Betty Jo Harker Professional Development Scholarship

Renamed the Betty Jo Harker Scholarship in 2024, this GFOA award recognizes government finance professionals who are furthering their education on a part-time basis. Four awards of $10,000 each are given annually to support practitioners committed to advancing their skills in public financial management. The scholarship honors Betty Jo Harker's contributions to the profession. The 2027 application cycle opens in November 2026.

Open to part-time graduate students who have worked for at least two years in state or local government finance and intend to continue in that field. Required fields of study include public administration, governmental accounting, finance, economics, or business administration with a focus on government.

Applicants must submit two letters of recommendation along with transcripts and a personal statement. The application window opens each November for the following cycle.