New endowed scholarship to support CU-Mansfield students studying abroad

The Mansfield University Mountaineer Foundation (MUMF) has announced the establishment of the Janice M. Kennedy/George W. Cass Scholarship - Americans to Study Abroad, funded by Will W. Kennedy, III.

This gift honors Kennedy's mother, Janice Kennedy, a 1946 Mansfield graduate and longtime home economics faculty member at Mansfield. She was deeply inspired by the words of Dr. George Cass, a former Mansfield sociology faculty member who, on the day of her graduation, told her, "I will help you, you will help others, and the help will never stop."

This endowed scholarship fund will support Commonwealth University-Mansfield students pursuing study abroad opportunities for at least one full semester, ensuring that deserving students have the resources they need to gain invaluable international experiences. Preference will be given to those with financial need. The selection of recipients will be made by the study abroad coordinator, in consultation with financial aid and the donor.

"We are deeply grateful to Mr. Kennedy for his incredible generosity. This scholarship will make a significant impact on the lives of our students, opening doors to international experiences that will enhance their education and personal growth," said Kate Billmeyer, senior director of philanthropy at the MUMF. "His commitment to honoring his mother's legacy through this fund reflects the very spirit of philanthropy and support that drives our mission."

Kennedy has committed a total of $27,000 to establish this scholarship. This includes a $25,000 endowment to create a permanent fund and an additional $2,000 for the early activation of the scholarship, allowing for immediate distribution to a student in the first year. The fund will be managed by the MUMF and will be awarded annually, starting this 2024-25 academic year with its first recipient being Ashley Newell '24.

"The greatest challenge I faced at Mansfield was learning to explore beyond the boundaries of my personal comfort. I believe this space is where true growth takes place, making foreign exchange opportunities an excellent addition to higher education," Newell said. "Mr. Kennedy's generosity will allow me to fulfill my dream of studying abroad, while continuing to learn in a truly financially accessible manner, and I can't thank him enough for this incredible opportunity."

Kennedy established the scholarship in memory of his mother, who always believed in the power of education and exploration. He hopes the fund will provide students with the opportunity to experience new cultures and broaden their horizons, just as his mother encouraged him to do. Kennedy feels it is a privilege to contribute to the future of these young scholars.

To support the Mansfield University Mountaineer Foundation's mission, visit mountaineerfdn.org.