Women’s Education Alliance (WEA) was formed by a group of 20 women of varying age, race and religion with a mixture of backgrounds: employed, retired, educators, business leaders, mothers, grandmothers, community advocates, volunteers, philanthropists, married and single. Sharing a singular vision to encourage and support underserved children in Baltimore City in the form of time, abundance and talent, this leadership forged the following mission:
“Women’s Education Alliance (WEA) assists in the education and formation of qualified Pre-K through12th grade students by providing scholarships to Catholic Community Schools serving economically disadvantaged families in Baltimore City. In addition to a quality academic education, WEA also provides school support services which enhance each student’s total learning experience on a cultural, spiritual, physical and social level.”
2015
WEA Becomes Independent
In 2015, WEA became fully independent and applied for and was granted 501(c)(3) status as a non-profit organization. WEA continued to be 100% volunteer driven. A Board of Directors was formed, Officers were elected, and an increased supportive foundation was ready to respond to offering more opportunities to benefit the children and the Baltimore Partner Schools.
WEA’s work grew exponentially because the needs were many and critical to achieve the best outcomes for the children. Scholarships were expanded for every grade including Pre-K where research shows that stronger bonding and involvement promote greater achievement and engagement from an early age. A Scholarship Preservation Program (SPP) was established in which students were assigned to willing scholarship sponsors for five years at various funding levels to ensure consistent and continued support for a child’s educational path. In 2017, the term of the award for SPP students was lengthened and sponsors were requested to provide scholarships through the 8th grade and, upon graduation, be assigned a new student.
Likewise, One-Time Scholarships were also critical to open doors for children waiting to enter our Partner Schools. Once enrolled, these students could become eligible for an SPP sponsor.
While academics were unquestionably the No. 1 priority, in 2012, WEA embarked on an expansion program to provide a miriad of School Services needed for each child to keep pace with the growing and even more competitive educational process. Thus, WEA began to search for additional funding to further improve children’s lives.
In 2019, WEA established a High School Scholarship initiative (Grades 9-12) to offer another level of continuity in the most challenging school years. These annual $5,000 scholarship awards will be allocated to the highest achievers with the greatest financial need.
Notable WEA events
Dive into a tapestry of impact with our Notable Events. From inclusive donor gatherings to lively student encounters, each event contributes to the chapters of our shared story. Join us in crafting enduring memories and making a meaningful difference within the vibrant learning communities of our partner schools.
WEA Today and Into the Future
Looking ahead, the Women’s Education Alliance remains steadfast in its mission to elevate the life trajectories of underserved children. Our commitment to fostering educational excellence, complemented by holistic cultural, social, spiritual, and physical enrichment, remains unwavering. As we embrace the future, we’re not only investing in students’ education but also in cultivating their agency and accountability. Through data talks and goal setting, we empower students to take charge of their learning journey, ensuring their success transcends the classroom. At the core of our vision is the principle that every child deserves equal access to an exceptional, well-rounded education that empowers them to achieve their potential and contribute to society. WEA is a dedicated partner in this transformative process, fortifying the foundation for a brighter future and stronger communities.