We are pleased to announce the creation of a new scholarship, the Sandra Rogers Endowed Scholarship for Kennedy Scholars. This award honors Sandra Rogers, who served as International Vice President of BYU from 2001 to 2021. Funding for the scholarship was provided by Charles & Gloria Pope of the C&G Charitable Fund.
The scholarship functions as an extension of our Kennedy Scholars initiative. Aimed at Kennedy Center majors who embody the aims of the Kennedy Center and have an international focus, the Rogers Scholarship will provide a student with a generous stipend to cover tuition and books.
The inaugural winner of this scholarship is Libby Reynolds, a senior majoring in International Relations with minors in Civic Engagement Leadership and German. Reynolds has a strong interest in comparative politics and global religions, along with deep connections to Germany, having served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints there. She says, "While I am particularly interested in European politics, my focus extends beyond any specific region, and I hope to gain more experience with other parts of the world. I am fascinated by exploring global politics in the context of human rights and our fundamental need to be cared for."
In her time at BYU, she has been involved in a wide variety of internationally oriented activities, including the "International Politics Conflict & Cooperation" study abroad in Europe, Model United Nations, and the International Relations honor society. She's also been a Global Politics Fellow and president of the Civic Engagement Leadership Association. "These experiences have deepened my appreciation for the opportunities available at BYU and strengthened my commitment to giving back," she says. "I strive to be a 'connector and conduit,' helping other individuals connect with people, places, and groups that will enable learning and the achievement of goals both at BYU and beyond."
After graduation, Reynolds intends to work for a few years, then begin a PhD program in political science with plans to become a professor. "I have been very inspired by my professors and see the impact their research and knowledge brings to others in academic, political and collaborative realms," she says. "I also plan to remain very involved in interfaith relations and civic engagement opportunities."
Reflecting on the award, she says, "The Sandra Rogers Endowed Scholarship for Kennedy Scholars will help me achieve my dreams because it grants me the opportunity to focus on getting the most I can out of classes, research and experiential learning opportunities. I am certain that this scholarship will open doors that I am not even aware of yet, and in turn help me help others!"
Are you a Kennedy Center major interested in being considered for this award next year? Contact your program's faculty coordinator.