Making Mission Moments Possible: Alexandria’s Journey of Passion and Perseverance | Alexandria Sholders ’26

Thanks to the generosity of donors like you, Alexandria has been able to continue her education at Neumann University as a recipient of the Felisa Anne Brady Endowed Scholarship. Her educational journey would not have been possible without your support, and she is profoundly grateful for the opportunity to reach her fullest personal and professional potential. 

As a student pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in English with a Certification in Secondary Education and a Minor in American Sign Language, Alexandria has embraced every opportunity to deepen her understanding of literature and language. This semester, she embarked on a directed study under the mentorship of Dr. William Hamilton, her professor, advisor, and the head of the English Department. Together, they designed an intensive exploration of five Shakespearean plays: Two Gentlemen of Verona, The Merchant of Venice, The Winter’s Tale, Antony and Cleopatra, and Hamlet; allowing her to engage with these works in multiple formats. By reading, analyzing, and watching various adaptations, she has been able to grasp the depth of Shakespeare’s creative expression and explore how his plays resonate with both historical and contemporary issues. This study has not only enriched her academic journey but also strengthened her passion for teaching, as she hopes to inspire future high school students with the same love for literature that has shaped her life.

Neumann has given me a voice and a deep passion for learning, something I thought I had lost along the way. 

Beyond her coursework, Alexandria has dedicated herself to academic excellence and leadership. She was honored to be inducted into Delta Epsilon Sigma, the National Catholic Scholastic Honor Society, which recognizes students with a GPA of 3.7 or higher who rank in the top twenty percent of their class. Additionally, she serves as the President of Neumann’s chapter of Sigma Tau Delta, the International English Honor Society. These achievements are a testament to the unwavering commitment she has for her education, an education that is only possible because of your generosity.

Neumann University has become more than just her school; it is her home. While her initial decision to attend was influenced by her mother and aunt, both proud alumnae, her experiences here have solidified her deep connection to this institution. Neumann has given her a voice, a purpose, and a renewed passion for learning. Through challenges and triumphs, she has persevered, maintaining a 3.7 GPA and earning a place on the Dean’s List semester after semester. However, the past year has brought unforeseen hardships for her family, making it difficult for her to remain at the university she cherishes so dearly. Despite these obstacles, she refuses to let go of her dream. The support of this scholarship is not just financial assistance, it is a lifeline that enables her to stay at Neumann and continue pursuing her passion for education. 

Thank you for believing in me. Your generosity is not just funding my education; it is shaping my future as an educator, leader, and lifelong learner. I will carry forward the lessons I have learned here and use them to inspire the next generation of students. Your Kindness has made all the difference, and I am forever grateful.

From the bottom of her heart, Alexandria thanks you for believing in her. Your generosity is not just funding her education; it is shaping her future as an educator, leader, and lifelong learner. She will carry forward the lessons she has learned here and use them to inspire the next generation of students. Your kindness has made all the difference, and she is forever grateful.

There is still time to make an impact.
Gifts made by June 30, 2025, will be put to immediate use in 2025-2026 academic year.