Accounting student Shalese Price was awarded the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Adult Learners in Transition (ALT) Scholarship.
The $5,000 scholarship, which helps cover the cost of tuition, books, and other educational expenses, was developed to support students whose education was paused due to a variety of personal circumstances.
“I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity to receive additional financial support for my education. As a college student, balancing the costs of tuition and everyday living can be challenging, especially when I am responsible for covering those expenses myself,” said Price. “I would like to personally thank Daemen University and Dr. Lisa Rafalson for going the extra mile to connect me with local organizations like the AAUW. Thank you so much to the AAUW for awarding me this scholarship and believing in my potential. Your generosity and support truly mean a great deal to me.”
Dr. Lisa Rafalson, founding dean of the College of Health, Human Sciences, and Business, was instrumental in helping Price secure the scholarship. “Last fall, Shalese had asked to meet with me and said she was looking for ways to help her pay for her tuition,” said Rafalson. “I had just been on a call with someone who shared the list of scholarships available through AAUW. I gave Shalese the information, encouraged her to apply, and sent a letter of recommendation. I was thrilled when she told me she was awarded the scholarship!”
AAUW Buffalo Branch President Patricia Miceli noted that this is the first year the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Buffalo Branch has offered the ALT Scholarship. “The ‘Adult Learners in Transition’ scholarship is designed to address situations where education was disrupted due to moving, family circumstances, health problems, inadequate funds, need to work, etc., for women on a non-traditional path,” she said. “This includes self-supporting/independent students, those who need further education to advance in their career, and those who do not qualify for other AAUW scholarships. AAUW Buffalo Branch is excited to add this scholarship to its list of current scholarship offerings. Together we are making a difference.”