Ishonte’ Allar, CPASS Physical Education Teacher Education graduate student, was recently awarded the West Virginia University W.E.B. Du Bois Fellowship.
Allar will receive a monetary stipend from the university to further her higher education. Despite the fact that she could have gone anywhere, Allar decided to continue her studies at WVU CPASS because she feels she gained invaluable experience and education.
“CPASS helped in developing me into an informed, responsive, and productive citizen in Monongalia County. I have become an active member of the community. It is because of this great experience as an undergraduate that I have made the decision to return to CPASS to obtain a higher degree. CPASS will aid in my further intellectual and personal growth,” said Allar.
The fellowship program was inspired by the achievements of Dr. William Edward Burghardt Du Bois. Du Bois received his Ph.D. from Harvard University in 1896, and provides a standard of excellence for scholarship in any discipline and serves as an especially inspiring model for black scholars.
Allar was the only student in the College to receive the fellowship in the year 2013. She is thankful that WVU provided her with this award and opportunity.
“Continuing education is critical in me accomplishing my long-range goals. I want to be a role model for my little sister, my son, and the young women in my church family. I believe that young girls need more positive role models. This is of critical importance to young girls of color,” said Allar.
The fellowships are open to African American graduate and professional students, excluding those in the Health Sciences, who are native or naturalized U.S. citizens. The stipend amount for this fellowship is $18,000 for nine months, and requires some service obligation. Selection is competitive on the basis of academic merit and potential for success in graduate or professional study.