Support In Every Corner

Student excels with the help of the SNHU community

BY KATIE DUGAN ’20G

GJ Morris of Manchester, New Hampshire, always knew she wanted to attend college, but when unexpected health problems arose, her medical bills began to pile up. Thanks to the generosity of donors, Morris received scholarships that would help her navigate a tough financial situation. “The scholarships I have received have helped me put more financial focus on paying [medical bills] without having to stress about paying for school,” Morris said. “It’s truly amazing to know that there are people so passionate about higher education that they are willing to donate to the next generation of college students, even ones they haven’t met face to face.” For the past three years, Morris has been part of the Alumni Engagement team as a student worker. In her role, Morris contributes to efforts that work to foster the SNHU alumni community. She has had a hand in running major university events like Global Days of Service and Homecoming Weekend. Between her personal health struggles and a global pandemic, Morris had a lot on her plate in addition to classes and work. Regardless, Morris was able to press on with encouragement from her supervisor, Alli Pudvah ’16, Associate Director of Alumni Engagement. “Whenever I’m given a new project to work on, Alli explains how my work will have an impact on the wider goals of our department and the university,” Morris said, “That has really cemented my passion for working with Alumni Engagement, and why I have stayed in this position throughout my time at SNHU. I feel that I am

contributing to SNHU and giving back to a university that has provided me with such great learning opportunities.” Not only has Pudvah helped Morris to see the value in their everyday work, but she has also remained a support system for Morris through each season of life as a college student. “Alli has been the most impactful person during my time at SNHU. I really see her as more of a mentor than anything, because she has been there for me for nearly every big decision or difficult period. Whether it’s helping me decide which residence hall to move in to, cheering me on before a final presentation for a class or helping me stay optimistic when I struggled with major health problems. Alli has just been so encouraging and understanding.” Thanks to scholarships and SNHU staff like Pudvah, Morris has been able to focus on getting the most out of her work with the Alumni Engagement team and taking advantage of all the opportunities that come her way.

“I believe it’s important to be involved with SNHU as a student because you’re going to get so much more out of your experience if you view SNHU as a community.”

Morris said, “Working with Alumni Engagement played a huge role in helping me realize that because I was able to see a lot of the behind-the-scenes work that contributes to fostering the community that SNHU has built. My experience here really shows the value of work-study jobs on campus.” As she enters her senior year, Morris is already thinking about her post-grad life, hoping to use the tools she has learned in her coursework and with Alumni Engagement. “After graduating, I want to use the skills I’ve gained from my business degree to work for a company or agency that benefits my community. I’ve recently taken interest in government jobs and nonprofit organizations, and I believe that’s what I’ll be most passionate about going forward.” Once she graduates, Morris will always have the Alumni Engagement team in her corner as she enters the working world. Luckily for Morris, she’ll also have support from fellow alumni even closer. Her mother, Aleshia Morris ’20, recently earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology online. “My mom has this innate ability to remain positive and stay optimistic in almost any situation, and I think that, alongside her hard work and dedication to continuous learning, that attitude allowed her to achieve such a big thing while also taking care of everyone at home,” Morris said, “She deserves all the praise in the world. She taught me to work hard throughout challenging times, because it always ends up being an even better learning experience, and I will always be grateful for that.”

Alumni Leadership Scholarship

The SNHU Alumni Board of Directors created this scholarship in 2017 to recognize outstanding students who have displayed proven leadership skills, meaningful involvement in student life, committed to academic success, and a demonstrated appreciation for the power of the SNHU network. Online and campus students are eligible.

Learn more and make your impact at alumni.snhu.edu/alumni-leadership.