Mertztown's Valerie Jenkins Awarded Full-Tuition Scholarship to Attend Saint Joseph's University

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Valerie Jenkins

PHILADELPHIA, PA (10/17/2013)(readMedia)-- Saint Joseph's University and Anne Welsh McNulty are pleased to announce that Valerie Jenkins of Mertztown, Pa., has received the John P. McNulty Scholarship for Excellence in Science and Math. Jenkins, who graduated in May from Brandywine Heights High School in Topton, Pa., will receive a four-year, full-tuition, merit-based scholarship and will participate in an intensive mentoring and research program.

Jenkins is a chemical biology major and is considering a minor in health care ethics or women's and gender Studies. She will work with faculty mentor Edwin Li, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology, who will serve as her mentor and research supervisor.

"I'm looking forward to the supportive network of fellow McNulty Scholars and faculty members who are sincerely committed to each student's individual success at Saint Joseph's," says Jenkins. "I am very eager to be involved in research opportunities and internships through the McNulty Program. I am also excited to help lead other women in the fields of math and science and to set an example for future McNulty Scholars.

"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 McNulty scholarship program aligns with the University's efforts to enhance women's professional success. "The 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.

Despite the increasing number of women who are pursuing an education in mathematics or the sciences, they are still consistently underrepresented in top positions in those professions. "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."

The scholars will also hold internships in business and research settings, complete a senior capstone experience and attend activities to enhance networking, marketing and communications skills. "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.

John P. McNulty '74 headed the Investment Management Division at Goldman Sachs and served as a member of the Management Committee. He is remembered for his philanthropy, strong leadership and dedication to his alma mater. McNulty mentored many young associates throughout his lifetime and always challenged women to achieve their fullest potential.

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