A new award for students who contribute to the community is being launched at the Bermuda Professional Women's Association (BPWA), Heritage Ball on Saturday night.

The award has been named after founder of the BPWA and longtime Bermuda educator Dame Majorie Bean.

"The aim is to celebrate the life of Dame Majorie Bean with this award," said Cynthia Thomas, president of BPWA. "We want to be able to keep her in the memory of Bermudians because of her contribution to the Bermudian community as well her contribution to the international community. She was a trailblazer overall, but her interest in work in education in Bermuda stands out the most."

While the BPWA are still doing fundraising for this years award, Ms Thomas said it will be given out annually.

"I cannot commit to a dollar figure at this time because we are still raising funds for it," she said, "but it will happen whether we give out $500 or $1,400."

The Heritage Ball will take place at the Sonesta Beach Hotel on May 4.

The guest speaker will be Education Minister, Paula Cox.

The BPWA offers scholarships at present, but this will be the first of its kind. The award will not be exclusive to young women, but will be open to young men as well.

For more information about The Heritage Ball, making a donation or becoming a member please contact Mrs. Cynthia Thomas on 294-6824 or on 293-2238.