The Yakima Housing Authority established the Sharon Wandler Scholarship in memory of Sharon Lee Wandler for the lifetime work and contribution to our community. Sharon dedicated 24 years of her life serving as the Finance Director of the Yakima Housing Authority. Three scholarships will be awarded to candidates pursuing their first degree.
One scholarship, which will be awarded to a returning college attendee, and two scholarships for High School Graduates or GED holder. Each award will be a one-time scholarship.
Yakima Housing Authority current and past residents meeting the financial and residential requirements will be eligible to apply. Applicant must also be attending or planning to attend a two or four-year college or vocational school that will end in a certification or degree. In addition, applicant must be a current high school student, or returning adult student who possess a GED or high school diploma. The Sharon Wandler Scholarship is geared toward those with demonstrated leadership qualities and participation in extracurricular activities, who plan to attend higher education on a full-time basis.
The scholarship application is now available. The application must be submitted with all relevant documentation no later then midnight on May 01, 2026.
Mailing Address: Yakima Housing Authority | P.O. Box 1447 | Yakima, WA 98907
Electronic Submissions: Monica.Rubin@yakimahousing.org, | (509) 453-3106, ext. 114
In Memory of Sharon Lee Wandler
June 20, 1945 - August 5, 2012
Sharon worked in finance and accounting throughout her professional years, serving 24 dedicated years as the Finance Director at the Yakima Housing Authority. She took pride in helping others acquire homes, in being a good steward of tax payers' money, and in being part of her team. She continued to take joy in strengthening her community by volunteering for the Naches School District, becoming treasurer of the Dollars for Scholars Scholarship Fund. During a rally with her recent illness, Sharon shared how she longed to recover in order to continue her efforts for the students in her community.
Sharon was a spitfire. She was feisty, and had the ability to avoid taking herself too seriously. With her keen wit, she helped others to gain a sense of perspective. She shared fiercely loyal friendships, and lived in the certainty that she and her friends would do anything for each other.
Sharon was a gifted mentor and devoted grandmother who filled her schedule with grandchildren's events: school events, sports, plays and school programs. She was a nurturer, tending her home garden and the garden of human beings who graced her life. She continues to be a source of inspiration. Even through her illness, her faith was undeterred and her soul was prepared.