The American Association of University Women (AAUW) has announced $6 million in fellowships and grants to more than 320 recipients in support of easing student debt.

The burden of student debt is a key contributor to the lifelong pay gap that disproportionately affects women, particularly women of color, across professions. AAUW funding will enable women in the United States and globally to focus on developing skills and qualifications to pursue educational and professional opportunities. Since 1888, AAUW has provided more than $135 million in fellowships, grants, and awards to 13,000 women from 150 countries.

“Our fellowships and grants have opened doors of access and opportunity for thousands of women for more than a century,” said AAUW CEO Gloria L. Blackwell. “This funding is life-changing and plays a pivotal role to ensure that women can achieve their dreams, especially women of color and for women in STEM fields, who still face enormous obstacles to success.”

For a complete list of fellowship and grant recipients, see the AAUW website.

(Photo credit: Getty Images/Fstop 123)