Incoming CPPA graduate student Jenni Smith is one of twenty five students nationally selected to become a 2010 Point Foundation Scholar. Point scholars are offered academic scholarships and chosen to participate in leadership programs and professional conferences throughout the year.
“The financial portion of the award is really secondary to the leadership trainings, opportunities in networking, and mentoring,” says Smith, who will work toward a certificate in Advanced Feminist Studies in addition to her Master of Public Policy.
Besides the scholarship and leadership training offered through the Point program, Point Scholars are also assigned mentors who offer guidance on service projects and academic and career goals. M.V. Lee Badgett, Professor of Economics and Director of CPPA at UMass, will serve as Smith’s mentor.
“I am honored to have been chosen as a 2010 Point Scholar,” Smith says. ” I am looking forward to the trainings and events and to meeting others involved with Point. The Point Foundation offers opportunities for leadership and involvement with community leaders that is often not available to certain students, and I am excited to be a part of this select group.”
The Point Foundation is a national organization that provides financial support, leadership training, mentoring, and hope to lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals who are marginalized because of their sexual orientation, gender identity and/or gender expression. Visit the Point website for more information.
Click here to read a complete press release about the 2010 Point Scholars.
Photo credit: Point Foundation