Cabrini University welcomed nearly 160 guests to its Philanthropy and Scholarship Luncheon on campus Sunday, Nov. 12. The program highlighted more than 70 named scholarships and endowed funds that continue to benefit Cabrini students.
“Here, the spirit of philanthropy and the power of education converge in a celebration of hope, community, and the boundless potential of the future,” said Executive Director of Alumni Relations Laura Chisholm (EdD’22).
Chisholm noted the importance of gathering as a community to celebrate how unwavering support from funders can transform students’ aspirations into realities: “Your commitment to education is a beacon of light, guiding the way for countless individuals to realize their potential.”
During the luncheon, staff, faculty, and students expressed their gratitude to donors whose vision and generosity have provided essential resources for the University’s scholarship recipients. In addition to Chisholm, several speakers offered remarks:
- Helen Drinan, Interim President
- Sister Bridget Zanin, MSC, Campus Ministry
- Michelle Filling-Brown, PhD, Dean, Academic Affairs
- Becky Bradbeer (’94), Rebecca H. Bradbeer Social Work Scholarship Funder
- Charlesetta Favor Kowou (’24), Patience Cavanagh McFadden Memorial Scholarship Recipient, Criminology major
- Rosaisela Ortiz (’26), IME Becas Scholarship Recipient, Criminology major
Kowou, a native of Monrovia, Liberia, affirmed the life-changing difference her scholarship has made for her. She moved to the United States at the age of 14 to live with her aunt, who was also present at the event. Kowou’s immersion in social justice efforts through the Wolfington Center and Center on Immigration, along with the experience she gained as a student leader, solidified her passion to pursue a career in criminology.
“It is because of your support that I am able to stand in the presence of everyone today,” she said, “and be one step closer to making all the impossible dreams I had as a little girl growing up in Liberia come true.”
View event photos here. More images will be added in the coming days.