$8,000 in scholarships awarded by Augusta University Faculty Club

Four students from multiple health sciences colleges at Augusta University have each been awarded $2,000 scholarships from the Augusta University Faculty Club (AUFC) for the upcoming academic year. The scholarships will be distributed in two installments of $1,000 – one in the fall and another in spring. Scholarship recipients were selected based on academic promise, service to others and financial need.

This year’s recipients each expressed gratitude over receiving the AUFC’s scholarships.

Haley Sorrells, College of Allied Health Sciences

“As I enter my second year in the Occupational Therapy program here at AU, this scholarship will not only reduce the financial burden of school but also allow me the opportunity to fully immerse myself in coursework, fieldwork experiences and other developmental opportunities,” Sorrells said. “My goal after I graduate is to use my knowledge and skills, which I gained from this program, as an occupational therapist to positively impact the lives of families and individuals in need of OT services.” 

As an occupational therapist, Sorrells plans to advocate for underserved communities to repay the AUFC’s generosity.  

Jenna Harrington, Medical College of Georgia 

“I am beginning my fourth year of medical school, and my medical education thus far has been supported by student loans,” Harrington said. “Receiving this scholarship helps lessen the financial burden as I prepare to apply for pediatrics residency this fall and serves as more than just financial assistance; it represents recognition, encouragement and an investment in my future as a physician and educator.” 

Harrington said her long-term goal is to pursue a career in academic pediatrics. After residency, she hopes to complete a Pediatric Hospital Medicine fellowship, before working in an academic medical center, caring for children and mentoring medical students.  

Juan Villa-Londono, The Graduate School

“Returning to school to continue my education at a mature stage of life has been a rewarding and humbling experience,” Villa-Londono said. “After more than 30 years dedicated to clinical practice and to training medical professionals as faculty at a state university abroad, I have found myself learning new ways to understand, analyze and interpret theories and data.”

“This experience has also allowed me to develop a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by today’s students, broadening both my professional and personal perspectives. I am especially fortunate to share this journey with my youngest daughter, who is also enrolled at Augusta University as a pre-med student, now beginning her third year.”  

Villa-Londono said he wants to better understand and communicate to future generations of healthcare professionals about the importance of factors beyond biology that influence maternal and fetal health. He hopes to strengthen his ability to identify and reduce risks affecting maternal populations.  

Macie Maldin, College of Nursing

“Receiving this scholarship will make a meaningful difference in my education by easing the financial burden of semester expenses and financial hardship, allowing me to devote more time and energy to my studies,” Maldin said. “As a nursing student, balancing academic demands with financial responsibilities can be challenging, and this support will help reduce that stress so I can remain focused on achieving academic excellence and providing the best care possible to future patients.” 

After graduation, Maldin plans to gain experience through bedside nursing and shadowing opportunities. She hopes to become either a certified registered nurse anesthetist or a nurse practitioner. 

Mark Vranicar, MD, section chief for pediatric cardiology, served as scholarship chair of the AUFC and led the committee responsible for selecting the scholarship recipients.  

Since 1980, the Faculty Club has awarded approximately 200 scholarships. The AUFC accepts donations throughout the year. To contribute toward next year’s scholarships, donate online. For alternative payment options, email the Faculty Club.