Global Health Impact Endowment

Kate Kyeremateng

Kate Kyeremateng, Biostatistics and Epidemiology

Kate Kyeremateng is a graduate student in the Epidemiology program. Trained as a nurse in Ghana, Kate has been interested in opportunities to promote health through science and research. Upon completing her bachelor’s degree in nursing, she volunteered at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research, Ghana and assisted in a clinical trial investigating the effectiveness of a vaccine for Lassa Fever disease in Africa. This experience sparked her interest in Epidemiology. Kate served as a nurse in rural Ghana as part of her mandatory national service. She recognized how the physical and social environment interact to shape the health of local communities. This led her to pursue research on an environmental health project led by Professor Raphael Arku in Accra, Ghana. The project was focused on examining the impacts of air and noise pollution on local communities and vulnerable populations. Kate then led the field team in the ongoing Accra birth cohort study designed to examine the impact of air pollution on maternal and child health in the city. At UMass Amherst, Kate continues to pursue her interest and seeks to leverage her training in Environmental Epidemiology to contribute to equitable health and policy initiatives with a focus on women and children in sub-Saharan Africa. Kate enjoys listening to podcasts and engaging in philosophical conversations with her friends. 

I am extremely excited and honored to receive this award. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity and recognition. I hope to apply my skills in epidemiology to conduct research and support policy interventions in the Global South, starting in my native country of Ghana. Thank you for this recognition. 

Kozma-Littleton Family Fund Scholarship

Monica Silva

Monica Silva, Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

Monica Silva is an upcoming undergraduate junior from Riverhead, New York, studying Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences and Linguistics. When home, she works as a Special Education Aide at the Westhampton Beach Learning Center assisting children with developmental disabilities to receive the best school experience possible. 

As the recipient of the Kozma-Littleton Family Fund, I would like to thank you for gifting me this honorable award.  Thanks to your generosity, the cost of attending this university has lessened for my parents and me, and I can continue to aid bilingual children in their language acquisition. I hope to motivate other Spanish and English speakers to join the field, to see how their presence can positively influence a child’s life.  

Robert Clinton Memorial Scholarship

Gloria Walker-Hoover

Gloria Walker-Hoover, Public Health Sciences

Gloria Walker-Hoover is a junior majoring in public health science with a concentration in global health and a minor in Afro-American studies. Since childhood, she has had a passion for helping people which led her to major in public health. She finds the field interesting because of the way it is connected to other subjects and offers endless career opportunities. Within her major she is interested in conducting research, working with public health organizations, and creating frameworks and policies that promote the health and wellbeing of minority groups. After graduating with her bachelor's degree in public health she plans to continue her pursuit of global health by conducting research abroad or pursuing a master’s degree. Outside of public health, she enjoys music, painting, reading, and gardening. 

I am honored to be the recipient of the Robert Clinton Memorial Scholarship and I thank you for your generous support. The loss of my mother changed the way I view life. It made me consider the kind of impact I want to have in my personal and professional life. I want to advocate for and carry out solutions that will improve the lives of others. I am extremely grateful for this scholarship and excited to see what my upcoming semester abroad has to offer.  

Shirli Fabbri Weiss Internship Fund

Hengie Isidore

Hengie Isidore, Public Health Sciences

Hengie Isidore is a rising senior at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, majoring in public health and pursuing a minor in business. She is also a member of the Commonwealth Honors College at UMass. Her interest in policy and management was significantly influenced by her upbringing, with her mother working in business and finance and her father serving as a diplomat. Throughout high school, Hengie developed a fascination with the human body and the mental, spiritual, physical, emotional, and social health impact on quality of life and well-being. This passion led her to pursue her studies in public health. She has dedicated herself to understanding the complex interplay between various aspects of health and the policies that affect them. She is committed to leveraging her education to drive meaningful changes in healthcare, to improve access and outcomes for diverse populations. Hengie will begin working towards her master’s degree as a 4+ 1 student in Health Policy and Management program where she hopes to gain the necessary knowledge and credentials to have a positive impact in health policy. In her free time, Hengie enjoys listening to music, attending concerts, reading, and spending time with friends. 

I express my heartfelt gratitude for being a recipient of the Shirli Weiss Scholarship Award. I am truly honored and deeply appreciative of your generous support towards my education and internship experience. This scholarship will significantly ease my financial burden and allow me to focus more on creating a positive and rewarding experience as an intern. I am committed to making the most of this opportunity and giving back to the community in meaningful ways. This scholarship brings me one step closer to achieving my career goals of improving healthcare policies and systems, ensuring they are accessible and beneficial to all. 

Mia Michelle Tittmann

Mia Michelle Tittmann, Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences

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 and a desire to improve others' quality of life. She is an undergraduate research assistant for the Brain Research of Chronic Aphasia with Dr. Jacquie Kurland and has completed her honors thesis on BIPOC Parent Outcomes of Autistic Children. Outside of academics, she spends her time volunteering at the Newman Catholic Center, watching documentaries, and writing poetry. After graduating from UMass, Mia plans to attend graduate school to pursue a career in speech-language pathology. 

Thank you for the honor of selecting me to receive such a prestigious scholarship. As an aspiring Speech-Language Pathologist, I need to gain as much experience as possible to improve myself, and the work that I do, and this award will aid in my ability to put my all into my internship at Tate Behavioral.

Yasmine Tighiouart

Yasmine Tighiouart, Public Health Sciences

Yasmine Tighiouart is a junior majoring in public health policy and minoring in Arabic. From an early age, she was inspired by her father who was a biostatistician. This early exposure to public health inspired her to pursue a career as a biostatistician. Her fascination with research and using mathematics to address health disparities drives her professional pursuits in helping underserved communities. Beyond academics, Yasmine is a campus tour guide and is involved in various organizations including the Muslim Student Association and the Arab Cultural Association. She also served as an undergraduate teaching assistant.

I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for the Shirli Fabbri Weiss Scholarship. This scholarship not only alleviates the financial burden of my education but also inspires me to continue striving toward becoming a biostatistician. As a first-generation Algerian and Palestinian American, pursuing higher education holds special significance to me, as many people from my background do not have the same opportunities. Thank you for believing in my potential and your commitment to supporting students like me. Your generosity is an investment in my education and the future of public health. I am beyond grateful for this scholarship. 

The Yablonski Fellowship Fund

Abigail Zelvis

Abigail Zelvis, Health Promotion and Policy

Abigail Zelvis is a Master of Public Health (MPH) student in the Health Policy and Management program through the Department of Health Promotion and Policy. Abigail completed her practicum as a governor relations intern at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island. She assisted with the development and implementation of the company’s healthcare policy initiatives, gaining valuable experience in policy analysis, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement. During her practicum, Abigail worked on various projects that aimed to improve healthcare access and quality, including research on legislative proposals and their potential impacts on the healthcare system. Her work contributed to the successful advancement of several key policy initiatives. With a solid foundation in public health and business, Abigail is passionate about shaping health policy to create equitable and efficient healthcare systems. After graduation, she hopes to continue to work in the health policy field, focusing on areas such as healthcare reform, health equity, and public health advocacy. Abigail aspires to influence policy decisions that enhance public health outcomes and ensure that healthcare services are accessible and affordable for all. 

I want to express my sincere gratitude for your generous support of my educational journey as an MPH student. This scholarship has been crucial in allowing me to follow my dreams and work towards making a difference in the world of health policy. Thank you once again for your generosity and belief in my potential. 

William A. Darity Sr. Graduate Scholarship

Autumn Reynolds

Autumn Reynolds, Health Promotion and Policy

Autumn Reynolds is pursuing her accelerated master's degree in health policy and management (MPH) at UMass Amherst. With a deep-rooted passion for health equity and diversity, Autumn is a dedicated advocate for creating inclusive environments and fostering positive social change. Throughout her academic journey, Autumn has actively worked towards advancing health equity and social diversity in the world. 

Your generosity has eased my financial burden along with providing me with the motivation to pursue my passion for health equity. Throughout my academic journey, I have been committed to creating inclusive environments and fostering positive social change in my communities. Your support is instrumental in helping me continue this important work. I am grateful and inspired by your generosity. 

David Hosmer Outstanding First-Year Student Awards

Shane Fitzgerald

Shane Fitzgerald (MS, Biostatistics)

Shane Fitzgerald is a graduate student in the biostatistics master’s program from Wilbraham, Massachusetts who recently completed his first year. Coming from a background in applied science, he has enjoyed the challenge of learning a more mathematical approach to public health. In the future, he hopes to use his skills as a biostatistician to aid the public in protecting and improving their health. In his spare time, he enjoys running, hiking, and snowboarding. 

I would like to express my deepest gratitude for being chosen to receive this award. It is truly an honor to be recognized for my accomplishments during my first year at UMass Amherst. My experience so far has been fulfilling. I have learned new skills that will aid me greatly as I pursue a career as a biostatistician. Receiving this scholarship motivates me to continue to work hard as I move closer to my goals. Thank you very much for your generosity and support. 

Rebekah Kristal

Rebekah Kristal (MS, Biostatistics)

Rebekah Kristal is a first-year MS student in biostatistics in the School of Public Health and Health Sciences. She earned her undergraduate degree in applied math and history from Brandeis University in Waltham. These studies gave her the analytical and social training to pursue quantitative research in public health. Years of personal experience with disability and chronic illness motivated her to explore health equity to support marginalized communities, and her research interests have formed around this goal. In her free time, she enjoys learning her family recipes and hiking around Amherst with friends. She hopes to pursue a PhD in biostatistics at UMass, and eventually become a professor. 

Thank you so much for your generous gift for the David Hosmer Scholarship. I am humbled and grateful to receive this award. This award will be helpful in covering expenses in graduate school and will allow me to focus on my studies and the opportunities available to me. It is an incredible gift, and I am so thankful for your generosity in making it possible. 

Kate Kyeremateng

Kate Kyeremateng (MS, Epidemiology)

Kate Kyeremateng is a graduate student in the epidemiology program. Trained as a nurse in Ghana, Kate has been interested in opportunities to promote health through science and research. Upon completing her bachelor’s degree in nursing, she volunteered at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research in Ghana and assisted in a clinical trial investigating the effectiveness of a vaccine for Lassa Fever disease in Africa. This experience sparked her interest in epidemiology. Later, while serving as a nurse in rural Ghana as part of her mandatory national service, she recognized how the physical and social environment interact to shape the health of local communities. This realization inspired her to pursue research roles on an environmental health project led by Professor Raphael Arku in Accra, Ghana. The project was focused on examining the impacts of air and noise pollution on local communities and vulnerable populations. Kate then led the field team in the ongoing Accra birth cohort study designed to examine the impact of air pollution on maternal and child health in the city. At UMass Amherst, Kate continues to pursue her interest and seeks to leverage her training in epidemiology and environmental epidemiology to contribute to equitable health and policy initiatives with a focus on women and children in sub-Saharan Africa. Outside of school, Kate enjoys listening to podcasts and engaging in philosophical conversations with her friends.  

I am honored to receive this meritorious award, which recognizes and financially supports the academic achievements of students. With a growing disease burden in under-resourced countries like my country, Ghana, expertise in epidemiology is needed now more than ever. I will continue to persevere in the pursuit of my goals. I am deeply grateful to the donors for this prestigious award and hope to make it count. 

Jenna Marando

Jenna Marando (4+1, Epidemiology)

Jenna Marando just completed her undergraduate degree in public health sciences, as well as the first year of her Master of Public Health in Epidemiology at UMass through the 4+1 program. She found a passion for epidemiology after taking PUBHLTH 224 with Dr. Cassandra Spracklen and has continued to find new, interesting areas of the field. She has a particular interest in how data can be used for informed decision-making to improve the health and well-being of communities. Jenna is looking forward to her internship this summer with the Rhode Island Public Health Institute and after graduation next spring, she hopes to work for a local public health organization to work closely with different communities to make a positive impact. 

 Thank you for making it possible for me to receive the David Hosmer Outstanding First-Year Student Award. This scholarship helps make it possible for me to continue to make the most out of my time at UMass in The School of Public Health and Health Sciences. Thank you again for your generous award and I am honored to have my efforts throughout my first year of graduate school recognized. 

Rachel Taylor

Rachel Taylor (MPH, Epidemiology)

Rachel Taylor is a first-year graduate student pursuing her Master of Public Health in Epidemiology at UMass Amherst. Rachel graduated from UMass in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Anthropology. She then worked for two years as a research fellow on the UMass New Moms Wellness Study, a randomized clinical trial investigating the effects of a high fruit and vegetable postpartum diet on breast cancer risk in lactating mothers. This research experience piqued her interest in the roles that dietary and lifestyle factors can play in modifying disease risk. She hopes to use her MPH training to further contribute to epidemiologic research in women's and children’s health. Over the summer, she will complete her practicum with the Holyoke Board of Health through the Massachusetts Department of Public Health’s Local Health Internship Program. In her free time, Rachel loves to hike around the Pioneer Valley, read, and spend time with friends and family. 

It is an honor to have been chosen for David Hosmer Outstanding First-Year Masters Student Award. It allows me to focus my attention on coursework and less on the monetary burden of living and studying in Amherst. This award gives me profound reassurance and encouragement that my efforts are worthwhile and that I am on the right path.

Rian You

Rian You (MS, Biostatistics)

Rian You is a master's student in biostatistics at UMass Amherst. Concurrently working as a data analyst at Baystate Health, she is passionate about transforming data into actionable insights to promote healthcare development. She aims to leverage her data science expertise to improve the quality of care and healthcare accessibility in the community. In her leisure time, Rian enjoys swimming, culinary exploration, and embarking on road trips. 

I am deeply honored to have been selected as a recipient of the David Hosmer Outstanding First-Year Student Award. Thank you for your generous support and for your confidence in my potential. This award not only recognizes my hard work as a first-year student but also motivates me to contribute meaningfully to the field of public health.  I am committed to upholding the standards of excellence associated with this award and strive to make meaningful contributions to the field.

Departmental Second-Year Student Awards

Godness Biney

Godness Biney (MS, Epidemiology)

Godness Biney is a dedicated doctoral researcher at the University of Massachusetts Amherst and an experienced medical practitioner from Ghana. With a strong commitment to bridging the gap between research and policy implementation in Ghana, Godness co-founded Ghanaian Scholars Abroad, a non-governmental organization (NGO) aimed at bringing together scholars of Ghanaian descent worldwide to leverage their expertise and form a formidable alliance with local stakeholders to address this gap. Godness is also involved in other NGOs, such as the Stem for Development and Global Connect Foundation, which all aim to promote equity in education and health, respectively. His research interests span global health, maternal and child health, and cardiovascular disease epidemiology, with a focus on the intersection between genetics and cardiometabolic diseases. Godness is particularly passionate about identifying innovative ways of predicting and preventing cardiometabolic diseases, especially type 2 diabetes mellitus. After graduating, Godness aims to continue working as a researcher to make meaningful contributions in his field. Beyond academics, Godness enjoys reading and listening to podcasts, enriching his knowledge, and broadening his perspective.

I have profound gratitude for the generous donation toward the Departmental Second-Year Student Award. Receiving this prestigious award at the School of Public Health and Health Sciences ceremony was truly an honor. This scholarship alleviates the financial burden associated with my graduate studies and honors my dedication and achievements. It serves as a testament to my hard work and resilience and further motivates me to pursue my dreams without limits.

Ben Goldberg

Ben Goldberg (MS, Biostatistics)

Ben Goldberg is a graduate of the 4 + 1 Master’s in Biostatistics program at UMass Amherst. His research took place in The Ouyang Lab studying breast cancer genetics. Last summer, Ben had an internship at Boston Children's Hospital, where he assisted with multiple studies about Neonatal Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome. In the future, Ben hopes to become a biostatistician. In his free time, he likes to watch sports, play video games, paint-by-numbers, and go for walks.

I would like to express my gratitude for receiving the Departmental Second-Year Student Award. Being presented with an award two years in a row, has been such a great honor and experience. You have helped me fulfill my dream to be here for both undergraduate and graduate school.

Rebecca Hunt

Rebecca Hunt (MS, Epidemiology)

Rebecca Hunt is a recent graduate from the accelerated 4+1 program in Epidemiology with a focus area in Epidemiology and Vulnerable Populations and a minor in Natural Resources Conservation. Throughout her time at UMass, Rebecca served as a peer advisor and research assistant. Her thesis examined experiences of discrimination and markers of cardiometabolic health using data from the Pioneer Valley Stress Study, which she was a research assistant for during her graduate studies. In her free time, she loves to care for her pets (a dog, a cat, and an aquarium full of fish), watch horror movies with friends, and crochet. After graduating, Rebecca hopes to pursue a fellowship or work as a state-level epidemiologist.

I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for selecting me as a recipient of the Departmental Second-Year Student Award. It is with immense appreciation that I accept this generous honor. Receiving this scholarship will help alleviate the burden of my student loans, which is particularly important as I leave UMass Amherst and embark on the next part of my academic and professional journey. I am committed to honoring your investment by continuing to work hard and being the best epidemiologist I can be.

Diane J. Mundt Memorial Scholarship

Sabiha Nasrin

Sabiha Nasrin (PhD, Epidemiology)

Sabiha Nasrin is a medical graduate with a master’s degree in public health with a strong interest in improving health by preventing diseases. Following this passion, I have engaged in several research projects at the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research in Bangladesh for the past 10 years. During Sabiha's clinical fellowship, she was directly involved with the management of Cholera outbreaks and epidemiology. Since 2014 Sabiha has been working in collaboration with Brown University.

Please accept my deepest thanks for making it possible for me to receive this generous award. My journey to pursuing a scientific career has always been challenging. I have faced significant obstacles, including limited access to quality education, cultural norms discouraging female participation in STEM fields, and a lack of supportive infrastructure. As a widow raising my son alone for the past seven years, I have also faced financial constraints, familial responsibilities, and a lack of mental health support, which further hindered my ability to focus on my scientific aspirations. Despite these challenges, I continued to strive for success in science, a feat that would not have been possible without the support of people like you.

Corinne A. Johnson Memorial Scholarship

Austin Bartlett

Austin Bartlett

Austin Bartlett, originally from Naugatuck, Connecticut, is pursuing his master's degree in environmental health sciences. From an early age, he was a member of the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) program. In high school, Austin joined the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC). Austin accumulated thousands of hours of community service between AFJROTC, BSA, and the American Legion. He soon enlisted in the Air National Guard (ANG) with dreams of becoming a Public Health officer in the United States Public Health Services.  

It is with great honor and privilege that I can write this in acceptance of this scholarship. I feel humbled to be selected as one of the recipients who were determined to display the aspects of Corinne A. Johnson.

Michelle Boralessa

Michelle Boralessa

Michelle Boralessa will soon be starting her second year as a Master of Public Health student in the Environmental Health Sciences Department at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. She currently works with Dr. Song Liang on his research related to enteropathogenic infection among children in low-to-middle-income countries. Michelle’s primary research interest is how the intersection of human health and the environment is shifting due to climate change. Her passion for environmental health is rooted in her identity as a Sri Lankan American. Her experiences in Sri Lanka opened her eyes to a world of health inequities and inspired her to pursue this degree. Specifically, she is fascinated by mosquito-borne illnesses; she authored her undergraduate thesis on the progress of malaria elimination programs in Sri Lanka and Nigeria. Michelle aims to work in global environmental health in the future.

Thank you for the honor of being selected for the Corinne A. Johnson Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship will help me to focus on my academics rather than the financial costs of my degree. Thanks to your generosity, I am one step closer to achieving my dream of working in global environmental health. I am deeply inspired by Corinne A. Johnson’s story, and I will do my best to embody her spirit in everything I do.

Carissa Lange

Carissa Lange

Carissa Lange is entering her fourth year as a PhD candidate in the environmental health sciences program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Under the supervision of Dr. Raphael Arku, she conducts research that assesses the influence of air and noise pollution exposures on a variety of adverse health outcomes among infants and children in Sub-Saharan Africa. Also, Carissa has served as a teaching assistant for many undergraduate and graduate courses and will be a teaching associate for an introductory public health course for the second time in the fall. Carissa is also a member of the School of Public Health and Health Sciences Dean’s Student Advisory Board, where she plays an active role advising the Dean, organizing student events, and providing ideas to improve the student experience. Before her work at UMass, Carissa obtained a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Environmental Science from Allegheny College and a Master of Science in Environmental Science and Management from Duquesne University. Both her previous and present research have led to her passion for understanding how environmental policy decisions influence public health, especially in underserved communities. Outside the classroom, Carissa teaches dance at a local studio, serves as a volunteer Counselor Advocate for the Center for Women and Community, and assists as a chapter advisor for the Delta Mu chapter of Alpha Chi Omega.

I cannot thank you enough for rewarding me with the Corinne A. Johnson Memorial Scholarship, as your generosity will serve as a catalyst for many of my future research pursuits. I hope that you can take pride in my dedication to furthering my education and advancing the health of communities.

Lindsey Russo

Lindsey Russo

Lindsey Russo is a PhD candidate in Environmental Health Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She has extensive experience in reproductive epidemiology. Lindsey is mentored by Dr. Carrie Nobles and is working on data through the support of Dr. Nobles’ collaborations to explore the relation between ambient air pollution with male and couple-level reproductive health. Lindsey worked as a summer intern with NIEHS in 2021, a 2020-21 Graduate Grant Writing Scholar with the Center for Research on Families, and plans to pursue a career as a professor in the future.

Thank you for the true honor of receiving the 2024 Corrine A. Johnson Memorial Scholarship. As a PhD candidate soon to embark on a postdoctoral fellowship, this scholarship will provide an excellent source of support as I complete my doctoral dissertation. I feel so supported by the donors who support the Corrine A. Johnson Award in my career aspirations to pursue an independent career in research. I am so grateful to the Environmental Health Sciences Department at UMass Amherst and the EHS Scholarship Committee for this support. 

Elaine Briggs Internship Fund

Olatunbosun Arowolo

Olatunbosun Arowolo

Olatunbosun (Bosun) Arowolo is a doctoral candidate at the Department of Environmental Health Sciences. Under the supervision of Dr. Alexander Suvorov, he conducts research that provides an understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for the regulation of rates of epigenetic aging of sperm, characterizing these mechanisms as a novel adverse outcome pathway, linking xenobiotic exposures and sperm epigenetic aging. Before enrolling at UMass Amherst, He earned his bachelor’s degree in environmental management and toxicology at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria in 2014. In 2018, he completed his master’s degree in environmental biology and public health at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria. Between 2016 and 2020, he worked as a research assistant and later as an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Biological Sciences at Elizade University, Ondo State, Nigeria. His hobbies are teaching, researching, and traveling.

Please kindly accept my heartfelt appreciation for the Elaine Briggs Internship Fund. Your confidence in my capabilities and your generous support are deeply appreciated, marking a significant milestone in my academic journey. Rest assured, I am committed to upholding the ethos of this Internship Fund as I embark on my professional endeavors, striving to effect substantial positive change.

Patricia Henegan

Patricia Henegan

Patricia Henegan is a first year Environmental Health Sciences PhD student in Dr. Richard Peltier’s air pollution laboratory. Her research interests focus on the chemical composition of air pollution and their corresponding anthropogenic sources. She works to address issues concerning air quality and convey ways to lessen and adjust to the escalating impacts of environmental injustices and climate change on vulnerable communities. Her hobbies include reading fantasy and singing show tunes. Patricia’s career goal is to become a college professor.

I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your generous scholarship award. With this financial assistance, you have not only lightened my financial burden but also provided me with the opportunity to focus more intently on my studies and pursue my academic and career goals with greater determination. Your kindness has inspired me to strive for excellence and to one day pay it forward by assisting others in achieving their dreams. Thank you so much for the Elaine Briggs Internship scholarship!

Elise Pierce

Elise Pierce

Elise Pierce graduated with a B.S. in Public Health Sciences in May 2024 and is entering her 5th year at UMass Amherst as part of the 4+1 for a Master of Science in Environmental Health Sciences. She works in Dr. Laura Vandenberg’s lab at UMass where she studies the effects of environmental exposures to endocrine-disrupting chemicals on the mouse mammary gland. She enjoys hiking and reading, and she hopes to pursue a career as an environmental analyst.

I am so grateful to receive the Elaine Briggs Internship Award. This scholarship will make it possible for me to stay in Amherst for the summer as I pursue a research internship in Dr. Laura Vandenberg’s environmental health lab. 

The Stewart Fellowship

Barbara Mottey

Barbara Mottey

Barbara Mottey is a third year PhD student in the Department of Environmental Health Sciences at UMass, Amherst who hails from Ghana. Her research interest in air pollution in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) stemmed from her discovery of how this can impact birth outcomes. Her research centers on air pollution and its impact on birth outcomes in SSA. Using a longitudinal data (5 years) from 10 fixed sites in Greater Accra Metropolitan area (GAMA), Ghana, she aims to assess the trend in PM2.5 as well as Black carbon and what factors are driving these. She would also assess how prenatal exposures to these pollutants are associated with adverse birth outcomes using a recently developed land-use regression model.

Thank you for being so generous and willing to support the drive towards a better health outcome for all by reducing exposures and/or their impacts on health through research that informs policies. Your trust in my abilities and scientific contribution means a lot to me. I am grateful for your support as I embark on my journey in becoming a professor and researcher in Environmental Health Sciences.

Kaniz Rabeya

Kaniz Rabeya

Kaniz Rabeya originated from Bangladesh. She is a second-year PhD student in the Department of Environmental Health Sciences at the School of Public Health and Health Sciences at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Kaniz earned her bachelor's and master's degrees in pharmacy from a prestigious public university in Bangladesh and she is a registered pharmacist in Bangladesh. Pursuing her passion for public health and environmental epidemiology, she is actively working on exposure to ambient temperature and its impact on men's and women's reproductive health and pregnancy outcomes under the supervision of Dr. Carrie Nobles. She is working with Dr. Nobles as a research assistant. Moreover, Kaniz had three years of teaching experience prior to enrolling at UMass Amherst and worked as a teaching assistant for the Environmental Poisons course at UMass Amherst. She wants to pursue a career in academia after leaving UMass Amherst and particularly interested in continuing research to investigate environmental risk factors for women's health, contributing to the advancement of public health knowledge and addressing pressing issues in the field.

Receiving this prestigious award is a significant milestone in my academic journey. Thank you once again sincerely for your generosity and for helping students to pursue their career. I am deeply grateful to the Environmental Health Sciences Department at UMass Amherst and the EHS Scholarship Committee for allowing me to continue my PhD program. Support from the Stewart Fellowship is crucial in helping me achieve my goals, and mere words cannot fully express my gratitude.

Eric Sinacori Memorial Scholarship

Sophia Woods

Sophia Woods

Sophia Woods is majoring in kinesiology and is on the pre-PA track. During high school, she was a three-varsity sport athlete and the captain of each team. Sophia was president of the National Honor Society and dedicated countless hours to serving her community through an organization called Key Club. She is one of 10 siblings with 6 brothers and 4 sisters, and most of them grew up in the foster care system. Sophia says that growing up was anything but simple, but she would not change it. She says it made her strong, resilient, and determined to do anything. Sophia's dream is to help people in need and make them feel heard and understood. Being a first-generation student has made her determined to accomplish anything she sets out to do. While at UMass Amherst she says she has been supported by the academic community and peers. She is a member of the UMass club rugby team, and the pre-PA club, participated in intramural sports, and tried out for the club field hockey team. 

Thank you for choosing me as a recipient of the Eric Sinacori Memorial Scholarship. I am grateful for the generous award. Throughout these four years of my life, I realized that I love being able to assist others. I am financially responsible for all my expenses and bills as a working college student. It is because of people like you that I can live out my dream. Receiving this scholarship has lifted a tremendous amount of stress off my shoulders. It is because of you that I can inspire others, make my family proud, and most of all, make my dreams come true.

Esther Wallace Scholarship

Julia Hinckley

Julia Hinckley

Julia Hinckley, is a freshman of the Commonwealth Honors College at UMass Amherst. She is from Norton MA. Julia is majoring in kinesiology and is on track toward becoming a physician’s assistant. During her first semester at UMASS, she joined the Public Health Club to support her studies further. During her high school career, she interned at a physical therapy practice and also had the unique experience of shadowing an orthopedic physician assistant in the operating room of New England Baptist Hospital and in the office during patient visits. She says this experience solidified her commitment to a future in public health.

It is with sincere gratitude that I accept the Esther Wallace scholarship toward my studies at UMass Amherst. This scholarship will help to alleviate some of my financial responsibilities and allow me to put my efforts toward my studies on a path to becoming a physician assistant. This scholarship will ultimately support my goals, allowing me to be of service to others in the medical field. Thank you very much for this generous gift. 

Frank Rife Undergraduate Scholarship in Kinesiology

Shyla Senn

Shyla Senn

Shyla Senn is a sophomore kinesiology major on the pre-physical therapy track while completing a medical humanities certification. Shyla is also a member of the Commonwealth Honors College. This summer with the support of this scholarship, Shyla will intern at the Charles River Center in Needham, Massachusetts shadowing physical therapists, occupational therapists, and a speech-language pathologist who care for adults with disabilities.

I am writing to express my gratitude for being awarded the 2024 Frank Rife Kinesiology Opportunity scholarship. Thanks to this scholarship, you lighten my financial burden of relocation making the internship experience more accessible for me.

John R. Schroeder Scholarship Fund

Trevor Maslowski

Trevor Maslowski

Trevor Maslowski is a junior at The University of Massachusetts Amherst, majoring in kinesiology on the physical therapy track. Trevor is from Northampton, Massachusetts, and graduated from Northampton High School in the class of 2022. In his spare time, he enjoys working out and trying to be outside and active as much as possible. He has participated in playing football, basketball, and baseball through the high school varsity level. He suffered a severe shoulder injury causing him to need surgery and an extended amount of physical therapy to heal. During this time, he became inspired to help people through the challenges of recovery because of how much his doctors and physical therapist helped him. After graduating, he hopes to go on to physical therapy school.

I am sincerely grateful for being awarded the John R. Schroeder Scholarship. This recognition brings immense financial relief to me and my family. This support allows me to focus on my studies at UMass with renewed determination. In receiving this scholarship, I am one step closer to living my dream of becoming a licensed physical therapist. This is an incredible opportunity. I am thankful for the generosity of the donors and honored to receive this scholarship.

Patty Freedson Undergraduate Health and Wellness Scholarship

Ashley Fang

Ashley Fang

Ashley Fang is a junior Kinesiology major at UMass Amherst who grew up in Taipei, Taiwan currently studying abroad in South Korea. Her interests vary from watching baseball and outdoor activities to K-pop and anime. She enjoys working in the sports medicine field and plans to become a physical therapist working with professional athletes. Extracurricular activities she has participated in include intramural volleyball, Safety Officer with the UMass Badminton Club, Career Ambassador, and UMass Athletics athletic trainer internship.  

This will help me to repay my family who always supports me. They have put in a lot of effort to support my dream and pay for the tuition abroad while we are on the opposite side of the world. The support I received from this award is more than financial. Getting frustrated by the rejection of multiple internship applications and my student visa status, it is hard to be determined despite my passion for sports and helping others. There are more reasons for me to continue the path of being awarded the scholarship.                  

Mark Justin Legarda

Mark Justin Legarda

Mark Justin Legarda is a junior kinesiology major hailing from West Springfield, MA. Mark enjoys exploring the local area with his friends and rowing with the Men’s Club Crew team on campus. After graduation, he aspires to take the knowledge he obtained with his degree and apply it to both medical school and beyond.

I am honored to be the recipient of the Patty Freedson Undergraduate Health and Wellness Scholarship.  I would like to thank each person who recognized me and the work that I have been doing. It truly means a lot to be acknowledged within our community. I will use this recognition as further motivation towards striving for academic excellence.

Priscilla M. Clarkson Graduate Scholarship in Kinesiology

Shivangi Bajpai

Shivangi Bajpai

Shivangi Bajpai is a doctoral candidate in the Department of Kinesiology within the School of Public Health and Health Sciences. Under the mentorship of Dr. Amanda Paluch, her current research focuses on advancing the measurement of physical activity and examining its association with various health outcomes. Passionate about improving health outcomes among older adults and informal family caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s and Related Dementia (ADRD), Shivangi's dissertation work aims to explore the utility of wearable device metrics in monitoring the psychological and cardiovascular health of older women and ADRD caregivers. Shivangi’s dedication and hard work have been recognized through various accolades, including the prestigious American Association of University Women (AAUW) 2023-2024 Fellowship. This fellowship provides critical financial support, allowing her to focus entirely on her dissertation research. Shivangi aspires to continue her career in academia and research. She aims to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on physical activity and health, particularly in aging populations and caregivers.

I extend my heartfelt thanks for your generosity and support. This scholarship has not only provided me with the financial means to pursue my research but has also motivated me to strive for excellence in my academic and professional endeavors. I am grateful for this opportunity, and I am committed to making a positive impact in the field of health and behavioral science.

Ross Brancati

Ross Brancati

Ross Brancati is a PhD candidate at UMass Amherst studying biomechanics. Originally from Tolland, Connecticut, Ross completed his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the University of Connecticut in biomedical engineering. He became interested in biomechanics when he was working in a motion capture lab at UConn. Eventually, he relocated to Ann Arbor, MI where he worked as a research assistant in an orthopedic biomechanics lab at the University of Michigan. Following his time as a research assistant at the University of Michigan, Ross began his studies at UMass Amherst in the Kinesiology Department. His work and research on patellofemoral pain syndrome was recently published in the Journal of Sports Science. He is currently working on his dissertation project which aims to explore and identify subgroups within the general population of individuals with patellofemoral pain syndrome (also known as anterior knee pain). Additionally, he plans to develop a machine-learning model using wearable sensor data to classify such identified subgroups. Ross was a lifelong athlete, eventually playing ice hockey at the University of Connecticut for their club team. His interest in athletics and movement science sparked him to pursue a graduate degree in biomechanics. He also developed a keen interest in data science when he arrived at UMass amidst the pandemic, which initiated his studies in this field. He hopes that his dissertation project incorporating biomechanical analysis and data science approaches can improve clinical diagnosis and treatment of patellofemoral pain. In his free time, Ross likes to spend time outdoors with his yellow lab Bailey, golfing, snowboarding, and hanging out at the beach. After graduation, Ross plans to pursue a career in data science and wearable technology, specifically related to improving human performance.

This scholarship means so much to me as it will help me with costs related to my dissertation that are required to develop large datasets to make my goals possible. I thank you for your generous donation. Without this scholarship, it would be challenging to pursue this dissertation.

Ann-Marie Sylvia

Ann-Marie Sylvia

Ann-Marie Sylvia is a first-generation doctoral candidate in the Kinesiology program. She holds a Master’s in Exercise Science from Bridgewater State University and an MPH in Epidemiology from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Her research focuses on the intersection of physical activity and neurodivergence, particularly ADHD and autism. She hopes her current and future work will help elevate physical activity as a support service to improve health outcomes and overall quality of life for neurodivergent populations. Ann-Marie is an avid runner, completing 64 half-marathons in 37 different states. Additionally, along with her husband, Robert Cordeiro, Ann-Marie is a current Guinness World Record Holder for completing 11 half-marathons, in 11 days, in 11 different states as a married couple. Upon graduation, Ann-Marie plans to seek a faculty position and continue her physical activity research for neurodivergent populations.

I was honored and thrilled to learn of this award, and I am deeply appreciative of your generous support. As a doctoral candidate, completing my dissertation, this scholarship will greatly impact my success by allowing me the financial support to purchase supplies for my final study this summer. Thank you once again for your incredible generosity. It has made a significant impact and contribution, not only to my studies but also to moving the field of physical activity for neurodivergent populations forward.

The Rouzier Family Pre-Health Professional Scholarship

Marykate Callinan

Marykate Callinan

Marykate Callinan is set to graduate from the University of Massachusetts with a bachelor's degree in Kinesiology in May of 2025. She plans to use this degree to become a physical therapist or occupational therapist. She became interested in this career path after tearing her ACL in high school athletics. She hopes to use her experience to help others go through similar challenges. Currently, she works with UMass Amherst's division 1 hockey team as an assistant athletic trainer where she gets to apply some of her experience and education to help others.

I am incredibly grateful to be selected as a recipient of the Rouzier Family Pre-Health Professional Scholarship. This scholarship enables me to pursue my academic endeavors with less financial burden. I can dedicate my semester to focusing on my grades, engaging in my internship with the UMass Sports Medicine program, and gaining valuable experience as a teaching assistant. Without this scholarship, I would not have the opportunity to devote as much time to these endeavors, which are crucial for completing my undergraduate degree and establishing a career path for myself.

Paulina Encarnacion

Paulina Encarnacion

Paulina Encarnacion is a senior Kinesiology student at UMass Amherst. Paulina volunteered with Best Friends Fitness, supporting neurodiverse students with tailored workouts, and deepening her dedication to inclusive health. She has found purpose in serving others by sharing her experiences and knowledge to help them discover the athlete within themselves. After graduation, she hopes to gain more hands-on experience working with clients and build a company to reach underserved communities. She aspires to continue influencing and aiding others in leading healthier lifestyles.

Your contribution has not only alleviated a significant financial burden for me but has also allowed me to fully immerse myself in my internship experience. Your support has not only enabled me to pursue my educational and career aspirations but has also provided me with the confidence and assurance to continue this path. I am grateful for your belief in me and for investing in my future.

Timothy Moynahan Award

Trey Peterson (at right) with retired Kinesiology faculty member Frank Rife

Trey Peterson

Trey Peterson will continue his education in the fall at the University of New England as he works toward obtaining his master's in athletic training with a goal of working in professional or collegiate hockey.

I am grateful for my journey here at UMass. Thank you so much to the donors and those who nominated me for this award. I will do my best to keep pushing through life the same Timothy Moynahan did when he was with us. 

Helen S. Mitchell Graduate Scholarship

Mengling Cao

Mengling Cao

Mengling Cao is a second-year nutrition graduate student with a bachelor's degree in biology. She just finished her master's program with DPD here at UMass Amherst.  She believes nutrition plays a huge role in people's lives, yet it is still a developing field. She will be doing her dietetic internship this fall.

It is a great honor to receive the Helen S. Mitchell Scholarship, and I thank you for choosing me. It has been a great two years here at UMass, and I will never forget the help I received throughout my learning journey at UMass.

Rong Fan

Rong Fan

Rong Fan is a Ph.D. Candidate in the Department of Nutrition at UMass Amherst. Rong’s research interest is in understanding dietary and therapeutic strategies that enhance brown adipose tissue energy expenditure to combat obesity and its associated metabolic complications. Her dissertation focuses on the effects of fish oil supplementation and heat treatment on post-menopausal obesity and metabolic health. Rong's short-term professional goal is to stay in academia, become a professor in nutrition, and conduct research that advances obesity studies while inspiring the next generation of graduate students. Ultimately, she aims to expand the field of obesity prevention by promoting a deep understanding of nutrition and obesity metabolism. Additionally, Rong enjoys reading, hiking, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen as she pursues a balanced lifestyle for health and wellness.

I wish to express my heartfelt appreciation for the scholarship and the incredible opportunity to pursue my career aspirations. Your support has been instrumental in guiding me toward a path of excellence and success in academia. Inspired by your generosity, I am determined to achieve my goals and, in turn, help and inspire others in the future.

Helen S. Mitchell Undergraduate Scholarship

Caroline Moran

Caroline Moran

Caroline Moran has just completed her bachelor’s degree in nutrition with a focus in Dietetics. She will be in the 4+1 MS in Nutrition program in Fall 2024. As an undergraduate student, Caroline worked as a teaching assistant for the Student Nutritionist Program, Nutrition 130, and as a peer advisor. Over the summer, she will become a co-researcher on a study advocating for summer lunch programs in upstate New York and is continuing a position at her local farmers’ market. Her goal is to become a Registered Dietitian with the hope of eventually starting a private practice. These aspirations align with her goal of dismantling dieting behaviors in the public and advocating for health at every size. She is filled with gratitude over being selected for the Helen S. Mitchell Scholarship and is eager to continue her education through the pursuit of a master’s degree.

It can take a community to foster just one person’s education, and it is incredibly inspiring to know that you have taken the initiative to continuously invest in students’ futures. Receiving this scholarship truly is an affirmation of the hard work I have put in over the past few years and provides motivation as I move ahead to obtain a master’s degree.

Peter L. Pellett Scholarship

Mengqi Duan

Mengqi Duan

Mengqi Duan is a second-year Ph.D. student in the Department of Nutrition at UMass Amherst. She finished her master's in nutrition and epidemiology at the University at Buffalo, and undergraduate studies in Food Safety at the Northeast Agricultural University in China. Her research direction is mainly focusing on nutritional epidemiology. After graduation, she would like to stay in academia or start research and development in a nutraceutical company.

Thank you very much for your support and generosity in providing us with the opportunity and Peter L. Pellet Scholarship!

Yingxue Guan

Yingxue Guan

Yingxue Guan is a doctoral student in nutrition at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, specializing in the study of dietary influences on gut health. Her focused research is on the effects of Cannabidiol (CBD) on colon cancer cells and the dietary impacts of mushrooms on gut health in mice. With the severity of gut-related problems, she chose to work in this field. Yingxue has complemented her studies with roles as a research and teaching assistant, demonstrating proficiency in experimental techniques and data analysis. She enjoys nature, hiking, and other sports hobbies. After graduation, she will continue research as a life-long career.

Thank you for your financial support. Your generosity not only assists me in achieving my academic goals but also inspires me to give back to the community. I aspire to one day provide the same support to other students, helping them reach their educational objectives as you have helped me.

Virginia A. Beal Graduate Scholarship

Yuanyuan Deng

Yuanyuan Deng

Yuanyuan Deng is a first-year Ph.D. student in the Nutrition program. Her hobbies include reading literary works and outdoor jogging. Yuanyuan’s research focuses on nutritional epidemiology and how consuming fruits and vegetables affects male reproductive health issues such as prostate and bladder cancers. After graduating from UMass, Yuanyuan hopes to work in the publishing industry, using books or mass media to educate the public and share interesting nutritional knowledge. These programs advocate consuming increased amounts of fruits as a preventive strategy to foster healthier eating habits and boost awareness among the general population.

The scholarship has been a source of pride and joy for my family. They are thrilled and proud of my achievements, and the financial support has provided them with a sense of relief. My goal is to make the most of my time at UMass, enjoying every moment as I work towards earning my Ph.D. I am committed to utilizing the resources and opportunities available here to achieve my dreams. In conclusion, your generosity has made a significant impact on my life and my academic journey. I cannot express enough how much I appreciate your support. Thank you for believing in me and helping me get closer to my goals.

Vi Vien Khoo

Vi Vien Khoo

Vivien Khoo is a doctoral candidate whose research focuses on the importance of maternal nutrition during pregnancy and how it impacts a child’s neurocognitive outcome. Besides pursuing research, Vivien also enjoys cooking and hiking with her dog.

This fellowship not only provides much needed financial support but also affirms my research and academic pursuits. The support from this fellowship will allow me to focus on completing my studies and research. Thank you once again for your generous support for investing in my future. I am eager to uphold the stands of excellence associated with this prestigious fellowship. 

Judy Kim

Judy Kim

Judy Kim is pursuing a Ph.D. in the Department of Nutrition where she conducts groundbreaking research on nutrition and metabolic disease studying how repeated weight cycling with a ketogenic diet affects weight maintenance, insulin sensitivity, and lipid metabolism. Also, she's exploring how dietary compounds like cranberry proanthocyanidin and esculetin impact neuronal regulation, energy metabolism, and the gut microbiome to counter these metabolic effects.

Receiving this scholarship is a great honor. It motivates me to continue striving for academic excellence. Your belief in my potential and your investment in my education have provided me with a renewed sense of confidence and determination. The Virginia A. Beal Graduate Fellowship enables me to focus more on my studies and engage in various opportunities that will enhance my educational experience.  I am committed to making the most of this opportunity.

Virginia A. Beal Undergraduate Scholarship

Jenna Linehan

Jenna Linehan

Jenna Linehan is a recent UMass graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition. As a member of the UMass Nutrition Association (UMNA) she has served as both treasurer and vice president. Additionally, she is a member of the Student Nutritionist Program where she leads one-on-one nutrition counseling sessions with students and faculty. On campus, Jenna worked for UMass Residential Life Student Services and is currently a Certified Pharmacy Technician at UHS Pharmacy. Upon graduation, Jenna is going to return to UMass for the accelerated 4+1 MS Nutrition program, and then venture into a dietetic internship in the pursuit of becoming a registered dietitian nutritionist. Jenna’s areas of interest include pediatric nutrition, intuitive eating, and general health and well-being.

I kindly thank you for your generosity and for seeing my potential in this field. One of the biggest reasons I chose this field was my desire to help people. I am thrilled to be one step closer to achieving my dream of becoming a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist. I sincerely thank you for selecting me for this award. I hope to make you proud!

Therese (Tess) Patry

Therese Patry

Tess Patry recently graduated from the School of Public Health and Health Sciences majoring in nutrition and society. Since high school, Tess played various sports and always had an interest in exercise and health which sparked her enthusiasm for nutrition. She is deeply passionate about promoting health and wellness. During last winter break she was Content Marketing Manager for a nutritional initiative, Eat to Thrive, within a program called Real Kids Real Food. In this role, she created content strategies that aligned with the nutritional program goals, crafted presentations that educated children and adults on healthy eating habits, and promoted the program by engaging the target audience through multiple social media platforms.

This scholarship will help me to achieve the goals I have set for myself and ultimately make a positive change in our community’s health. Thank you once again for the generous donation. I greatly appreciate your kindness, which will help support my future career in the health industry.

Christiana Sheldon

Christiana Sheldon

Christiane Sheldon is a full-time student working full-time at Mercy Medical Center as a Nutrition Assistant. Christy has begun shadowing her supervisor and dietitians on their rounds. She made the Dean’s List for two semesters. Christy begins the 4 + 1 Accelerated Master's in Nutrition program at UMass Amherst in the Fall of 2024. Christy’s goal is to become a Registered Dietitian in a clinical setting.

I want to express my sincere gratitude for being selected as a recipient of the Virginia Beal Award. It is an honor which will greatly help fund my education expenses at UMass Amherst. Your support has not only eased the financial burden associated with pursuing my education, but it has also inspired me to continue to strive for excellence while focusing on my future goals. Thank you again for choosing me as a recipient of this prestigious scholarship. I am truly grateful for your generosity.

Harry and Charlena Seymour Scholarship for Diversity

Gloria Joung

Gloria Joung

Gloria Joung has recently completed her first year double majoring in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences and Psychology. She volunteered in the Language, Intersensory Perception, and Speech Lab under Dr. Alexandra Jesse and regularly attended National Student Speech Language Hearing Association meetings to learn about speech and language disorders. Her initial dream to pursue psychology and speech, language, and hearing sciences was inspired by growing up volunteering at local homeless shelters and childcare centers. After graduation, she plans to pursue a master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology or Linguistics to assist non-native speakers or those with speech impediments. In addition to her academic pursuits, she serves by singing in the worship team at her local church and volunteering in community activities organized by the Navigators and InterVarsity.

Thank you for making it possible for me to receive the Harry and Charlena Seymour Scholarship for Diversity. The chance to pursue my dreams without financial burden has been made possible by generous donors like you. I appreciate your generosity and consideration for students like me. 

Monica Silva

Monica Silva

Monica Silva is an upcoming junior from Riverhead, New York, studying Speech Language and Hearing Sciences and Linguistics. When home, she works as a Special Education Aide at the Westhampton Beach Learning Center, assisting children with developmental disabilities to receive the best school experience possible.

It is an honor to receive the Henry and Charlena Seymour Scholarship. I hope to motivate other Spanish and English speakers to join the field, to see how their presence can positively influence a child’s life.

Kimberly Ann Soucy Scholarship

Declan Kelly

Declan Kelly

Declan Kelly recently graduated from UMass Amherst with a Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences. Declan is from Lexington, MA, and is a student in MGH’s Doctor of Audiology program in Boston, MA. His interest in audiology comes from how people communicate and sound science. His hobbies include filmmaking, playing the drums, rock climbing, and spending time with friends and family. He hopes to complete his doctorate program and work in the Boston area as an audiologist.

Thank you for making it possible for me to receive the Kimberly Ann Soucy Scholarship. My experiences in the department with faculty and peers led me to find audiology as the career I wanted to pursue. This award further affirms my choice and is a significant and generous help to pursuing my graduate level studies.

Miriam P. Romo Award

Mitchell Paige

Mitchell Paige

Mitchell Paige is a senior at the University of Massachusetts Amherst pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences. With a strong academic record, and consistently making the Dean’s List, Mitchell has demonstrated a dedication to excellence. His passion for audiology was ignited during his service in the Army National Guard, where he witnessed firsthand the impact of hearing impairments on fellow service members. This experience, coupled with the inspiring work of his mother, a special education advocate, solidified his commitment to the field. After graduation, Mitchell plans to attend graduate school to obtain an AuD in Audiology, aiming to make a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals with hearing-related challenges. In his spare time, he volunteers with Horizons for Homeless Children and enjoys outdoor activities.

I am incredibly grateful for the generous scholarship support, which has been instrumental in allowing me to pursue my studies in Speech Language and Hearing Sciences. This scholarship not only eases some of the financial burden but also motivates me to strive for excellence in my academic and professional journey. With your support, I am one step closer to my goal of attending graduate school to become an audiologist. Thank you for your support and believing in my potential.