Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences Scholarship Recipients

In 2023, the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences provided funding through endowed scholarships, including:

Read more about this year's recipients on the pages ahead.

Gilbert C. Tolhurst Senior Scientist Award

Maggie Grossman with Assistant Professor Jennifer Mack

Maggie Grossman

Margaret (Maggie) Grossman recently graduated from UMass Amherst with a B.S. in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, as well as a minor in Psychology, and a letter of specialization in Developmental Disabilities and Human Services. During her time at UMass, Maggie was a research assistant in the Neuroscience of Language and Aphasia Lab under Dr. Jennifer Mack, and served as a departmental tutor and teaching assistant in the Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences. In the fall, Maggie will begin graduate school at the University of Vermont, where she will study Speech-Language Pathology. Along with her clinical training, she is looking forward to working in the Speech Fluency Lab. Maggie has greatly enjoyed her time at UMass, and is looking forward to continuing her education.

Thank you so much for granting me the Gilbert C. Tolhurst Award. It is an honor to be recognized for my academic and scientific achievements. As an undergraduate student at UMass, I had the opportunity to discover and grow my passion for science and research, thanks to the incredible faculty in the Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences department. I feel extremely privileged to have had professors who encouraged me to grow. Moving forward, I will continue to be involved in research during graduate school, and am excited to continue to grow as a researcher and as a learner. As I leave UMass, I am grateful to take with me all that I have been lucky enough to learn throughout my time here. Thank you again for this recognition.

Miriam P. Romo Award

Mia Tittman with Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences chair Sarah Poissant

Mia Tittman

Michelle “Mia” Tittmann is studying Speech Language and Hearing Sciences and is a member of the Commonwealth Honors College. Her interest in this field stems from her own experience with speech therapy as well as a strong desire to improve the quality of life of others. She is an undergraduate research assistant for the Brain Research of Chronic Aphasia with Dr. Kurland. Outside of academics, she spends her time volunteering at the Newman Catholic Center, watching documentaries, and writing poetry. After graduating from UMass, Mia plans on attending graduate school to pursue a career in speech-language pathology.

Thank you for the honor of selecting me to receive such a prestigious scholarship. After reading the description for the award, I knew I needed to apply. As a student, my goals reach beyond simply graduating. I strive to be a leader in the community and challenge those around me to be innovative and grow in their capabilities. Although my time as an undergraduate student at UMass is limited, going into my career I hope to continue being a leader.
My family has instilled in me a strong work ethic and the idea that helping others betters society. I volunteer to teach Sunday school at the Newman Catholic Center where I get to educate children in faith and life. I actively participate in registered student organizations such as the Adopted Students Advisory Panel while working as an Admissions Diversity Fellow for UMass Admissions.
Speech Language, and Hearing Sciences has been the perfect balance of scientific research and being of service, to all people. As an aspiring speech-language pathologist, I aim to support communities that are historically underrepresented and underfunded. Everyone is deserving of equal quality care. However, like all goals, there are obstacles. Financial support in my studies greatly relieves stress and pressure to work while studying. By focusing on being a student, I can ensure that my work and effort are at their highest potential.