This summer, scholarships from UVA’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies have afforded 75 students the ability to learn new skills, boost their resumes and pursue greater opportunities.
The scholarships hadn’t originally been in the school’s budgetary plan. But seeing the widespread, overwhelming impact of federal reductions and believing in the transformational power of education, school leadership prioritized reallocating funding to provide as much assistance as possible.
“We saw what a challenging time it has been for many federal and private industry workers, and we hoped that through these scholarships, we could welcome students who might not have otherwise been able to pursue their education.”
Melissa M. Lubin, Dean, UVA School of Continuing and Professional Studies
With summer courses beginning in mid-May, these students are eager to dive into their degree and certificate programs, boosting industry skills in areas like project management, cyber security and procurement and contract management as well as higher-order skills like writing, critical thinking and analytical reasoning.
UVA’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies awarded $170,000 in scholarships for the summer term for individuals who were impacted by federal restructuring or other financial hardships, and each recipient is grateful for the opportunity to enhance their future. As Michelle Kim, a Project Management certificate student shared, “When I was laid off from my full-time job late last year, I entered the spring semester with the anxiety of wondering how I'd be able to afford my summer classes. As…my job search stretched on, I came to the disappointing conclusion that I would most likely have to postpone my studies. This scholarship has not only eliminated that fear but has also given me a renewed sense of appreciation in being a student of such a university as gracious as UVA.”
Kim’s classmate, Christopher Robinson, echoed, “[The] aid will significantly improve the financial burdens that I am currently experiencing having lost my job. I know that this program will put my career back on track and put me back in the driver’s seat.” A new student this summer who has previously completed a master’s in business administration, Robinson expressed excitement over the amount of industry experience and connections professors in the program possess and believes he will gain a solid understanding of how to manage projects effectively.
Given the hardship they’ve recently faced, many students have faith that gaining UVA credentials will improve their employment search outlook, proving their skills, knowledge and commitment to excellence. Some are taking the time to change careers, like Reuben Shah, who aims to pivot into a career in cyber security. “Our family was directly affected by the shutdown of USAID,” Shah explained. “I initially thought of stopping my pursuit of a career shift via enrolling in a certificate program with SCPS, but my wife encouraged me to continue. In receiving this scholarship, I'm seeing it as an affirmation that I am doing the right thing.”
Studies show that blending experience with education, by way of certificates, certifications and degrees, helps workers advance more quickly in their careers. UVA’s online, accessible programs and the relatively short time commitment required to earn a certificate from a distinguished university are significant advantages for those looking to change or progress in their careers. Evelyn Rivera believes in a brighter future for herself. Rivera was able to begin the Procurement and Contracts Management certificate thanks to UVA’s scholarship assistance. “Losing employment earlier this year was difficult, and this scholarship is a new beginning,” she said, adding, “This opportunity reaffirms my belief that this program will open new doors and meaningful opportunities.”
The School credits its donors for making education more accessible through scholarships and sees the summer term awards as a fantastic starting point to the impact of philanthropy under the guidance of Jessica Robertson, who joined the school in August 2024 as director of development. “Scholarships are the number one reason we raise funds. We feel like we’re making a generational impact when we give to an adult learner,” explained Lubin, acknowledging that most students in the school are working full time and supporting families.
Michael Duffy, a Transportation Operations and Fleet Manager with UVA Facilities Management, first started his journey to an undergraduate degree in the UVA Edge program. Now, he can continue working toward earning a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies degree. Duffy echoed the appreciation of many others, stating, “This scholarship is more than a financial contribution; it is a testament to the belief in my potential and the shared dedication to helping students like me succeed.”
To partner with UVA’s School of Continuing and Professional Studies in making high quality education accessible, affordable and achievable, please reach out to director of development, Jessica Robertson at jhl5he@virginia.edu.