As the name indicates, the Surviving Spouse Scholarship program was designed to help grieving widows continue their education and relieve them of the financial burdens that come along with raising children on their own.  In early 2010 ASPIRE was approached by BAE Systems, Inc. with the idea to create a program that would fill the educational gap in support for our military surviving spouses.  Working together, ASPIRE and BAE Systems crafted a pilot program, using the ASPIRE model, and identified the first six recipients.  BAE Systems, Inc. generously provided funding and continues to support the program and the recipients.  The stories of tragedy and determination captured our hearts.  The recipients demonstrate selfless determination and a will that drives them on when some would have so easily given up.