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2023-2024 Foundation Scholarship Winners
The Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation is pleased to award 54 sisters scholarships and educational grants as a part of the Foundation's annual scholarship program. This year, the Foundation is pleased to award two new scholarships: The Charlie and Chris Senseney Scholarship and the Dakota Everett Schmidt Memorial Scholarship.
Thanks to the generosity of our donors, the Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation is able to give thousands of dollars worth of scholarship and grant money to collegians and alumnae each year. In support of our Founders' mission "the advancement of womanhood," these funds enable sisters to achieve excellence, impact their communities and change the world.
Please join us in recognizing this year's winners:
NAMED SCHOLARSHIPS
CHARLIE AND CHRIS SENSENEY SCHOLARSHIP
First Year of Distribution
The Charlie and Chris Senseney Scholarship was established in honor of Charlie and Chris Senseney. This scholarship is awarded to sisters who are aiming towards a career in public service including law, government service or criminal justice – fields that were close to both Chris and Charlie’s hearts.
Awarded to Lexia Blake, Gamma Zeta Chapter at The University of Rhode Island
DAKOTA EVERETT SCHMIDT MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
First Year of Distribution
Established in memory of Dakota Everett Schmidt, son of MacKenzie Schmidt, Theta Upsilon Chapter at the University of La Verne, and all babies who have passed away too soon. This scholarship is awarded to sisters who are aiming towards a career in health and human services, including medical, nursing, health sciences, psychology, sociology and anthropology with an emphasis on women’s health in the area of neonatal and pregnancy loss.
Awarded to Emma Adams, Theta Psi Chapter at Alma College
HELEN BERKOWITZ MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Established by Rachel and Valerie Berkowitz in memory of their mother, Helen Berkowitz. This scholarship was created to ensure Helen's memory and love for education, the Fraternity and her beloved Nu Chapter at the University of Pennsylvania where she served as chapter advisor for many years, would live on. It is awarded primarily on the basis of academic achievement and contribution to sorority and community activities.
Awarded to Meaghan Woods, Epsilon Theta Chapter at Montclair State University
"I am honored to be selected as the 2023-2024 recipient of the Helen Berkowitz Memorial Scholarship. I am proud to receive an award that represents academic excellence and community contributions as these have been the most important aspects of my college experience. Phi Sigma Sigma has given me so much and this award will allow me to continue my education by giving back to my chapter and my community." - Meaghan Woods
MARCIE BERSON SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP
Established by Marcie Sabrin Berson, Beta Chapter at Tufts University, this scholarship supports sisters who have true financial need, demonstrate strong academic achievement and are committed to service through volunteering, strong chapter participation or high levels of involvement in their campus community.
Awarded to Peggy Kern, Theta Chapter at the University of Illinois at Urbana -Champaign
"I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for choosing me as the recipient of the Marcie Sabrin Berson Service Scholarship. As an esteemed alum of Phi Sigma Sigma, I feel privileged and humbled to have been bestowed with this honor. Thank you once again for recognizing my hard work and dedication. I am excited to continue serving my community and making a positive impact." - Peggy Kern
ARIEL ROSE BLACK MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Established by the Theta Iota chapter of Phi Sigma Sigma in memory of their beloved sister, Ariel Rose Black. Ariel was dedicated, hardworking, and aimed high in all that she did. Ariel served her chapter as the scholarship chair, transforming the role of excellence in scholarship within her chapter. This scholarship will be awarded annually to a sister of the Theta Iota chapter who emulates Ariel's commitment to all facets of her life including scholarship, chapter contributions and involvement in her community.
Awarded to Ali Barto, Theta Iota Chapter at the University of Michigan - Flint
VEACHEY R. BLOOM SCHOLARSHIP
Established by Past Grand Archon Veachey R. Bloom (Xi Chapter at Temple University), this award is presented to a Phi Sigma Sigma pursuing a degree in business or a related field with preference given to Human Resources majors. The award is based on service to the community and campus, service to sorority and fraternity/sorority life. Awarded to Olivia Surian, Gamma Nu Chapter at Rutgers University - New Brunswick
"Being awarded this scholarship means the world to me and my family. I do not have enough words to express how truly grateful I am for this award. I hope to make you all proud by continuing to not only work hard in my senior year, but by also embodying the strength and kindness of every Phi Sigma Sigma sister." - Olivia Surian
NICOLE HODGINS CAGLE MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
This scholarship honors the memory of Epsilon Phi chapter sister Nicole Hodgins Cagle, and is available to undergraduate and graduate sisters. This fund was established to remember an Epsilon Phi Chapter founder, Nicole Marie Hodgins Cagle and to celebrate the Epsilon Phi chapter’s 25th anniversary. Selection of scholarship recipients will be based equally on chapter involvement, campus involvement, community involvement and grade point average, with preference given to Epsilon Phi sisters.
Awarded to Olivia Bruce, Epsilon Chi Chapter at Indiana University Southeast
CENTENNIAL SCHOLARSHIP
The Centennial Scholarship was established by the Centennial Club donors in honor of the 100th anniversary of the founding of Phi Sigma Sigma as a lasting and generous scholarship that will be awarded annually to a deserving sister so that she may achieve her educational dreams. It is awarded to the Phi Sigma Sigma sister who has demonstrated an "above and beyond" commitment to the Fraternity. The annual recipient is selected based equally on the sister's chapter, campus and community involvement, as well as her outstanding academic achievement. Awarded to Elizabeth Ashley, Theta Iota Chapter at the University of Michigan - Flint
"I would like to thank you for this generous opportunity of financial support to continue my academics as an undergraduate student. Knowing that I have the support of such a fantastic community behind me even in times of struggle is something I am forever appreciative of. As I go into my last year as an undergraduate student, I want to be sure my mindset is on success and not survival, unlike in previous years where I was working multiple jobs while studying full-time to support my own living expenses. This year, however, I am fortunate enough to be able to focus on my academics and my sisterhood without worrying about making my next tuition bill or the future of my membership within Phi Sigma because I cannot afford them thanks to the generous donors to this scholarship. With the support of Phi Sigma Sigma, what once was a dream is soon becoming a reality for me. Following graduation next year, I hope to accept a teaching position and begin my search for a master's program in social work, with the goal of becoming a social worker with a specialization in behavioral differences. I am excited to see what this next year will bring for me as I prepare to pass on my wisdom as a Phi Sigma woman to the new generation, and I cannot wait to one day be able to give back to the chapter who helped me to succeed." - Elizabeth Ashley
ERIN DAGENAIS SCHOLARSHIP
The Erin Dagenais Memorial Book Award has been established by Theta Iota Chapter, University of Michigan – Flint to honor chapter sister Erin, who passed away in 2016. This scholarship is available for undergraduate and graduate students, based on service in the sorority, service in fraternity/sorority life, service in the community, service on campus and GPA.
Awarded to Madyson Kosar, Zeta Chi Chapter at Stevenson University
CRISTINA EL SHAHAWI MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
This scholarship honors the memory of Epsilon Kappa chapter sister Cristina El Shahawi who passed away in a car accident in 2013. During her time as a collegian, Cristina served as membership recruitment chairman (MRC). Her fun, laidback and easy going personality was a joy to be around. This scholarship honors her legacy and the impact she left on so many.
Awarded to Sophia Brunet, Iota Phi Chapter at Lindenwood University
MICHELLE STACEY FRIEDMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Established in memory of a Michelle, a founding sister of the Epsilon Theta Chapter at Montclair State (NJ), who had an unyielding love for her sorority, sisters and fraternity/sorority life. The Michelle Stacey Friedman Scholarship was funded by her friends, sisters and family, and is presented to the sister who has shown exemplary service and leadership in Phi Sigma Sigma, on her campus and in the community. Awarded to Samantha Hess, Zeta Delta Chapter at Bentley University
JEANINE JACOBS GOLDBERG SCHOLARSHIP
When Past Grand Archon Jeanine Jacobs Goldberg (Nu Chapter at University of Pennsylvania) retired from Supreme Council in 1985, Phi Sigma Sigma established this scholarship in honor of her outstanding service and never-ending dedication to the Fraternity. This scholarship is awarded to a sister who is pursuing a post-graduate degree, with preference to those pursuing a law degree, and who exhibit high academic achievement and unselfish dedicated service to Phi Sigma Sigma.
Awarded to Jillian Floyd, Epsilon Theta Chapter at Montclair State University
NEREYDA INIQUEZ MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
This scholarship was created by the sisters of the Theta Upsilon Chapter of Phi Sigma Sigma in order to celebrate their sister, Nereyda "Neddie" Iniguez's life. Neddie passed away at the age of 21 after a long bout with leukemia. Despite being diagnosed with this disease, Neddie's positivity, vibrant personality, and love of life was contagious. Collegians and graduates attending school full-time are eligible and the scholarship is awarded primarily on the basis of contribution to the sorority.
Awarded to Mackenzie Garden, Delta Zeta Chapter at Stevens Institute of Technology
"Not everyone can go to college, join a sorority or continue their education for a post-graduate degree. Making these decisions is hard and stressful, and I often second-guess my choices. The Phi Sigma Sigma community's continued support of my education has helped me to know I made the right choices. This scholarship helps to ease one of the biggest stressors of deciding to continue my education. This support allows me to focus more on my academics and feel comfortable in my decision knowing there is a whole community of women supporting me. Thank you!" -Mackenzie Garden
JOSETTE GEORGE KAUFMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Established in memory of Past Grand Archon and NPC Delegate, Josette George Kaufman (Beta Psi at University of Florida). Through her dedication and involvement in the Fraternity, the interfraternal community, and her local community, Josette was a true servant leader - a sister who put the needs of others first and helped people develop and perform to their fullest potential. This scholarship was created to support collegiate and alumnae students who embody Josette's spirit and will be awarded based on involvement in the Panhellenic community as well as service to Phi Sigma Sigma and the local community. Awarded to Madison Brown, Gamma Iota Chapter at Worcester Polytechnic Institute
MAMIE KLEIN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Established in honor of the late Mamie Shulkin Klein (Pi Chapter at Syracuse University), past Executive Secretary and Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation President. Through her dedication and active participation in the Fraternity, Mamie Klein exemplified the true Phi Sigma Sigma - a sister who gives of herself, to her chapter, and to the sorority. Collegians and graduates attending school full-time are eligible and the scholarship is awarded primarily on the basis of contribution to the sorority.
Awarded to Ali Cruickshank, Iota Zeta Chapter at the University of Minnesota - Duluth
LA COUNTY ALUMNAE CHAPTER SCHOLARSHIP
Established by the Los Angeles County Alumnae Chapter of Phi Sigma Sigma. This book award is given annually to a sister who has shown outstanding leadership to the sorority and campus as well as service to her community. Preference will be giving to a sister who is a resident of or attending a school in Los Angeles County. Awarded to Grace Giambalvo, Iota Rho Chapter at St. Joseph's University
SUNSHINE STATE SCHOLARSHIP
Funded by the South Florida Alumnae Chapter of Phi Sigma Sigma, the scholarship supports a Phi Sigma Sigma attending school in the state of Florida. This is the first Foundation scholarship endowed by an alumnae chapter.
Awarded to Nina Lozovnoy, Theta Xi Chapter at Nova Southeastern University
LINDSEY ORSER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Established by the Delta Delta Chapter at Linfield College wishing to honor the memory of alumna Lindsey Orser. Lindsey was a beautiful young woman who would light up a room with her presence, personality and smile. Throughout her short life, she touched many people's lives, was compassionate for and loved others unconditionally. Lindsey was a friend to all. Preference will be given to a Delta Delta sister for this scholarship. This scholarship is presented to a member who demonstrates commitment to the Fraternity and its values above and beyond the norm based on service to sorority, community, campus and academics. Awarded to Ally Nicklous, Delta Delta Chapter at Linfield University
“Being a scholarship recipient of the Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation is truly a blessing. This scholarship will allow me to continue my higher education which I am truly grateful for. Phi Sigma Sigma has provided me with endless opportunities, resources and new friendships I didn’t think were possible. Thank you to everyone involved in the scholarship process and for choosing me as a recipient of the Lindsey Orser Memorial Scholarship and congrats to everyone else! I’m excited to continue at Linfield University in the fall, majoring in biology with a pre-med concentration, a neuroscience minor and leadership ethics minor. I plan to pursue medical school to be an orthopedic surgeon.” - Ally Nicklous
PAST GRAND ARCHON SCHOLARSHIP
Established upon Past Grand Archon's Judith Howard Distler's retirement from Supreme Council, this scholarship is awarded to juniors, seniors and post-graduate degree candidates and is based on continuing leadership and devotion to Phi Sigma Sigma. Judith Howard Distler is a member of the Zeta Chapter at University of California-Los Angeles. Recipients are recognized for exemplifying the ideals associated with our Past Grand Archons. Awarded to Sara Kempton, Iota Iota Chapter at Grand Valley State University
ERIN MICHELLE SAY MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
The sisters of Delta Chi established this Foundation scholarship in memory of their sister, Erin Michelle Say, who was a communications major at Shippensburg University. The scholarship is awarded to a sister pursuing her educational goals based on academic excellence, as well as service to sorority, campus and community.
Awarded to Haley Livingston, Gamma Psi Chapter at McDaniel College
ALLISON BETH SCHMIDT MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Allison Beth Schmidt served as archon of Delta Eta Chapter at the University of Delaware in 1991-92. The alumnae and collegians of Delta Eta endowed a Foundation scholarship in Allison's memory to ensure her legacy would carry on. This is awarded to a sister pursuing her educational goals based on service to sorority, campus and community.
Awarded to Emma Kiaie, Epsilon Epsilon Chapter California State University, Bakersfield
"I am extremely grateful to be this year's recipient of the Allison Beth Schmidt Memorial Scholarship. Phi Sigma Sigma has been key in my development as both a leader and a person. I truly would not be where I am today if it were not for Phi Sigma Sigma. Medical school was extremely scary for me to start, and this scholarship has provided me with the necessary tools to succeed in school! I hope to represent Phi Sigma Sigma well in the medical education system. I am forever grateful. Aim High sisters!" - Emma Kiaie
KATIE VASHON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Established by the Zeta Zeta Chapter at Quinnipiac University in loving memory of their sister Katie Vashon, this scholarship is awarded to a sister of the Zeta Zeta Chapter. Katie exemplified what it truly means to be a sister. She was a dedicated member of the chapter who worked hard to give back to the community. Katie also excelled in academics. Because Katie had great balance between dedication to the chapter, campus and community, the recipient must show exemplary service in these areas. Awarded to Madi Cresta, Zeta Zeta Chapter at Quinnipiac University
DR. HELEN VASSALLO SCHOLARSHIP
In honor of their long time Faculty Advisor, Dr. Helen Vassallo, the collegiate and alumnae sisters at Worcester Polytechnic Institute have established the Dr. Helen Vassallo Gamma Iota Scholarship. It is awarded to the Gamma Iota sister who has demonstrated an "above and beyond" commitment to the Fraternity and its core values. The annual recipient is selected based equally on the sister's chapter, campus and community involvement, as well as her outstanding academic achievement.
Awarded to Abby Cohen, Gamma Iota Chapter at Worcester Polytechnic Institute
"I would like to extend my gratitude to the scholarship committee and thank you for helping me in my pursuit of higher education! I am so thankful to be a part of Phi Sigma Sigma and will continue to aim high this coming academic year at Worcester Polytechnic Institute!" - Abby Cohen
KRISTINA WITTEN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Kristina Witten was a loved alumnae member of the Epsilon Chi Chapter at Indiana University Southeast who passed away on July 5, 2010 as a result of Cystic Fibrosis. She loved life and she showed it by getting out in the world and experiencing it. Kristina's death brought great sadness to those who knew her. For the sisters of the Kentuckiana Alumnae Chapter, and all who supported their efforts, establishing Kristina's scholarship helped turn that sadness into joy as Kristina's story teaches others not only about Cystic Fibrosis but about living every moment as if it were your last. Collegians and graduate students pursuing a career in the medical field are eligible for this scholarship which is awarded on academic achievement and community service.
Awarded to Tenley Pelot, Gamma Psi Chapter at McDaniel College
"It is an honor to be awarded the Kristina Witten Memorial Scholarship. As I continue to pursue a career as a physician assistant, I hope to carry on the legacy of Kristina through this scholarship. As a member of the Gamma Psi Chapter, I hope to make my sisters and this organization proud of my hard work and dedication to my chapter and my career. This scholarship has eased a financial burden. and I could not be more grateful for this opportunity to represent this organization. Thank you for believing in me and for awarding me with this scholarship. LITP." - Tenley Pelot
ALI WARD MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Established by the sisters of the Delta Iota Chapter at Central Michigan University in loving memory of their sister, Ali Ward. Funding for this scholarship has been provided by the sisters of the Delta Iota Chapter and Ali's parents, Tom and Carol. As an only child, Ali loved every aspect of fraternity/sorority life, but especially finding "Forever Sisters." She was a radiant soul, who touched so many lives in a positive way. This scholarship is awarded based on service to Phi Sigma Sigma, campus and community.
Awarded to Ashley Griffith, Delta Iota Chapter at Central Michigan University
BETA ALPHA NICOLE SCHIFFMAN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Established by the Beta Alpha (University of Maryland) House Corporation and sisters wishing to honor the memory of collegian Nicole Schiffman, this scholarship is presented to a Beta Alpha member who demonstrates commitment to the Fraternity and its core values above and beyond the norm based on service to sorority, community, campus and Greek life.
Awarded to Emma Dall, Beta Alpha Chapter at the University of Maryland - College Park
"This award is very meaningful to me, and I am honored to have been chosen as the recipient. My own set of experiences as a child have inspired me to give back through my career choice of becoming a child psychologist, and this award will enable me to obtain the education I need to achieve my long-term goal of leaving a lasting impact on my patients." - Emma Dall
BEVERLY L. RICHMAN, MD SCHOLARSHIP
Established by Beverly L. (Prutkin) Richman, MD, Eta Chapter at University of Michigan, this scholarship is to enable others to pursue the career that she and her family have loved so much. This scholarship was established to financially assist a Phi Sigma Sigma graduate student who is pursuing a career to become a physician.
Awarded to Danielle Brazer, Gamma Nu Chapter at Rutgers University - New Brunswick
DANIELLE NGUYEN MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Danielle graduated with a degree in social work from Western Illinois University, and planned to work with abused women. To honor her, the sisters of Epsilon Psi established the scholarship to be awarded specifically to a Phi Sigma Sigma pursuing a career in social work. The scholarship is based on service to the community and campus, service to sorority and Greek life.
Awarded to Sophia Scott, Iota Phi Chapter at Lindenwood University
MARIA ARENA MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP
Funded by the Delta Zeta (Stevens Institute of Technology) Housing Corporation this scholarship is restricted to women majoring in engineering and the sciences. It was the first Foundation scholarship to be endowed by a housing corporation, and was established in memory of Maria Arena, an alumna of the Delta Zeta Chapter at Stevens Institute of Technology. The scholarship is awarded to the most qualified applicant based on academic achievement in the area of engineering, as well as service to sorority, campus and community.
Awarded to Claire Corrigan, Theta Chapter at the University of Illinois at Urbana -Champaign
"I want to thank you for this scholarship. I understand that there are many qualified candidates, and I am extremely honored to have been chosen. I value my education and love learning, especially when it is about something I’m passionate about. College gives me the opportunity to foster that passion and I don’t take that lightly. I understand how much of a privilege it is not only to be at the school, but in the engineering program. This scholarship will help me immensely to be able to focus on school and taking advantage of all the amazing opportunities I’m surrounded by, rather than spending time trying to afford tuition." - Claire Corrigan
Chapter Educational Funds
BETA RHO SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded to Julin Sivriev, Beta Rho Chapter at Drexel University
DELTA IOTA SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded to Ella Schultz, Delta Iota Chapter at Central Michigan University
"I would like to thank the donors who funded this scholarship and all those that were awarded. Thank you for your generosity towards our sisterhood, our sisters and our futures. This scholarship is proof that you believe in my dreams. The scholarship will be used towards paying my tuition as I work towards my degree in electrical engineering. This scholarship has provided so much relief and an abundance of gratitude. I'd like to make an additional note of appreciation for the alum and donors from the Delta Iota Chapter. The chapter is full of love, encouragement and unwavering friendship." - Ella Schultz
DELTA LAMBDA SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded to Emily Plowright, Delta Lambda Chapter at Muhlenberg College
"I am excited to be working towards my M.A. and Ed.S. in clinical mental health counseling, and this award will help alleviate some of the financial burdens of attending graduate school. I will always be grateful for my experiences in Phi Sig, and I am truly honored as this grant will help me continue to make the most of my educational opportunities.” - Emily Plowright
DELTA THETA SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded to Maddie Valascho, Delta Theta Chapter at Oakland University
GAMMA NU SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded to Erin Mallory, Gamma Nu Chapter at Rutgers University - New Brunswick
"I am incredibly honored to be the recipient of the Gamma Nu Chapter Educational Fund for the 2023-2024 year. This scholarship will help me reach my goal of becoming a doctor and pursuing a career in obstetrics & gynecology. Phi Sigma Sigma has helped me learn and grow into the woman I am today and I am so thankful for the many opportunities this organization has brought to me. I could not do any of this without the continuous support from my sisters at Rutgers University. Thank you so much for this award and for making scholarships like these possible! I am so grateful!" - Erin Mallory
GAMMA TAU SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded to Mara Holifield, Gamma Tau Chapter at Northern Kentucky University
IOTA ZETA SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded to Jamie Wheeler, Iota Zeta Chapter at the University of Minnesota - Duluth
PI SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded to Hailee Posnock, Pi Chapter at Syracuse University
THETA CHI SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded to Kristiana Perris, Theta Chi Chapter at California State University, Sacramento
THETA PSI SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded to Sofia Heuerman, Theta Psi Chapter at Alma College
"This award will help me continue my education at the college I love and be with the people I love. This financial scholarship will help me get closer to finishing my degree and moving forward to get my master's degree. I deeply appreciate the Phi Sigma Sigma Foundation's board of directors and collegiate and alumnae donors for choosing me for the Theta Psi Educational Fund." - Sofia Heuerman
XI SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded to Julia Christian, Xi Chapter at Temple University
ZETA OMEGA SCHOLARSHIP
Awarded to Elise Schuler, Zeta Omega Chapter at the University of Michigan at Dearborn
EDUCATIONAL GRANTS
Awarded to:
Kaite Breen, Iota Xi Chapter at Sonoma State University
Sahar Dhanji , Theta Delta Chapter at the University of Illinois at Chicago
Kylie Hofstra, Theta Psi Chapter at Alma College
Claire Hull, Theta Chapter at the University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign
Rachel Jensen, Epsilon Alpha Chapter at Illinois State University
Manisha Kapoor, Delta Chi Chapter at Shippensburg University
Katarina Kunkle, Theta Beta Chapter at Coastal Carolina University
Morgan Seymour, Zeta Tau Chapter at Loyola University Chicago
Brooke Shumaker, Iota Phi Chapter at Lindenwood University
Frances Villarreal, Theta Upsilon Chapter at the University of La Verne
Renee Walters, Theta Chi Chapter at California State University, Sacramento
Lizzy Winn, Delta Lambda Chapter at Muhlenberg College