The Legacy of Heroines program has been providing scholarships to students interested in gender and politics, the political process, public service, and women’s leadership since 1996. Legacy of Heroines scholars receive a one-year scholarship split between the fall and spring semesters, and also participate in programs and activities through the Carrie Chapman Catt Center for Women and Politics. Most of the scholarships may be renewed based on program participation and continued eligibility.
The 2023-2024 Legacy of Heroines scholars are:
Asked about her favorite things about Iowa State, Carlson said, “I love going on walks throughout campus and finding new places to hammock.” Carlson is from Marion, Iowa.
After graduation, Cunningham plans to attend law school and then work as a human rights lawyer with an NGO or IGO abroad, saying, “I believe that by advancing the respect for and status of women’s and girls’ human rights, we will be able to achieve a greater advancement of human rights for everyone.” Cunningham is from Des Moines, Iowa.
“My favorite activity has been the Iowa State Blood Drive,” said Dahlberg. “It has been such a joy to serve as one of the public relations executives for the largest student-run blood drive in the nation over the past two years. I love watching our Iowa State community come together to donate and volunteer to save lives.” Dahlberg is from Mounds View, Minnesota.
“I am looking forward to all the speakers we get access to!” said Drey. “I love hearing advice and learning about people’s personal paths to success!” Drey is from Marion, Iowa.
Caitlin Henriksen, a senior majoring in animal science (pre-vet), is a recipient of the Claire B. Andreasen Legacy of Heroines Scholarship.
Abigail Iversen, a junior majoring in animal science, is a recipient of the Claire B. Andreasen Legacy of Heroines Scholarship. Iverson is a member of Block & Bridle and the Pre-Vet club and is a Supplemental Instruction leader.
“After graduation, I hope to attend veterinary school,” said Iverson. “I would like to become a mixed animal veterinarian in the Midwest.” Iversen is from Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
Jermier says, “I’m looking forward to creating positive change here at ISU as a student and representative. I want to be a positive voice in our community and an advocate for issues in our world and at our university.” Jermier is Grimes, Iowa.
During her time at Iowa State, Kawamitsu has been involved in the international student community through her role in International Student Council, Student Government, and the International Students and Scholars Office. She also serves on student advisory boards for the Senior Vice President of Student Affairs and the ISU Police Department, is a student ambassador and member of the Diversity Committee for the Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication, and is editor-in-chief of TREND magazine, a student-run publication from the Department of Apparel, Events, and Hospitality Management.
“The abundance of opportunities is definitely my favorite thing about Iowa State and the reason my college experience has been enriched so much!” Kawamitsu said. “However, if I had to choose one thing, the class for the George Washington Carver scholarship (UST 110: International First-Year Experience Seminar) I took as a freshman is still one of my most memorable and impactful moments in college. Being introduced to and learning about ‘intersectionality’ was pivotal in deepening my understanding of my own identities and was immensely valuable as I navigated college and my place at Iowa State.” Kawamitsu is from Council Bluffs, Iowa.
“One of my favorite things about Iowa State is all the different classes you can take,” Kent said. “I loved taking Plant Propagation [Horticulture 322].” Kent is from Urbandale, Iowa.
Of her time at Iowa State, Kitt said, “One of my favorite things has been being able to do research all five years I’ve been here and seeing how science is expanded through the collaboration of so many different people.” Kitt is from Jefferson, Iowa.
Jessica Kowalski, a junior majoring in global resource systems and animal ecology with a minor in Spanish, is the recipient of the Catt Center 30th Anniversary Legacy of Heroines Scholarship.
“One of my favorite parts of Iowa State is DubH Hip Hop club,” Litecky said. “Continuing to dance has been a highlight of my college experience, and I love getting to travel to different parts of Iowa with my team to perform at a variety of events.” Litecky is from Minneapolis, Minnesota.
When asked about her favorite things at Iowa State, Morrissey replied, “I absolutely love the courtyard by Lagomarcino Hall, as well as the Memorial Union’s Sun Room.” Morrissey is from Saint Paul, Minnesota.
Yen Nguyen, a senior majoring in biology, is the recipient of the Jane Greimann Legacy of Heroines Scholarship. Nguyen is a Supplemental Instruction leader, an undergraduate teaching assistant for organic chemistry, and a peer tutor for the STEM Scholar Program. Nguyen is from Sioux City, Iowa.
Brianna Rivera, a sophomore majoring in interior design with a minor in general business, is the recipient of the James R. and Lauri K. Young Choral Music Legacy of Heroines Scholarship. Rivera is from Summit, Illinois.
“One of my favorite things about Iowa State is how many different ways you can get involved,” Rodriguez said. “Through my involvement, I have made so many wonderful connections! I’ve met celebrities, won pitch competitions, and identified my passions!” Rodriguez is from Davenport, Iowa.
“I love the campus, the buildings, plants, study spaces and art that is displayed in various areas,” Sanders said. “There are always activities and meetings taking place that provide information that is beneficial to the students. I have also enjoyed the lectures that are hosted on campus!” Sanders is from Brigham City, Utah.
“My favorite thing about Iowa State is the variety of opportunities available to students,” said Sow. “I was able to study abroad twice, in Grenoble, France for a semester and Montreal, Canada for a semester.” Sow is from Los Angeles, California.
Tigges said, “My favorite thing about Iowa State is all of the recreation facilities on campus and the many different ways to stay active, like the fitness classes or swimming at Beyer Hall.” Tigges is from Dubuque, Iowa.
Hope Ung, a senior majoring in biology and environmental science, is a recipient of the Helen Jensen Howe Legacy of Heroines Scholarship for Women in Science.
Estelle Venable, a senior majoring in agronomy and Spanish, is a recipient of the Elizabeth Hoffman and Brian R. Binger Legacy of Heroines Scholarship.
“My favorite things about Iowa State are the people I’ve met along the way and the support I’ve gotten,” Vilmont said. She is from Waukee, Iowa.
Wolfe has this to say of his involvement with the Legacy of Heroines program: “Many of my campus activities have been through attendance at Catt Center events, which I have found very insightful in understanding both diverse concerns and movements in society today.” Wolfe is from Nevada, Iowa.