WESTON — Back Yard Beekeepers Association (BYBA) is accepting applications for the fifth annual Jeff Shwartz “Be Educated in Entomology Scholarship Fund.” The scholarship provides up to $500 toward an educational experience intended to broaden the recipient’s knowledge and benefit fellow earthlings and the natural world.

The scholarship honors the legacy of Jeff Shwartz, a respected beekeeper, mentor, community volunteer, and member of the Weston-based Back Yard Beekeepers Association. Shwartz devoted the later years of his life to teaching adults and children about honeybees and other insects. His popular bee demonstrations at schools, fairs, and farms encouraged children to appreciate bees rather than fear them. He cared deeply about all living things and believed they deserved everyone’s help.

The scholarship has supported recipients ranging from middle school and high school students to college students and adults. Awards have helped fund college tuition, educational programs, and transportation to volunteer at an animal rescue.

Last year, a recipient from North Carolina used her scholarship to attend a major beekeeping conference. She brought the information and teaching materials she gathered back to her community, incorporating them into educational programs offered through her local beekeeping chapter. Another recipient received support for the development of bee-centered hive designs intended to strengthen the health and resilience of honey bee colonies while advancing biodiversity, food security, and the work of farmers and beekeepers.

Becky Newman of Back Yard Beekeepers Association said she is so happy to see Shwartz’s legacy continuing.

She added, “Last year, we received applications from around the world that reflected Jeff’s character and beliefs. I look forward to spreading more love into the world.”

The Jeff Shwartz scholarship is awarded annually and currently provides up to $500. Funds may be used for tuition, classes, books, registration fees, educational materials, research projects, and transportation related to the proposed experience.

Candidates should have an interest in their fellow earthlings and the natural world. The ideal candidate will seek to broaden their education while helping to make the planet better for all living things. There is no age limit.

People should submit a 500-word essay describing: the educational experience they plan to pursue, how the experience will help their fellow earthlings, and how the scholarship will help accomplish these goals.

Candidates should include their name, mailing address, e-mail address, phone number, the amount requested, and details about the proposed educational experience. They should include a website for the program or experience, when available. Applications will be reviewed by the BYBA Charitable Giving Committee and must be submitted by Friday, July 31 to jeffshwartzfund@backyardbeekeepers.com.