2011 Newsletter Articles
Stepping Stones
As the challenging economy continues to weigh on so many, the need to defray the rising costs of higher education has never been greater. Equally, there is an increasing need for talented and ambitious young people to respond to the call and actively decide to be leaders and drivers of our evolving society. We are extremely fortunate to be at this fulcrum – matching incredibly talented individuals with incredibly generous donors. It's no accident that so many of our winners have shown a commitment to excellence throughout their entire lives. Many have graduated and gone on to even greater heights. For example, Dominique Nute who received her scholarship from us in 2003, graduated from the University of Illinois in 2007. She earned her Masters of Science for Teachers from Pace University in 2009 and spent nearly three years teaching middle school in inner city, NYC. Eric Glover, also a 2003 recipient, graduated from Swarthmore in 2007 and is now earning his Ph.D. in English from Princeton University. Renee Pitter, a 2002 winner, graduated from the University of Michigan in 2006, earned her Masters in 2009 and is currently the Events and Outreach Coordinator for the Center for Global and Intercultural Study at the University of Michigan. Daina Mallard, a 2001 recipient, graduated in 2005 with a degree in Kinesiology from the University of Illinois. She is a Clinical Oncology Dietitian, working at the Cancer Centers of America where she works with gynecological cancer patients. We are so impressed by their accomplishments!Now in our twelfth year, we’re proud to state that 32 young women and men scholars have benefitted from our collective generosity and support. It would not have happened without your ongoing support. Thank you most sincerely. We look forward to sharing more stories of success in the future.
Checking In...
It’s always great to hear how our scholarship winners are doing in college. We received this note from a 2008 recipient, Moriah Green, who attends the University of Illinois - After trying out a few majors I chose to double major in English and Sociology. I enjoy going to U of I very much. Being on this campus makes me feel like I am apart of every aspect of it. It’s such a great environment with many opportunities. I've joined many clubs such as the Black Chorus, Soul Premiere, Minority Association for Future Attorneys and currently Chair person for the Illini Union Board Progressive programs and a mentor at an elementary school in Champaign. Juggling school and work can be challenging at times, but I've learned to balance my time and have met a lot of people through both. I'd like to thank you all again for helping me out and choosing me as a previous recipient, it’s truly appreciated.Another comes from Eric Rimple, a 2008 recipient who attends the University of Miami-The past two years of college were great, and I especially loved the freedom that came with it. With freedom comes responsibility as they say, and I definitely experienced a lot of it being in a fraternity, “Alpha Sigma Phi” and joining two engineering student organizations on campus. Just recently I went to an audition for a movie and got a part in it, so I may be doing some acting on the side as well. [Now with] most of my hard “weeding out” classes behind me, I believe the next two years of college will be even moreinteresting and focused on my specific major, Industrial Engineering. Finally, a note from Jennifer Lambert, class of 2007, who is scheduled to graduate from University of Michigan this spring-I will graduate with a dual degree in Economics and Spanish and a minor in Peace and Social Justice. As I look for opportunities post-graduation, the options are overwhelming! I have applied to various positions and I'm just waiting to hear back. Last year second semester I was able to study abroad in Madrid, Spain for five months and I had a life-changing experience so I am looking internationally as well. Our scholars are clearly working hard and challenging themselves!
