Gupta Values Scholars learn lessons on inaugural experiential learning trip to Washington, D.C.

April marked the inaugural experiential learning trip to Washington, D.C., for the first group of Gupta Values Scholars, which comprises the following nine Michigan State University undergraduate students:

• Kaila Baroff, College of Communications Arts and Sciences
• Sarah Anne Brandicourt, College of Social Science
• Morgan Dumaine, Eli Broad College of Business
• Kelton Engemann, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources
• Bethany Kogut, College of Education
• Zackir Metcalf, College of Engineering
• Lily Powell, James Madison College
• Tristyn Walton, College of Social Science
• Hakeem Weatherspoon, College of Communication Arts and Sciences

The scholarship was established through a $2.5 million endowment from Shashikant and Margaret Gupta with the intent of promoting lifelong commitment to the core values of integrity, human dignity and excellence among students attending MSU.

Students selected for this award receive a $5,000 scholarship renewable for up to four years, given they remain in good academic standing and demonstrate a continued commitment to the core values of the endowment.

In addition to the annual scholarship, students have the opportunity to expand their learning through experiential opportunities, meet with the donors and travel to Washington, D.C., to engage the donors and/or their representatives on issues focused on enhancing their understanding and commitment to the core values.

To qualify for consideration for this scholarship, students must:

• Demonstrate that integrity is reflected in all they do by providing evidence of their ability to make difficult decisions even when those decisions may not have been in their best interest, but were the right things to do.
• Manifest personal actions that demonstrate a commitment to human dignity – listening and considering the value of all individuals regardless of such things as race, religion, social status or gender identity.
• Evidence of a commitment to excellence in all they do. More than just grades and standardized test scores, this can be seen in such things as the ability to be creative and seek new solutions, motivational leadership and striving to advance the mission and goals of clubs and organizations, persevering in the face of difficulties or seeking to gain new knowledge.

Visit Giving to MSU for more information about the scholarship.