2024 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS
David Shiman Scholarship
Ayana Curran-Howes
Hailing from Kansas City, Ayana grew up rescuing dogs and attending protests, sparking an interest in building a life that centers care for her community. She went on to receive a BA in Biology from William Jewell College, a MS in Environment and Sustainability, and a Museum Studies Certificate from the University of Michigan. Today, she is a third-year Ph.D. student in Food Systems where she studies how labor, agroecology, and care manifest on alternative animal farms in Vermont, highlighting means for just transitions out of industrial animal agriculture. Understanding how socioecological values are prioritized and enacted, despite so many inhibiting factors under capitalism, is what drives her academic work, union work, and engagement in her community.
Jeffrey Brace Scholarships
Scarlett Espinoza
Scarlett Espinoza has been awarded the Jeffrey Brace Scholarship for her outstanding contributions to the University of Vermont's BIPOC community. Representing the Bronx, New York, Scarlett's leadership in Alianza was key in revitalizing the club and increasing attendance at cultural events and weekly general meetings. Her dedication extended to Living Well, where she initiated vital programs such as Coquito y Chisme and Pina Colada y Chisme – a discussed-based event addressing substance use culture among students of color attending a predominantly white institution. Scarlett's dedication to creating inclusive spaces exemplifies her commitment to community building and student well-being.
Olivia Berg
Olivia Berg is a dedicated social work student at the University of Vermont. She actively contributes to her community by working and volunteering as an EMT for three local ambulance companies and at a shelter for houseless individuals. Originally from New York City, where she was raised by her two dads along with her twin brother, Olivia has embraced the unique experiences Vermont offers, especially her passion for snowboarding. In her final year at UVM, Olivia will be interning with the Red Cross, gaining valuable hands-on experience with disaster relief efforts. Concurrently, she is pursuing her Advanced EMT license, further enhancing her skills in Emergency Medical Services. Olivia’s commitment to social work and emergency response exemplifies her dedication to supporting and uplifting her community.
Maggie Pierce
Maggie Pierce (she/her) is a recent social work and history graduate from UVM. During her senior year, Maggie co-facilitated debate classes in correctional facilities and organized public debates on pressing local issues like housing and environmental justice. She completed over 450 hours as a student extern in a legal clinic providing resources and support to non-citizens in the greater Vermont community. In the near future, Maggie is ecstatic to visit Tanzania for more debate before returning to social work in Burlington. She ultimately aspires to be an immigration attorney.