About Us: Our History

Growing our local community's educational opportunities through generous donations for 85 years

The WCSC was officially organized in Saranac Lake in 1939 to promote educational, civic, and social topics and to help North Country students get a college education.

80+ years later, we continue to be a vibrant group of about 40 women, passionately committed to education. We work with and for our local community in order to promote lifelong learning opportunities. Members also enjoy a warm sense of friendship and camaraderie while working together.

Scholarships are awarded annually to graduating students residing within the Saranac Lake School District, who will be pursuing post secondary college or technical programs.

Continuing Education scholarships are awarded each year to eligible Franklin and Essex County residents, who after an absence from formal education, wish to upgrade their skills through traditional college programs, technical certification, or other career enhancing educational programs.

Scholarships are available to all students, regardless of gender. Graduating students through home-school programs or who live within the Saranac Lake Central School district geographic area but do not attend SLHS are eligible for our High School scholarship as well.

Funds were raised through many bake sales, hot dog sales, raffles and donations.

Learn more about the club's storied history on the Historic Saranac Lake localwiki page and check out our blog's history posts.

A bit about our history:

A look back, our history: 1939-1989

First written by Nancy Phillips in 1989 for the club's 50th Anniversary (edited 2023 for clarity). Coverage of the Women's College Scholarship Club 50th anniversary introduction and historic highlights from 1938 to 1989. Read more here.

Come join the fun! New members always welcome!