UMKC Welcomes the 2024 Trustees’ Scholars

The University of Missouri-Kansas City welcomed the newest class of the Trustees' Scholars at a reception on August 16.

The UMKC Trustees' Scholars Program is a highly selective and prestigious scholarship for first-time students at UMKC. A collaboration between the university and the UMKC Trustees, the Trustees' Scholar Program not only covers the majority of each scholar's education but also provides access to the UMKC Trustees' knowledge, connections and mentorship.

UMKC Trustees Chair Doranne Hudson was unable to attend, so immediate past chair Debby Ballard welcomed the scholars and their families at the reception.

"The Trustees' Scholar Program is a signature program at UMKC and is one of my favorite parts of being in the Trustees community," Ballard said. "I think the program is always so inspiring. I gain so much from my mentees every year, and I keep saying it can't get any better, but every year it does."

UMKC Chancellor Mauli Agrawal congratulated the scholars.

"The Trustees won't tell you this, but they are the ultimate group of people in Kansas City," Agrawal said. "Most people don't get access to the type of people they have access to. The relationships you build here will go beyond UMKC, so congratulations for being here."

Suzanne Shank, chair of the Trustees' Scholars Committee, shared insights.

"You are the best of the best," Shank said. "We received over 120 applications this year, narrowed it to 25 to interview and selected the seven of you. Even if you have a Trustee mentor, there is nothing stopping you from reaching out to other Trustees for opportunities."

UMKC Provost Jennifer Lundgren welcomed the students.

"Being a Trustees' Scholar is a rare and competitive opportunity," Lundgren said. "Being a part of this exclusive cohort presents a lot of opportunities for your futures. At UMKC, we have very high standards for our students, and we do our best to make sure they are successful. So scholars, I encourage you to take advantage of your opportunity."

Each scholar shared their story and their greatest accomplishments.

Maryam El-Demerdash

El-Demerdash is from Overland Park and is studying biology as a pre-dental student, with a minor in Spanish. El-Demerdash's greatest accomplishment so far, juggling five varsity sports, community services and advanced courses in high school while graduating with a 4.0 GPA and receiving a Division I soccer offer to UMKC.

Aaria Gandhi

Gandhi is from Carol Stream, Illinois, and is studying health sciences. Gandhi hopes to become a nurse practitioner or a nurse anesthetist. Gandhi said UMKC already feels like home to her. She is most proud of getting her diploma in Indian classical dancing after learning for 12 years.

Carter Hall

Hall is from Washington, Missouri, and is studying biology as a pre-dental student. He is excited to be at UMKC for his undergraduate degree and hopes to attend the UMKC School of Dentistry.

Haley Heidbreder

Heidbreder is from Blue Springs and is studying business and minoring in Spanish. She said her greatest accomplishment is earning her seal of biliteracy for Spanish.

Ann Joseph

Joseph is from Chesterfield, Missouri, and is studying biology as a pre-dental student. Joseph said her biggest accomplishment was becoming a certified mental health first aider. She started the course as a fun thing with her friends, but it has become truly meaningful to her, and Joseph is excited to use and grow her skills.

Audrey Martens

Martens is from Nixa, Missouri, and is studying psychology. Her sister also attends UMKC as a dental student. Martens said her greatest accomplishment is working at Camp Barnabas this summer, giving joy and support to campers who have disabilities and chronic illnesses.

Tiko Tamiru

Tamiru is from Ethiopia and moved to Kansas City five years ago. He is trilingual and studying business administration. Tamiru is proud of how far he has grown and has brought his family's pride with him. Tamiru is excited to be here, not just as a current achievement, but also for his future success.