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Mount Saint Mary’s University honored the generosity of donors and the transformative power of scholarships at the annual President’s Scholarship Appreciation Luncheon on February 20, 2025, at the Chalon Campus. The event brought together over 200 alumnae, donors, students and University leaders to celebrate the life-changing impact of scholarships for deserving students.

Alexis Fernandez ‘25, a junior majoring in business administration with an emphasis in marketing and minoring in psychology, served as the event’s emcee, guiding attendees through an inspiring program filled with gratitude, student success stories and University updates.

The Power of Scholarships

President Ann McElaney-Johnson, PhD, emphasized the growing importance of scholarships in today’s shifting economic and workforce landscape. “Mount Saint Mary’s has long been at the forefront of cultivating leadership, fostering resilience, and advancing opportunities for students who go on to shape their communities and industries,” she said. “Yet, for too many aspiring students, financial barriers stand in the way of this opportunity.”

Thanks to the generosity of donors, the University awarded $7.5 million in direct aid to over 500 students in fiscal year 2024 and established four new scholarships, ensuring that more students can pursue their academic and professional dreams.

“As we navigate today’s challenges, philanthropy and institutional support for scholarships remain essential to sustaining our legacy of creating spaces where bold ideas take root, critical thinking is championed, and where every student is given the support they need to thrive,” President McElaney-Johnson continued.

Students’ Experiences

The luncheon provided a meaningful opportunity for Mount alumnae and supporters to connect with current students and hear firsthand how scholarships have shaped their educational journeys.

A highlight of the event was a student panel discussion moderated by Christie De La Gándara, PhD, director of Campus Ministry & Spirituality. The conversation introduced The Creative Collective, a new living-learning community on campus designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and academic growth. First-year students Edidiong Akpakpen, Jariah “Roxy” Bynum, Amy Elias, Kaylee Motus, Dulce Romero and Julia Silveira shared their experiences at the Mount, their creative endeavors, and how scholarship support has allowed them to pursue their passions.

“Joining the Creative Collective has deepened my understanding of art as a reflection of life,” said Dulce Romero ‘28, a pre-nursing major and a dancer. “Being part of this small yet powerful community has helped me grow. It has reinforced my belief that art is a bridge between self and spirit, movement and meaning, experience and expression.”

Honoring Unstoppable Supporter and Scholar Award recipients

Each year, the luncheon recognizes members of the Mount community whose contributions have made a significant impact on student success through scholarship support. The 2025 Unstoppable Supporter Award was presented to Michelle Melanson ‘75 for her dedication to empowering students through philanthropy.

One of the first Mount graduates with a bachelor’s degree in liberal studies with an emphasis in business, Michelle has remained a steadfast supporter of the Mount since her graduation. She serves on the Regents Council and is a member of the Heritage Society and Le Puy Society.

Through her philanthropy, she hopes to inspire alumnae to give back in any way they can. “When you share your gifts and talents with our students, you truly are helping them cross bridges to fulfilling their dreams,” she said.

The Unstoppable Scholar Award, which honors an outstanding student who exemplifies perseverance and excellence, was awarded to Shirley Espinoza ’25, a social work major with a psychology minor. After graduating this spring, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in social work and launch her career assisting families experiencing perinatal trauma. 

At the Mount, Shirley has gained experience lobbying for social work policies, successfully conducted independent research, and served as president of the Mount Honors Program. She is also a Community Student Ambassador at Sacred Heart High School, where she helps students navigate the college application process and develop stress and time management skills.

“I owe much of my success here to the scholarships and donors who made it possible for me to attend the Mount,” said Shirley. “The unconditional support from many faculty and staff helped me discover my passion for social work and my commitment to this field.”