Christina Freeman of Hatboro Awarded Full-Tuition Scholarship to Saint Joseph's University

Related Media

Freeman

PHILADELPHIA, PA (10/24/2012)(readMedia)-- Saint Joseph's University and Anne Welsh McNulty have announced that Christina Freeman of Hatboro has received the John P. McNulty Scholarship for Excellence in Science and Math. The Upper Moreland High School graduate will receive a four-year, full-tuition, merit-based scholarship and will participate in an intensive mentoring and research program.

Freeman is majoring in biology, and will work with faculty mentor Karen Snetselaar, Ph.D., chair and professor of biology.

"I am honored to be chosen as a McNulty Scholar, and I look forward to studying biology at Saint Joseph's," says Freeman. "This is an unparalleled opportunity to learn and do science by closely following mentors in the field, and also to interact with students who share my interests. The leadership components of the program will provide invaluable opportunities for networking. It's also a strong platform to introduce women in science to the public."

"McNulty Scholars are young women who dare to be the best," says McNulty, a former managing director of Goldman Sachs, whose generous support of the program honors her late husband, alumnus John P. McNulty '74. "John exuded energy, creativity and ambition. Through this program, we hope to ignite the same extraordinary spirit in others."

The scholarship program is on the leading edge of the University's efforts to nurture the professional success of women. "The McNulty Scholars are immersed in a challenging learning environment designed to inspire them to seek and assume leadership roles at the top of their professions," says Christina King Smith, Ph.D., professor of biology and director of the scholarship program.

Even as more women pursue an education in mathematics and the sciences, they are still underrepresented in top positions in industry and academia. "Because hands-on experience is a critical component of success, the scholars engage in full-time, faculty-mentored research in mathematics, computer science, actuarial science or one of the natural sciences," says King Smith.

In addition to hands-on study, King Smith notes that the scholars will hold internships in research and business settings, complete a senior capstone experience and engage in professional development activities designed to bolster networking, marketing and communication skills.

"John was a firm believer in the power of women to achieve greatness in their chosen fields," says McNulty. "He inspired them to take risks, and challenged them to tackle problems creatively and enthusiastically."

Alumnus John P. McNulty '74 is remembered for his leadership at Goldman Sachs, where he headed the Investment Management Division and served as a member of the Management Committee. He is also known for his leadership in philanthropy, especially his dedication to Saint Joseph's University.

As an undergraduate accounting major, McNulty served as student body president and later became a respected member of the Saint Joseph's University Board of Trustees, managing the University endowment and leading the formation of the New York Council of SJU alumni, parents and friends. Throughout his life, he sought to mentor younger associates and to challenge women to achieve their fullest potential.