Iowa Woman Wins Scholarship to Study Nonprofit Leadership

A full-time disaster relief director is getting support to expand her impact even further.

Danille Curtis of Gowrie, Iowa, received a $500 scholarship from P.E.O. Chapter CZ to pursue her master's degree in philanthropy and nonprofit development at the University of Northern Iowa. Curtis works as Iowa director for Midwest Mission in Jefferson, an organization that provides disaster relief, health services, education, and humanitarian aid to communities globally and locally.

The scholarship will help Curtis balance her demanding full-time role while advancing her education. She plans to use her graduate degree to grow Midwest Mission's reach and deepen the organization's community impact.

P.E.O. Chapter CZ has championed working women since 1990, offering scholarships to local women or those with community connections who continue their education while maintaining careers. The chapter funds these scholarships through creative fundraising, including an annual fall pickleball tournament.

Why This Inspires

Curtis represents a growing trend of professionals seeking advanced education to multiply their positive impact. Instead of choosing between career and education, she's pursuing both to serve more people more effectively.

P.E.O. International supports women's advancement through scholarships, grants, awards, loans, and stewardship of Cottey College. The organization creates pathways for women to achieve their educational goals at every stage of life.

Women interested in applying for the 2026 scholarship can contact Chapter CZ members Marty Hennesy at martygirlia@gmail.com or Jean Van Gilder at jeanvg@netins.net. P.E.O. International also offers additional scholarship opportunities beyond the local chapter awards.

Supporting one woman's education today means strengthening communities around the world tomorrow.