Dean Beverly Gulley and the School of Education are pleased to announce the winners of the Binder, Davis, Gallagher, Leake, and Malin Scholarships. *
The Scholarship Committee noted that it was very difficult to choose winners from this group of fine applicants. There were many outstanding essays and exemplary recommendations, as well as clear evidence of the development of scholars, lifelong learners, leaders, and reflective professionals dedicated to the pursuit of excellence - the hallmarks of the School of Education. We are very proud of all those students who applied. We thank them for sharing their stories, dreams and plans with the Scholarship Committee. We know that as they continue their journey at Saint Xavier University and in the teaching profession, those qualities highlighted in their applications will continue to be a source of pride for them and the School of Education.
The Dr. Dorothy Binder Endowed Graduate Scholarship is funded by donations in honor of the late Dr. Dorothy Binder. The tuition award this year will be approximately $1,611. The 2008 Binder Scholarship has been awarded to Mr. Jeremy Ekeler, of LaGrange, IL, a graduate student in the Educational Administration and Supervision program. Mr. Ekeler's recommendations described his passion for teaching and commitment to his students: "He is able to push them to their maximum learning potential." The Scholarship Committee recognizes Mr. Ekeler's commitment to excellence, hospitality, compassion, and service to others --- qualities that Dr. Binder personified in her life.
The Dorothy Ritter Davis Scholarship is funded by the estate of alumna Dorothy Davis. The tuition grant of approximately $7,200 for 2008 has been awarded to Ms. Stacey Kasprzyk of Chicago, IL, a graduate student in the Secondary Education, Biology program. Ms. Kasprzyk was described as a "born teacher" whose extensive volunteer work was an inspiration to others, and her faculty recommendation said that her commitment to excellence surpassed that of every other student in the instructor's experience. The Scholarship Committee recognizes Ms. Kasprzyk's academic excellence, compassion, service to her community, and appreciation of diversity --- core values celebrated by the Davis Scholarship.
The Elaine Gallagher Scholarship is funded by the estate of alumna Elaine Gallagher and donations made in her memory. The 2008 tuition grant of approximately $2,000 has been awarded to Ms. Shelby Stercic of Chicago, IL, an undergraduate student in the Secondary Education, Biology program. Her recommendation noted: "She epitomizes the roles of leader, coordinator, team player, and motivator." The Scholarship Committee recognizes Ms. Stercic's enthusiasm for teaching Science, love of learning, and demonstration of service --- qualities that Ms. Gallagher exemplified in her life.
The Dr. Lloyd Leake Scholarship is funded by the family and friends of the late Dr. Leake and provides a tuition grant for an African-American undergraduate student. The 2008 Leake Scholarship of approximately $2,700 has been awarded to Ms. Nikki Lacy of Addison, IL, a student in the Elementary Education program. Ms. Lacy's recommendation described her as "meticulous, dutiful, and tireless in her efforts to assist others." The Scholarship Committee recognizes Ms. Lacy's commitment to excellence, service, and integrity --- qualities that Dr. Leake exhibited throughout his life.
The Julius and Catherine Heerey Malin Scholarship is funded from the estate of Helen Heerey. The 2008 Malin tuition grant of approximately $4,000 has been awarded to Ms. Patricia Adaranijo of Tinley Park, IL, a graduate student in the Multi-Categorical Special Education program. Described as "an articulate, competent, experienced woman of excellence and integrity," Ms. Adaranijo is active in her church and the community, especially in activities to combat racism. The Scholarship Committee recognizes Ms. Adaranijo's exemplification of the qualities celebrated in the Malin Scholarship --- excellence, service, and integrity.
Dean Gulley and the faculty and staff of the School of Education join with the University community in congratulating the winners and thanking all of the students who submitted applications. It is a privilege to read the applications as we are again reminded of the high caliber of our students and their commitment to our profession.
We encourage students to submit entries for next year’s scholarships. Applications will be available in October 2008.
*Exact amount of tuition grants depends on available funds from endowments and individual student's account status.