The Ole Miss Women's Council for Philanthropy accepts support from individuals, corporations and foundations to create scholarships for high school seniors who have shown leadership abilities, as well as caring spirits and the willingness to help others.

Women's Council scholarships of $4,000 per year go to six students (men and women) to attend Ole Miss. Throughout their college careers, the students receive guidance from Women's Council mentors, who assist them in developing career paths and networking with alumni and other professionals. The students also meet regularly for small group discussions and attend seminars sponsored by the Lott Leadership Institute, using the philosophy of servant leadership as the core curriculum.

There are several ways to contribute to the Women's Council scholarship program. The goal of the Council is to develop endowments of $100,000 each. Donations are accepted until a fund reaches this level. At that time, the Council names an endowed scholarship in honor of a woman who personifies the spirit of both leadership and giving.

Another avenue of support is a gift of $100,000, which allows the donor to name the scholarship after a woman in his/her life. It can be an individual gift or one where family members, friends and associates, businesses or corporations, or other affinity groups can combine contributions to create a scholarship fund. The pledged amount can be paid over a period of time.

An additional way to contribute to the scholarship fund is through estate planning with The University of Mississippi Foundation. Through this program, gifts can be deferred, such as a bequest or a life-income plan.

For more information about the Ole Miss Women's Council for Philanthropy or the Council Scholarship Endowment Program, please contact The University of Mississippi Foundation at (622) 915-5944 or (800) 340-9542 or go to http://www.umf.olemiss.edu/.