In one of the most unlikely places – the deep South, where tradition reigns supreme and communities are accustomed to men at the helm – The University of Mississippi has taken the lead in recognizing not only the emerging financial power of women but also their unique abilities to lead and mentor.

The Ole Miss Women's Council for Philanthropy was created in 2000 to attract funds for scholarships by tapping into the emerging new paradigm of women taking greater control of their finances. (This year, 52 percent of the nation's wealth is in the hands of women.) It also is providing programs for council scholars that will guide them in their future careers and help with life skills.

The group of woman who were all chosen for their strong leadership skills, commitment, passion and professionalism is diverse, ranging from corporate executives and business owners to community leaders and homemakers.

The council members' lives may differ, but they all have a single goal to enhance the educational experience and provide career opportunities for young people during their tenure at Ole Miss.

Six students receive scholarships of $5,000 per year beginning the 2001 fall semester. Each scholar is assigned mentors from the Ole Miss community many from the council who guide the student in developing a career path, as well as help the scholar network with alumni and other professionals.

Each student also participates in a series of seminars sponsored by the university's Lott Leadership Institute, using the philosophy of servant leadership as the core curriculum. Upon graduation, each scholarship recipient is expected to pledge for the next five years a modest amount of financial support to the women's council endowment to reseed the program.

For more information about the Ole Miss Women's Council for Philanthropy or the council scholarship endowment program, contact The University of Mississippi Foundation at 622- 915-5944 or 800-340-9542.