Mifflinburg's Sarah Cooney Awarded John P. McNulty Scholarship to Attend Saint Joseph's University

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Sarah Cooney

PHILADELPHIA, PA (10/21/2013)(readMedia)-- Saint Joseph's University and Anne Welsh McNulty are pleased to announce that Sarah Cooney of Mifflinburg, Pa., has been awarded an associate scholarship with the John P. McNulty Scholarship for Excellence in Science and Math. Cooney, who graduated from Mifflinburg Area Senior High School in Mifflinburg, Pa., in May will receive a four-year, partial-tuition, merit-based scholarship and will participate in an intensive mentoring and research program.

Cooney, a mathematics major, will work with faculty members Eileen Grogan, Ph.D., professor of biology, and Christina King Smith, Ph.D., professor of biology and director of the scholarship program, who will serve as her mentors and research supervisors.

"I am looking forward to meeting the former group of scholarship recipients who have experienced the mentorship program and gaining enough knowledge to lead a new group of scholars," says Cooney. "I plan on taking full advantage of the opportunities to network and learn about the various occupations within the field of science to help guide me towards a fulfilling career after graduation."

"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 females who pursue an education in mathematics or the sciences, women 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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