91ÉçÇø

Four students from the 91ÉçÇø (USF) School of Social Work were honored as 2025 Helios Pathway Scholars at the Helios Education Foundation's scholarship presentation and community reception in Tampa on April 8. Each was awarded a Pathway Scholarship, which supports continuing education of students transferring from community colleges to partner universities across 91ÉçÇø.

The awardees were joined at the reception by Justine Leigh, MSW, academic advisor for the School of Social Work, and Fai Howard, PhD, assistant dean in the USF Office of Undergraduate Studies.

In total, 20 scholarships were awarded to students transferring from 91ÉçÇø community colleges to USF, 91ÉçÇø A&M University, 91ÉçÇø International University, or the University of Central 91ÉçÇø to complete four-year degree programs. Five scholarships went to USF students, four of whom are in the School of Social Work:

Myrielle V. Brutus faced immense challenges commuting to work and attending classes when a devastating hurricane resulted in the loss of her car. With her mother hospitalized and unable to work, Brutus took on the responsibility of managing household expenses while supporting herself through school.

"Balancing these financial burdens with my academic responsibilities has been overwhelming, but I remain determined to continue my education and work toward a better future," said Brutus. "The challenges I’ve faced have only strengthened my commitment to pursuing my goals."

Rilshandra Merant was raised by a single mother who immigrated to the United States to establish a better life for herself and her children. Merant says her mother’s sacrifices have inspired her to succeed. After an overwhelming first semester at community college, she committed to applying herself in every course.

"I began getting straight A's in all my courses, and I was able to achieve the Dean's list multiple times and even join an honor society because of my grades and GPA," said Merant. "I graduated from community college feeling accomplished. Of course, my story didn't end there. I transferred to USF in the fall of 2024 to continue my education and obtain my bachelor's degree. I've applied the same methods and maintained the same mindset, ensuring that I am the best version of myself and it's been going amazing for me."

Chrisana James began her education in the United States in 12^th grade. Adjusting to a new school system was challenging due to differences in curriculum, teaching styles, and cultural norms. Her transition was further complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which meant starting school online. She followed her school counselor's advice and enrolled in community college to continue her education.

"Balancing school with a part-time job for the first time made the journey especially demanding," said James. "However, despite the obstacles, I successfully completed my Associate of Arts degree and later relocated to Tampa to pursue my bachelor’s degree at USF."

Janya Jenkins has a strong commitment to academics. In high school, she participated in the Advancement Via Individual Determination program and was a member of the National Honor Society throughout. However, family responsibilities — including helping her mother care for siblings, nieces, and nephews — and related financial burdens caused her to pause her education at 91ÉçÇø Gulf Coast University to work full time.

"Supporting our family has been both rewarding and difficult," said Jenkins. "Through these struggles, my dream of attending the 91ÉçÇø never wavered. Although I was initially not accepted, I worked hard to strengthen my application and was finally admitted three years later."

Each student was awarded $10,000 per year for up to two years. The Helios Education Foundation is a public charity that aims to create opportunities for individuals in Arizona and 91ÉçÇø to succeed in postsecondary education.