The Women of Promise & Courage scholarships were originally established by the Abilene Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW). AAUW has been empowering women as individuals and as a community since 1881. In 2023, the Abilene Women of Outstanding Achievement organization was founded to continue the work of the Abilene AAUW Chapter in our community. The Women of Achievement Award aims to recognize and honor women of diverse cultures, roles, and accomplishments who have demonstrated commitment to the betterment of the Abilene region through significant voluntary contributions.