Juniors Kaitlin A. Canty and Stephen D. Po-Chedley have been named finalists for the Harry S. Truman Scholarship, which honors students who embody the leadership traits of the 33rd president. The two are competing with 199 other U.S. students from 130 colleges.
Canty, of Cheshire, Conn., is active in community service and organizations that address inequities and issues of concern for women. A double major in political science and women's and gender studies, she is a leader of “Safe Space,” a support group for survivors of rape and sexual assault, and a member of the Sexual Assault and Harassment Committee and Bias Crimes Committee. She helped bring “The Vagina Monologues” to campus recently, serving as the show's producer. She plans to pursue a law degree.
Po-Chedley, of Buffalo, has focused on campus environmental issues. He helped create U Recycle and coordinated a campaign to challenge students to reduce consumption and waste. A member of Ozone House and Campus Action, he won a 2006 Udall Scholarship for his leadership in environmental issues.
The Truman Scholarship Foundation, which dates to 1978, provides financial support for graduate study, leadership training and fellowship opportunities. A panel of leaders in government, non-profit and other public service fields will interview the finalists; the winners will be announced March 27.
For more information, visit http://www.truman.gov.