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When faced with challenging circumstances, it is not the time to falter or double down. On the contrary, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville School of Education, Health and Human Behavior (SEHHB) Dean Robin Hughes, PhD, believes it is the time to ramp up efforts. 

In light of varying economic fallout because of the COVID-19 pandemic, Hughes (accompanied by the School’s associate and assistant deans) led the charge to increase the number of scholarship awards given to SEHHB students. 

The School awards student scholarships annually in May. This spring, more than $26,000 in scholarships were given to over 70 students, which translates to the highest dollar amount and most awards in the School’s recent history. 

“We wanted to boost giving, because we recognize our students had financial needs as a result of the pandemic,” said Hughes. “Many college students are essential workers in public places that greatly reduced hours, and they need help.” 

Receiving a scholarship from the SEHHB held personal and professional rewards for Amanda Dermody, a senior majoring in elementary education. Dermody was awarded the Kendall Allida Douglas Memorial Scholarship. 

“The scholarship was particularly important to me because, it is connected to my academic program, and I also knew Kendall Douglas,” said Dermody, who plans to be an elementary school teacher. “I played softball with her, and she was a wonderful person who was devoted to the program.” 

Dermody also expressed her commitment to elementary education. “I love the field and enjoy teaching children,” she added. “It’s noble and rewarding work to help children, and I can think of no better way to do that than to help educate them.” 

Saidee Bushur, a graduate student majoring in speech language pathology, received the Dr. O. Eugene Maag Speech Pathology Scholarship. 

“By receiving this award, some of the stress of paying for school was taken off my plate,” said Bushur. “Therefore, this scholarship can allow me to better focus on my studies.” 

It’s Bushur’s hope that her degrees will allow her to realize a commitment she’s had since childhood. 

“Throughout my childhood and continuing today, my parents are licensed foster parents,” informed Bushur. “Many of the children who came into our care had to participate in speech therapy services. When I saw how much this therapy changed their lives and allowed them to express themselves, I knew what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.” 

“We want to be intentional, practical and generous in our giving,” shared Hughes, “and what better way to do that than to pay it forward with scholarships to students who will help shape a changing world.” 

Photos:
SEHHB Dean Robin Hughes, PhD.
SEHHB Kendall Allida Douglas Memorial Scholarship Winner Amanda Dermody, a junior majoring in elementary education.
SEHHB Dr. O. Eugene Maag Speech Pathology Scholarship Winner Saidee Bushur, a graduate student majoring in speech language pathology.