Students reflect on how OT scholarships support academic program
Department, campus and national scholarships are supporting occupational therapy students in tuition support, as well as earning accolades for their research and fieldwork.
Lauryn Schiffrin, 1st year
First-year student Lauryn Schiffrin received the prestigious AOTF Fred Sammons Endowed Scholarship from the American Occupational Therapy Foundation. Her exceptional academic achievements, leadership skills, and commitment to service set her apart as a future leader in the profession. Beyond academics, Schiffrin has demonstrated remarkable leadership and dedication to community service. Her research background, leadership in fundraising and campus organizations, and commitment to occupational justice highlight her passion for advancing the field. Schiffrin also received a Patti Ann Maurer Scholarship.
Additionally, nearly 20 students across all three levels of the occupational therapy program received scholarships for this academic year. This year’s honorees reflected on what these awards mean to them and their educational journey.
Patti Ann Maurer Scholarship
The Patti Ann Maurer Scholarship is awarded through an endowment from the family of Dr. Patti Maurer, former chair and director of graduate studies in VCU’s Department of Occupational Therapy. The scholarship is awarded to an accepted student with high academic achievement, leadership potential and research experience.
Heather Fraser, 1st year, also a Commonwealth of Virginia Scholarship recipient
“I am from Chesapeake, and I received my bachelor’s degree in psychology with a minor in communication from Old Dominion University. I am interested in working in an outpatient setting; however, I am remaining open to exploring other practice settings and I am looking forward to learning more as I begin my fieldwork next semester. This scholarship will alleviate some of the financial stress associated with graduate school by allowing me to focus more on my studies and personal development. I am proud of how much I have grown since starting this program in May, and I look forward to continuing to challenge myself over the next few years so that I can become an exceptional occupational therapist. I am grateful to my professors and classmates for their support and encouragement, and I feel honored to have been selected for this award.”
Kathryn Lawrence Dragas Scholarship
Kayla Ragsdale, 3rd year
“This award will significantly lessen my financial stress, allowing me to focus on my studies and career goals, particularly in becoming a pediatric occupational therapist. A key benefit of this scholarship is that it will enable me to start preparing for the board exams and cover the cost of the NBCOT exam after graduation. I am grateful for this invaluable support in pursuing my passion.”
MCV Foundation Scholarship
Prince Hopson, 1st year, also a Grudger-Garris Award recipient
“I am a first-generation college student from Central Virginia (Hopewell/Prince George area). I studied kinesiology and health sciences at James Madison University. I am deeply honored and grateful to be the recipient of this scholarship, which recognizes my academic achievements and passion for occupational therapy. As someone whose intersecting identities represent just 1% of the OTP population, I am excited to contribute and make innovative strides in the field of OT, carrying forward the legacy of Cynthia Gudger-Garris with pride. This scholarship will help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with higher education, enabling me to focus more on my studies and active engagement within the OT profession.”
Gudger-Garris Award
The Gudger-Garris Award was started as a bequest from Lucille Gudger, whose daughter, Cynthia Gudger-Garris, was a member of the Class of 1972. The award is given to students in good academic standing that present with the innovation and pride of the profession of Cynthia Gudger-Garris.
Ashley Cardona, 2nd year
“While attending graduate school comes with additional financial responsibilities, I am truly grateful to be a recipient of the Gudger-Garris Scholarship Award because it allows me to prioritize my education and focus on reaching my highest potential. I am currently in the OTD-Ph.D. in Health-Related Sciences Dual-Degree Program, a research assistant where I serve as a student representative for AJOT for the Authors and Issues series, a teaching assistant for Neuroscience Applications in Occupational Therapy, and the president for the OT honor society, PTE. As a student, I can attest to the high-quality education I am receiving which is preparing me to become a compassionate and evidence-based practitioner. I would not have been able to achieve these goals without such invaluable supports.”
Samantha Donaire, 1st year
“I am a first-generation Latine student from Manassas. Upon news of receiving the Gudger-Garris Scholarship, I was filled with gratitude over the honor. This scholarship represents innovation and pride in a profession I hold so dear. Entering a field like occupational therapy comes with accepting having to explain to the world constantly who you are and why you matter. In a way, I've done this my entire life, whether it's being the only one in the room with a differing perspective or feeling the need to speak up for those who can't. This scholarship not only represents an economic opportunity but also an extrinsic affirmation that voices like mine matter in a program and profession that is still growing. A growth and dedication to listening I hope to follow as a student and when I obtain status as a practitioner. Thank you."
Iliza Guinoo, 2nd year
“This scholarship will support me in completing my academic journey and pursuing my professional aspirations. Following graduation, I hope to work in adult rehabilitation, specializing in neurological conditions, or explore opportunities in travel therapy. Empowering individuals to gain independence and reconnect with activities that bring purpose and joy to their lives is one of the most fulfilling aspects of occupational therapy. My passion for the profession grows stronger every day, and I look forward to using the knowledge and skills gained in this program to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in my community.”
Sydney Hilovsky, 2nd year
“I’m from Roanoke and earned my bachelor’s degree from James Madison University in 2023. Pursuing a career in occupational therapy has been a deeply rewarding journey, and receiving this scholarship assistance will significantly support me in achieving my academic and professional goals. By alleviating some of the financial demands of graduate school, this support will allow me to dedicate more time and energy to developing my clinical knowledge and advancing my skills to better serve future clients. I am passionate about empowering individuals to reach their full potential, and this scholarship assistance brings me one step closer to achieving my dream of becoming a compassionate and skilled OT.”
Marina Li, 1st year (also a Commonwealth of Virginia Scholarship recipient)
“I grew up in Hong Kong and have been living in Virginia for the last 7 years. Prior to OT school, I worked as a media relations specialist at a public relations agency. I decided to switch careers as I was drawn to how rewarding and creative the OT profession is. I am grateful for the department’s support in my education. This scholarship will help me through the program - allow me to grow and become a well rounded OT who can help people live their best lives. I’m excited for what the next two years will bring.”
Chelsea Rodi, 2nd year
“I’m also a trainee in the Va-LEND (Virginia Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities) program. Through this experience, I’m developing leadership and advocacy skills in the field of neurodevelopmental disabilities. Receiving the Gudger-Garris Scholarship Award will enable me to further pursue my passion for helping children and families as a pediatric occupational therapist.”
Emily Taylor, 1st year
“I’m from Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Throughout my journey in the OTD program, I will be a dedicated full-time student, while also working in the Richmond community to cover my graduate school expenses as an out-of-state student. This award will give me the freedom to focus on my studies in OT, and pursue opportunities and experiences within the field that will enhance my abilities as a future occupational therapist. I am immensely grateful for the generosity of the Gudger-Garris family and their desire to help OT students, like myself, reach their fullest potential and blossom into successful occupational therapists. With the help of this award, I will be able to continue striving toward a career in pediatric occupational therapy.”
Commonwealth of Virginia Scholarships
Commonwealth of Virginia Scholarships are awarded to students with high academic and professional potential, who are from diverse backgrounds and Virginia residents.
Rachel Armstrong, 3rd year, OT Fieldwork Award
“As the class of 2025 class co-chair, I am committed to being a leader for my peers and providing them with resources to succeed. In my free time, I enjoy volunteering in my local community. This scholarship will help support me in my educational endeavors and future career goals. As an Occupational Therapist, I plan to utilize my leadership skills and community involvement to reach populations that need more access to healthcare services. I aim to advocate for my clients and become an ally as they work toward their occupational goals.”
Elizabeth Bolstad, 1st year
“My primary interests are in neuroscience, adaptive technology and pediatrics. I was motivated to pursue occupational therapy by a strong belief that engagement in meaningful communities and activities is crucial to childhood development and overall well being. I have worked as an in-home caregiver for a girl with a rare disability for over five years, and working full time with her and her family throughout undergraduate school fueled my dedication to serving children with developmental disabilities who have restricted access to participation. This scholarship will help me advance as an aspiring clinician by allowing me to spend more time engaged in academics and volunteer work in the community.”
Anthony Circeo, 2nd year
“I’m looking forward to working alongside many rehabilitative professionals in the future. As an OT student, my future drives me to be the best student I can be and learn as much as I can in school. I’m honored to be in a place where I can continue to expand my knowledge so I can best be able to serve my future clients. I’m looking forward to one day working with adults with neuro related disorders and following them on their journey to becoming independent.”
Marisa Fujimoto, 3rd year
“With this scholarship, I am excited to advance my education to learn more about the unique contributions that occupational therapy can provide to the healthcare profession. This upcoming year will be my last semester of VCU’s OTD program before I graduate, study to take the NBCOT exam and start my search for jobs. I am so grateful for all the learning, service and leadership opportunities that the VCU OTD program has provided me, and I am excited to apply those skills in practice.”
Grace Morrill, 2nd year
“I am originally from Maryland, but have been living in Richmond since 2018 to attend VCU for my bachelor’s degree. Since starting college, there has always been a sense of anxiety surrounding my future and the burden of student loans. Receiving this scholarship is a privilege, and I am extremely grateful for the assistance and relief it provides. This reduces some financial stress and allows me to focus on my education and grow into the best occupational therapist I can be. Although student loans are daunting, I am extremely thankful for the support and opportunities I have received along the way.”
Annalise Porreca, 2nd year, OT Service Award
“I am passionate about giving back to my local community. Whether it is training wheelchair racers for the Richmond marathon or being a youth AAU basketball coach or running workouts for my local adaptive track team, I find ineffable joy in giving back to the communities that helped shape me to be who I am today. I pride myself on finding opportunities to help others, even on the starting line of a Paralympics race, for example, where I translated for one of my opponents. Whether planned or spontaneous, giving back to others is essential; the give and take is a constant reminder that the beauty of humanity is that we are all interconnected and mutually sustained by each other. This scholarship will support me in the pursuit of my dreams of obtaining my Ph.D., pioneering intersectional disability justice research and better understanding the mechanisms of chronic pain.”
Morgan Sbraccia, 2nd year, OT Leadership Award
“I actively contribute to SOTA as a member of the admissions and recruitment board and serve as the fundraising chair for Phi Theta Epsilon. Additionally, I serve as the VOTA student liaison, assisting with fostering the connections between students and the Virginia Occupational Therapy Association. After graduation, I aim to work in pediatrics or adult neurorehabilitation, while also advocating for the expansion of occupational therapy services within the foster care system.”
Hannah Snodgrass, 2nd year
“This scholarship will go towards my tuition balance which will further aid my ability to successfully complete the program and enter the field of Occupational therapy. Becoming an OT has been a goal of mine since the start of my undergraduate studies, and since the start of the program, I look forward to expanding my community involvement through the lens of OT. Once again, I want to extend my gratitude for this fanatical assistance as it will help me continue my personal and professional goals."
Alyssa Tsui, 2nd year
“In addition to being a full-time student, I am a research assistant at the Sensorimotor Performance and Rehabilitation Engineering (SPRE) Lab, a co-chair for the Coalition of Occupational Therapy Advocates for Diversity (COTAD) VCU Chapter, and a rollator repair technician with Richmond Aging and Engaging. These roles fuel my passion for research and my commitment to improving lives in my community. I am incredibly honored to be the recipient of the As a first-generation student and the first in my immediate family to pursue graduate education, this scholarship will help relieve some of the financial burden that comes with pursuing an advanced degree. This support will allow me to focus more on my studies, research involvement, and community service as I work toward becoming an impactful clinician.”
