2026 CWIL Academic Scholarship Winner - Melanese Benjamin
Melanese is pursuing a degree in Biomedical Science. She shared that her goal is to use her education to address health disparities, improve access to healthcare knowledge, and serve as a positive role model for African American students pursuing careers in science and medicine.
The Charleston Woman's Improvement League, Inc. proudly awarded Melanese Benjamin the 2026 Academic Scholarship in the amount of $1,000 in recognition of her academic excellence, hard work, and dedication.
2025 CWIL Academic Scholarship Winner
UPDATE ON CWIL SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
Samantha King
Congratulations to Samantha King, the 2014 recipient of the CWIL 4-year scholarship from South Charleston High School! Samantha received $ 1,000 from CWIL each year of her four years at West Virginia University, graduating in 2018 with a BA in Public Health and Sociology. She furthered her education at East Tennessee State University, earning a Master’s in Public Health/Epidemiology and graduating in 2023.
Cynara and Shayla Clark
Congratulations to Cynara Clark and Shayla Clark, who have both graduated from college! Shayla was the recipient of our $1,000.00 2018 CWIL College Academic Scholarship, and her sister, Cynara, was awarded our $1,000.00 Thelma McDaniel Technical Scholarship. Both ladies are now working as nurses.
Carmilla Spillman, LPN
The Charleston Woman's Improvement League, Inc. proudly recognizes Carmilla Spillman, recipient of the 2024 Thelma McDaniel Technical Scholarship in the amount of $500.
A graduate of Ben Franklin Career and Technical College, Carmilla shared that the scholarship helped expand her career opportunities, including travel nursing, where she gained valuable experience and strengthened her skills as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). She plans to continue her education to become a Registered Nurse (RN).
Congratulations, Carmilla! We are proud of your accomplishments and wish you continued success.