Applications are now closed.
Ellen Bell was a talented and creative individual who made a difference in the lives of those who knew her. Ellen is lovingly remembered for her boundless energy, intelligence, kindness, and willingness to commit herself to the betterment of her community. She was a passionate volunteer with the Y during her lifetime and led a successful career in the marketing and advertising industry.
To share Ellen's legacy with the communities she loved, Ellen's friends and family created an annual scholarship in her honour. Valued at $5,000+, the scholarship supports women pursuing a similar career path who embody her values.
Thank you to all who applied. Shortlisted candidates will be notified in early March.
TIMELINE
Dec. 2024: Application period opens.
Feb. 14, 2025: Application window closes at 12 p.m. PST. Early applications encouraged!
Mid-March 2025: Candidate interviews via Zoom with Scholarship Committee.
Late March 2025: Scholarship recipient selected.
Spring 2025: Scholarship funds and plaque awarded.
ELIGIBILITY
The ideal applicant:
- Self-identifies as a woman.
- Embodies the values of Ellen Bell.
- Is currently enrolled in a related post-secondary program (eg. marketing/business).
- Resides in the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley or Vancouver Island community.
- Plans to pursue a career in Marketing/Advertising in one of the geographic areas listed following graduation.
PROCESS
- Consider how your values and career aspirations reflect Ellen Bell's spirit.
- Submit your online application
- Email two (2) letters of reference** to giving@bc.ymca.ca on or before Feb. 14.
**Letters of reference should be 300 to 500 words and clearly address the applicant's:
- Personal characteristics, including kindness, community spirit, etc.
- Relevant skills, experience and career potential in the fields of marketing and/or advertising.
- Connection to the communities of the Lower Mainland, Fraser Valley and/or Vancouver Island.
2026 applications will open December 2025.
Meet our 2024 scholarship recipient!
Sofia Napolitano, a fifth-year business administration student at Simon Fraser University and a management consulting summer intern at KPMG, was selected as the recipient of our 2024 Ellen Bell YMCA Memorial Scholarship.
"I'm inspired that they saw something in me that reminded them of Ellen."