Scholar of the Month 
Sydni Black

In the spirit of recognizing outstanding contributions to our Program, we are delighted to introduce our Scholar of the Month feature. Each month, we spotlight an exceptional individual whose dedication and impact leave an indelible mark on our community.

This November, we honor 
Sydni Black. Sydni is a Senior Sellinger Scholar who has excelled in the classroom. Her achievements are not limited to the classroom, as she has also excelled in the realm of sports, being named the Arthur Ashe Jr. Sports Scholar of the Year in Lacrosse for 2023. Her 
commitment to the community and the ethos of Loyola University Maryland is further underscored by her recognition as a Loyola Cura Personalis award recipient for the 2022-2023 academic year. Sydni's remarkable achievements in intercollegiate women's lacrosse, including her place on the Mid-Atlantic Regional First Team All-American and her presence on the Tewaaraton Award Watchlist, demonstrate her exceptional skills on the field. Furthermore, her leadership qualities are evident through her role as the Business Leader of the Year student speaker in 2023.

An Exciting October for Sellinger Scholars

Speaker Series Success: The Scholars Program had the privilege of hosting two distinguished speakers, Lucy Rutishauser, MBA, and Julia Gray, MBA. Both events saw an impressive turnout, with over 75 attendees for each. The program partnered with other business organizations on campus such as AKSPI, FMA, and WIB. 
Messina Top Golf Visit: Scholars hit the green at Top Golf during an exciting Sellinger Scholar Messina event, creating memorable connections and enjoying a day of fun. Thank you to our wonderful evergreens, Morgan and Maddie, for a fantastic trip!! 
First Year Retreat with TALLsmall Productions: Our first-year scholars experienced an unforgettable retreat led by TALLsmall Productions. This engaging event fostered personal growth, teamwork, and a deeper sense of community among the incoming scholars.
Student Board Success: The Student Board of the Scholars Program has been instrumental in organizing activities and advocating for scholar needs. We welcomed new first-year representatives, adding fresh perspectives to our student team. Some of our board members also helped recruit perspective Scholars at the Open House!!
Halloween Tabling: Our scholars celebrated the spirit of Halloween with tabling and a sweet treat. It was a fun and festive way to enjoy the season and connect with fellow scholars.
Hispanic Heritage Month Takeover Tuesdays: In honor of Hispanic Heritage Month, the Scholars Program hosted "Takeover Tuesdays," where scholars shared their daily routines, cultural experiences, and insights, celebrating the diversity within our community.
Midterms and Mentoring Milestones: As midterms approached, our scholars were diligent in their studies and received guidance from their mentors. 

Important November Resources and Information

To ensure you make the most of your Sellinger Scholars journey, here are some key resources and important information:

• Sellinger Scholars on the Bridge Stay up to date with program news, events, and resources on our official page on the Bridge.

• Upcoming Events: See upcoming events below. Our Mandatory Sellinger Scholars Closing Event will take place on November 10 in McGuire Hall from 3-5:30pm

• Off Campus Transportation Survey: Skyler and Matt are working with CCSJ to transport students to local community businesses. Please fill out this survey: Off-Campus Transportation

• Service Requirement Form: Track your service hours effectively by using the Sellinger Scholars Service Requirement Form. Access it here: Service Verification Form
  
  Due to the Leadership Summit and Scheduling conflicts, Scholar York Road Community Day will be postponed. We still encourage scholars to participate on November 4th and November 11th and we will work to have the organization do service together at a later date.
  
  Register for York Road Community Day
  
  All interested participants must:
  
  1. Join the CCSJ + YRI Service and Engagement Participants Group
  2. Complete the CCSJ Service and Engagement Registration Form
  3. Complete the Community Engagement Modules
  4. You can find links to the registration form and community engagement modules on the "Getting Ready for Service" track list on the Bridge.
   

• Mentoring Road Map: Explore the November milestones for First-Year and Sophomore Scholars, which provides valuable guidance for your academic and professional journey. First Years must also fill out their mentor evaluation form sent from Carter Dickey. See the picture above.

• Social Media: Please follow us on instagram (@loyolasellingerscholars) to stay up to date with program activities. Make sure to tune into our Takeover Tuesdays this month.

• Contact us: Below is our executive board. Reach out to any of us with any questions, ideas, or concerns!
  
  Matthew Rogers, President
  Viviana Martinez, Vice President
  Carmela Ciriello & Alexa Junikiewicz, Chief Operation Officers
  Tommy Kelly, Chief Financial Officer
  Abby Holthaus, Chief Marketing Officer
  Skyler Betournay & Jason Buller, Community Outreach & Service Coordinators
  Sophia Broseghini & Justin Motsay, Programming Coordinators
  Bridget Shanley, Peter Sposito, & Carter Dickey, Chief Mentoring Officers
  Abeisha Jeyavijithan & Jacolby Lacy, Chief Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, & Justice Officers
   

A Prayer and Reflection for Peace 

In these trying times of conflict between Israel and Palestine, let us reflect upon the pain and suffering endured by both sides, recognizing the universal yearning for peace. Let us pause to consider the human cost beyond political divides, to feel the universal yearning for peace that resides in every heart. As we reflect on the shared aspirations of both sides, may we find inspiration in the possibility of dialogue, understanding, and reconciliation.

Let us unite in the hope that diplomatic solutions and compassion may pave the way for reconciliation and a brighter future for all. Let us pray for lasting peace.

Divine Creator,

In the midst of turmoil and conflict, we come before you in search of peace. We lift our hearts and thoughts in a prayer for both the people of Israel and Palestine, who have borne the weight of ongoing strife and suffering.

Grant us the wisdom to see the shared humanity that unites us all, transcending the divisions that have torn communities apart. May we reflect on the sanctity of life and the yearning for peace that resides within every heart.

Guide those in positions of power to seek solutions that promote reconciliation and understanding, putting an end to the cycles of violence. Let diplomacy and dialogue be the paths toward a brighter future for all.

As we hold in our thoughts the countless lives affected by this conflict, may your divine presence bring comfort, healing, and the hope for a peaceful resolution. We pray for unity, compassion, and the strength to build a world where the aspirations of all can flourish side by side.

Amen. 

As we enter into this moment of reflection, may we carry the intention for peace, unity, and compassion in our hearts. May it serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility to work towards a world where the dreams and aspirations of all can be realized.

Best, 
Matthew Rogers