Catherine Berner Named Recipient of The Lela Jahn Legacy “Make a Difference Challenge” Scholarship

In honor of his late wife and active FWSF member Lela Jahn, Don Bayer has generously donated $10,000 through the Lela Jahn “Make a Difference Challenge” scholarship for the fifth consecutive year. Each year since Lela’s passing in 2015, the scholarship has been given to a student with a career goal that positively impacts the world. It is hoped that using her time, talents and creativity, the grant winner will come up with novel approaches that prove to be an inspiring example for others.

This year's recipient is Catherine Berner, who is pursuing her MBA at Stanford Graduate School of Business. Like Lela, Catherine led a project in Kenya and learned a way to bring positive change to the world. As a project developer for a Kenyan waste-to-energy plant, Catherine saw firsthand how a lack of financing can stall projects that aim to reduce poverty and our carbon footprint. At Stanford, Catherine plans to develop advanced technical financing skills that will enable her continue her career in energy- an industry where women only make up 10% of executives. The Lela Jahn scholarship will play a key role in helping Catherine meet her career goals and become an inspiring example for other young women.

Click here to learn more about past recipients and Lela Jahn’s legacy.