Scholarships
The purpose of the Shawnee Chamber is to develop a vibrant economy and attract robust quality of life amenities for Shawnee. We aim to create a diversified local economy and community supported by committed business and civic leaders.
Applications are currently open!
This scholarship fund was started by the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Shawnee Chamber in 1997 in memory of Betty Charlton, who was a strong supporter of providing education assistance to area students.
The Betty Charlton Scholarship Fund awards a $2,000 scholarship to students who live or attend school in Shawnee, and have demonstrated an involvement in community leadership. Each year a portion of the proceeds from the Chamber Annual Dinner auction directly benefits the Betty Charlton Scholarship fund and continues to support future community leadership. Scholarships totaling $50,000 have been awarded to area high school seniors over the last 24 years.
The SEDC Career Ready Scholarship awards a $1,000 scholarship to a student who attends school in or lives in Shawnee and demonstrates a commitment to their chosen trade through previous coursework, apprenticeships, or work experience. The $1,000 scholarship can be used toward tuition, books, or necessary tools, helping recipients take significant steps forward in their training.
The Shawnee Chamber of Commerce Foundation welcomes applicants for its annual Betty Charlton Scholarship award. Applications for the 2025-2026 academic years need to be completed and submitted no later than 5 p.m. Monday, March 23, 2026.
The recipient will be notified prior to May and recognized at the June monthly membership luncheon. For more information regarding criteria, please call the Chamber office at 913.631.6545.
2025 Award Winners
Isabella Guess -Â DeSoto High School
Shubh Patel -Â Mill Valley High School
The Shawnee Economic Development Council Career Ready Scholarship provides financial assistance in the amount of $1000 to graduating Shawnee high school seniors seeking a career in construction or construction trades such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC, carpentry, or other related professions. A successful applicant must identify either trade school where they will continue their education or acceptance of direct employment by a licensed Kansas City metro area contractor (preference given to SEDC members). Applications are due by 5 p.m. Monday, March 23, 2026.Â
Financial award must be used to cover costs related to tuition, books, fees, tools and/or equipment related to the construction industry. Awardees utilizing scholarship funds to prepare for careers in construction will be paired with a SEDC Scholar mentor who will assist with selection of tools and supplies required to be work ready on first day of employment.