About the Fund
The arts and letters were the great joy and life’s work of Myrna Abelman Siegel. Following her death in 1994, a close friend captured her spirit through poetry — an especially fitting tribute for someone who lived so fully through creative expression.
Myrna pursued writing with passion and precision. Armed with a degree in English and journalism from Georgia State University, she began her career in public relations, first with the City of Miami’s Travel and Tourism Department and later with Broward County. She eventually left the profession to embrace her most cherished role as a mother when her daughter, Kelly, was born in 1980, followed by her son, Stephen, in 1984.
Throughout her career, motherhood and leisure, Myrna never stopped writing. She crafted insightful freelance articles for newspapers and magazines across South Florida and beyond, bringing a sharp eye and fresh perspective to every piece. Travel writing became her special love, providing endless inspiration during trips she shared with her husband, Jerry, of nearly 20 years.
Her creativity extended beyond the written word. Myrna also explored poetry, drawing and painting, always bringing a sense of beauty and originality to everything she touched. “She was very artistic, with a unique talent,” recalls Jerry. “She just brought beauty to everything she did.”
Myrna also gave generously of her time, volunteering extensively with her children’s schools, her synagogue, and the Friends of the Boca Raton Public Library. Her life reflected a deep commitment to nurturing creativity in both herself and others.
To honor her memory and perpetuate her love of the literary arts, Myrna’s family and friends established the Myrna Abelman Siegel Scholarship Fund at the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties. The scholarship is awarded annually to a student from Olympic Heights High School in Boca Raton who demonstrates creative writing talent and an interest in a career in journalism or public relations.
Through this scholarship, Myrna’s passion for writing, creativity and community service continues to inspire new generations of storytellers.
