Heidi Kurn of Troy Awarded Full-Tuition Scholarship to Saint Joseph's University

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Heidi Kurn

PHILADELPHIA, PA (09/14/2012)(readMedia)-- Saint Joseph's University and Anne Welsh McNulty have announced that Heidi Kurn of Troy, Mich., has received the John P. McNulty Scholarship for Excellence in Science and Math. The Marian High School graduate will receive a four-year, full-tuition, merit-based scholarship and will participate in an intensive mentoring and research program.

Kurn plans to major in chemistry and will work with faculty mentor Jean Smolen, Ph.D., associate professor of chemistry.

"It means so much to be honored as a recipient of the McNulty Scholarship, and I look forward to studying chemistry at Saint Joseph's," says Kurn. "After graduation, I plan on going to medical school and becoming a surgeon, which has been my dream since I was a child."

"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. Throughout his life, he sought to mentor younger associates and to challenge women to achieve their fullest potential.

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