The GEM Fund (Gaining Educational Momentum) was established by members of the Asheville branch of the American Association of University Women. Two(2) awards are program-specific(Accounting and Culinary Arts); the other awards will be made to any female student who meets the federal guidelines for independence and is enrolled in any curriculum program with a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Preference is given to students who have experienced barriers and at least a one-year delay since graduating from high school (or equivalent) or at least a one-year interruption in their undergraduate education.
The Asheville branch of AAUW traces its history from 1915 when sixteen local women college graduates organized what would locally become AAUW Asheville. Its work in Asheville has been ongoing and influential in the community, nation, and world assisting women through such related projects as refugee relief and improvement of public schools. AAUW advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research.