Sierra Hines-Owens

Sierra Hines-Owens, originally of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, but now a resident of Newark, N.J., is a Social Science major with a 4.0 GPA. She’s balanced a full-time job, parenting, and activism while maintaining academic excellence.

At Ramapo, she been actively involved in a few organizations, including Tau Sigma National Honor Society, where she serves on the Executive Board, and Alpha Sigma Lambda, which honors the academic achievements of adult learners.

Off campus, Sierra is involved in many organizations that reflect her lifelong commitment to service, some of which include the Community Food Bank of New Jersey and the National Action Network (NAN), where she continues to engage in advocacy and community empowerment.

After graduation, Sierra plans to pursue a Master’s of Social Work and to attend law school. Her ultimate goal is to create a nonprofit organization that empowers underserved Black youth through mental health support, education, and structural change.

Anonymous

The recipient of this scholarship wishes to remain anonymous.

Anonymous

The recipient of this scholarship wishes to remain anonymous.

Julienne Shields

“I look forward to helping others grow and lead productive lives,” says Julienne Shields of Paramus, N.J.

Julienne is a graduate student in the MSW program with a 4.0 GPA. She appreciates that life can sometimes be challenging and plans to pursue a career in social work, specifically working with children and adolescents. 

At Ramapo, Julienne has been active in the Ramapo College Concert Band where she plays the clarinet.

She has been involved in off-campus activities and organizations, including The Bloomfield Civic Band. She is also actively involved in the Parent Teacher Organization at her son’s school.

Michele Bodden

“I believe I have the empathy and compassion to make a difference in someone else’s life and I would love to return the kindness and support that has been given to me during these difficult years,” says Michele Bodden of Clifton, N.J.

Michele is a returning adult student majoring in Social Work. She has a 3.74 GPA.

She has volunteered at her church, the local hospital, and before the pandemic, she volunteered at her daughters’ school. When she is not homeschooling her children, she enjoys spending time with them reading and playing. “My girls keep me going and it is because of them that I want to earn my Bachelor’s degree.”