Manasa Jaishankar is currently in her first year at the University of South Florida, pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences with a pre-med focus. She is a member of the Judy Genshaft Honors College, where she continues her strong academic performance while remaining deeply committed to her goal of becoming a physician. Through her involvement in the Pre-Medical Pursuits Club at USF, Manasa actively engages in initiatives that enhance her understanding of the medical field and provide opportunities to serve other students. After completing her undergraduate degree, she plans to attend medical school to further her aspirations in medicine. Outside of academics, she remains passionate about serving her community. Whether through healthcare initiatives or her love for performing arts, Manasa is committed to making a meaningful difference in healthcare for the underprivileged. She is motivated by these experiences and looks forward to contributing meaningfully to the field of medicine. 

Stephanie Galdamez is currently attending Florida State University, seeking a double major in Political Science and Accounting. Her goal is to become a Civil Rights attorney.  Stephanie aspires to continue helping others within her community, especially those who have had life experiences similar to her own. She says that she is very thankful to the Periano Family Foundation and more specifically Dr. Bennett for helping with her transition into college.  The financial aspect of college was something that was weighing heavily on her and her family. In college, Stephanie has joined organizations like the Hispanic Latinx Student Union and Women in Pre-Law, while also maintaining a 4.0 GPA.

Emily Meeker attends the University of South Florida and says it has been an incredible experience. She is very passionate about her major in exercise science and her goal of becoming a physical therapist. Emily has become involved on campus with the Judy Genshaft Honors College Student Council, where she was selected to be the Student Involvement Subcommittee Leader of the Professional Development Committee. She also recently joined Circle K International, a community service and volunteering club where she’s made many great connections. Emily was recently accepted into a study abroad program as a part of the Honors College, so she will be traveling to Germany this summer and taking an Honors Social and Behavioral Sciences course on German culture! She says that the Dr. Kristine Bennett Honorary Scholarship will help make this amazing opportunity possible and that she is so grateful for our continued support!