Streator woman receives grant from P.E.O. program to pursue degree in nursing

Shannon Vincent of Streator was awarded a P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education scholarship.

The P.E.O. Program for Continuing Education was established in 1973 to provide needs-based grants to women in the U.S. and Canada whose education has been interrupted and who find it necessary to return to school to complete a degree or certification that will improve their marketable skills for employment to support themselves and/or families.

Vincent is pursuing an associate degree in nursing. She received her certification as assistant in 2017 as a stepping stone to reach her ultimate career goal of being a registered nurse.

The Philanthropic Educational Organization has been celebrating women helping women reach for the stars for more than 155 years. Since its inception in 1869, the nonprofit organization has helped more than 125,000 women pursue educational goals by providing about $432 million in grants, scholarships, awards and loans.

The P.E.O. Sisterhood also owns and supports Cottey College. Through membership, the P.E.O. Sisterhood has brought together more than a half-million women in the U.S. and Canada who are passionate about helping women advance through education while supporting and motivating them. In addition to the educational philanthropies, the P.E.O. Sisterhood provides a framework of support and community for all members.

What started with a bond of friendship among seven women in Mount Pleasant, Iowa, is now one of the oldest women’s organizations in North America with close to 5,500 chapters. To learn more about P.E.O. and its powerful educational philanthropies and see stories of women who have benefited from the programs, visit peointernational.org.