Chapman scholarships support career-oriented summer learning experiences for students
Tuesday, Jan. 28, 2025
MANHATTAN — Kansas State University students pursued professional development dreams around the U.S. and the world last summer thanks to the university's Mark Chapman Scholars Program. Students can apply now for the 2025 program.
The Chapman Scholars Program provides five awards of $5,000 each to outstanding first- and second-year students in K-State's College of Arts and Sciences to pursue summer opportunities that support their educational and career goals. The scholars use $3,000 to fund summer activities related to their career aspirations and the remaining funds for the following academic year.
From language and art studies in Mexico and Italy to geochemistry and tallgrass sustainability research in Wyoming and Kansas, the 2024 scholars gained valuable hands-on experience to prepare for their future careers.
"The initiative and creativity that our Chapman Scholars demonstrate in finding or creating incredible summer learning experiences is always so impressive," said Beth Powers, director of K-State Scholar Development and Undergraduate Research and coordinator of the Chapman Scholars Program. "I hope that their projects inspire other students to plan meaningful experiences and apply for summer 2025."
The 2025 Chapman Scholars Program application deadline is March 3, 2025. Learn how to apply on the Chapman Scholars Program website.
2024 award recipients included Helen Winters, senior in fisheries, wildlife, conservation and environmental biology, Bennington; Brayden Shumaker, junior in geology, Lawrence; Alexa Murray, senior in fine arts, Olathe; and Maya Anchondo, senior in advertising and public relations and Spanish, Kansas City, Missouri.
Winters furthered her research on big bluestem grass, which is broadly distributed across the U.S. and serves as significant cattle forage. She worked to characterize climate adaptation of the grass to better understand how climate change will impact it. Winters is a 2024 Goldwater Scholar, recognized for her potential to have a successful career in science. She is also a University Scholar, a member of the Wildlife Society and one of only five students selected to present at the spring 2024 Undergraduate Research Day at the Capitol.
Shumaker did geological fieldwork in Wyoming's Teton Range. He took samples and analyzed them in a laboratory on campus to understand the geochemistry of the formations. His adventure included miles of hiking, getting lost and bushwhacking, and learning from a volcanologist. His improved sample processing skills will be vital as he pursues a career in geochemical research, as will his greater appreciation for the pace and unpredictability of the research process. Shumaker is an Eagle Scout, an avid skier and a fly fisherman who is passionate about preserving Kansas prairies and streams.
Murray participated in the Kansas State University in Italy program, and she was particularly excited about the Photography and Storytelling course. She studied Italian food, people, history and culture through coursework, day trips and interaction with local people. She said she developed new socialization skills and an appreciation for the importance of pausing during the day to connect with others. Murray owns an Etsy shop where she sells her designs, and she works as a resident assistant with K-State Housing and Dining Services.
Anchondo had a monthlong immersive language learning experience in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. She took classes, volunteered in an animal shelter and visited Mayan cultural sites. Anchondo said that enhancing her Spanish language and intercultural skills helped her appreciate her heritage and think about the importance of making the most of what she has. Anchondo is in the Developing Scholars Program and has conducted research about psychology and advertising and public relations. She is also a member of the Hispanic American Leadership Organization and the Zeta Tau Alpha sorority.
The Chapman Scholars Program was created in 2008 by Mark Chapman, a native of Clay Center, who graduated from K-State in 1965 with a bachelor's degree in history and political science. Chapman lettered in football, track and softball, and he was a member of Army ROTC and the Acacia fraternity. He later earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Texas. He was a successful entrepreneur in the oil and gas industry as well as a painter, poet and supporter of the arts.
For more information about the Chapman Scholars Program, contact Beth Powers at bethpowers@k-state.edu.
