Kansas City’s university group awards seven for 2018
Carlos Silva, a spring 2018 Olathe Northwest High School graduate, has been named a University of Missouri-Kansas City Trustees’ Scholar.
When Silva begins biology studies at UMKC in the fall, he will receive a scholarship valued at $60,000 over four years. His award is supported by the UMKC Board of Trustees, the founder of the scholarship program.
Silva graduated in the top 11 percent of his class. He was a member of the soccer team, medical club, National Honor Society, and concert and jazz band. In the essay submitted to the Trustees’ Scholars selection committee, Silva said UMKC is a unique university that integrates many features he envisions for his future.
“I am the son of two immigrant parents who arrived in this country from diverse circumstances, but who have worked hard not only to provide for their family, but also to help other immigrants who are in desperate need,” Silva said. “I have always conceived my future career as one that makes me feel part of a global community, where I can use my bilingualism, bicultural upbringing, hardworking nature and passion for the medical profession.”
The Trustees’ Scholarship provides educational fees and on-campus room and board for the first two years. In the third and fourth years, the package provides educational fees and $2,000 for room and board. Each Trustees’ Scholar also receives $500 toward books each year.
To qualify as Trustees’ Scholars, students must meet at least two of the following three criteria: score a minimum ACT Composite of 30, rank in the top five percent of the graduating class, or have a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or more in a 17-class core curriculum. Trustees’ Scholars must enroll full time, be seeking an undergraduate degree and commit to living on campus for the first two years.
The UMKC Trustees’ Scholars Program is unique in that it aligns students closely with corporate sponsors, who give students access to their professional knowledge and experience, insight into the inner workings of the company or institution they represent, and a strong mentor relationship throughout the college experience. Students have opportunities to network and find internships or jobs through the Trustees and their connections in the community.
The UMKC Board of Trustees is a non-profit organization established by civic and community leaders to support the University. Members advocate on the University’s behalf, provide community feedback and forge partnerships to help the University achieve its strategic priorities and financial objectives.