Levine Receives $5,000 Civic Engagement Scholarship From Salem State

[broadstreet zone=”53230″]

SALEM – The Center for Civic Engagement at Salem State University has awarded one-time $5,000 scholarships to 13 students through the Frederick E. Berry Institute for Politics and Civic Engagement. Recipients include nine undergraduates and four graduate students who have made outstanding contributions to civic and political engagement.

The Frederick E. Berry Institute for Politics and Civic Engagement honors the legacy of Senator Frederick E. Berry, who throughout his life championed civic engagement, public service, and democratic participation. Massachusetts State Senator Joan Lovely secured funding in the state budget to help establish the Institute.

One of the recipients is Framingham resident Hannah Levine. A 2018 graduate of Framingham High, she is a junior at Salem State, majoring in social work.

[broadstreet zone=”54526″]

“Having had the honor of succeeding Majority Leader Fred Berry in the Senate, I took particular pride in securing funding establishing the Fredrick E. Berry Institute of Politics and Civic Engagement at Salem State University as a lasting and living tribute to his legacy,” said Senator Joan B. Lovely (D-Salem). “I know that Fred would be as thrilled as I am to know that these funds will help a baker’s dozen worth of Vikings continue to make the world around them a better and more inclusive place.”

Recipients are actively engaged in a wide range of community-based service both on campus and in their communities. One recipient founded a non-profit to distribute backpacks and school supplies to elementary school students. Another is a former military police officer who helps disabled veterans get needed equipment and other resources. Others are local leaders in national organizations such as Girls, Inc. and the Sunrise Movement.

“We received 35 very strong applications for this newly established scholarship,” said Kimberly Barboza, coordinator of the Frederick E. Berry Institute of Politics and Civic Engagement. “Our students are committed to making a difference at Salem State and in the communities where they live and work.  It is wonderful to be able to recognize their contributions in this way.”

***

The Frederick E Berry Institute of Politics and Civic Engagement, housed in the Salem State Center for Civic Engagement (CCE), seeks to inspire and engage a diverse community of learners to pursue careers in politics and the public sector. The Center is responsible for developing and supporting programs that connect SSU students, faculty, staff, and alumni to the greater community. Through reciprocal collaborations designed to address public issues and enhance academic learning, the center promotes the importance of community involvement and the privileges and responsibilities inherent in civic participation.

***

Release & photo submitted to SOURCE media