The Alliance for Women in Media Foundation has teamed up with Hallmark Media to launch the Make Her Mark Student Scholarship, a new initiative aimed at advancing young women pursuing creative careers in entertainment. The first recipient will be announced during the 50th Annual Gracie Awards Luncheon, taking place on June 18.
The scholarship is part of Hallmark Media’s broader Make Her Mark initiative, which offers on-the-job mentorship to women seeking roles behind the camera. By combining financial aid with direct mentorship, the program is designed to give students not just support but a strong foundation to build a successful creative career.
The Make Her Mark Student Scholarship provides $7,500 to one female student to assist with educational expenses. In addition to the scholarship award, the student will receive mentorship from actor, director, and Hallmark Media creative partner Ashley Williams, who founded the Make Her Mark initiative. Williams will offer personalized guidance to help the recipient take early steps into the industry with support and professional insight.
Eligibility criteria and application instructions are available through the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation website. The scholarship is open to students who demonstrate a passion for storytelling and an interest in working behind the scenes in film or television.
Ashley Williams emphasized the importance of offering not just access but encouragement. “Make Her Mark is about offering education to up-and-coming directors through on-the-job experience. We give these aspiring women their first ‘yes’ and then ensure that during their first opportunity behind the camera, they are supported and set up for success,” she said. “We’re incredibly proud to collaborate with AWM on this scholarship opportunity and to celebrate our shared goal of uplifting and empowering women in media.”
Becky Brooks, president of the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation, highlighted the program’s broader purpose. “This scholarship is more than financial support – it’s a meaningful investment in a student’s creative journey, and a reflection of our mission to ensure every woman with a story to tell has the tools, guidance, and support to tell it.”
The scholarship marks a growing commitment from both organizations to close the gender gap in entertainment production and foster the next generation of female creators.