News
Congratulations to the 2024 Staff Association Scholarship Winners!
The Staff Association awarded $4,000 to three outstanding students.
The Staff Association Scholarship at Roberts Wesleyan University supports students who demonstrate strong campus involvement and a commitment to making a positive economic, social, and spiritual impact.
Each year, generous donations from staff members fund this scholarship, helping deserving students stay enrolled and thrive.
We are proud to introduce the recipients of the 2024 Staff Association Scholarship.
Yoscaira Gomez (Doctorate in School/ Clinical Psychology)
Award: $1,000
This dedicated scholar is currently pursuing her Doctorate in School and Clinical Psychology. As the founder of Urban Lotus, she leads workshops focusing on self-discovery and mental well-being for youth in underserved communities, with a special emphasis on providing cosmetology skills.
Additionally, she actively fosters diversity and belonging at Roberts through her involvement in SMAC as well as mentoring undergraduate psychology students. Her commitment to service is deeply rooted in her faith and spiritual values.
Yoscaira writes, “When I think of Roberts Wesleyan University's aims, objectives, and philosophies, the words whole-self, service, and spirituality come to mind. When you bring your whole self to others, you bring your authenticity and genuineness to all that you do. You use your gifts and talents to serve others while being centered on your spiritual beliefs and Christian values.”
Amelia Ponto ‘26 (Homeland Security and Applied Intelligence)
Award: $1,500
Amelia Ponto is a sophomore majoring in Homeland Security and Applied Intelligence. She is known for her dedication to service, exemplified through her involvement in the women's bowling team, Campus One80, and various volunteer activities. Off-campus, she volunteers with organizations like Homesteads for Hope and Pearce Church, demonstrating her commitment to community service.
Her participation in the Global Honors Program reflects her dedication to addressing social issues such as human trafficking. She fully embraces the university's philosophy of providing diverse educational experiences and fostering personal growth.
Amelia wrote, “Roberts provides students with many educational experiences..these learning experiences help better shape and allow students to find their inner self and true character. I have supported this institution's mission statement by immersing myself in the different opportunities and experiences the staff and my peers have guided me in my journey so far.”
Charissa Omans '25 (Social Work)
Award: $1,500
Charissa Omans, a sophomore majoring in Social Work, has demonstrated academic excellence and commitment to campus engagement. She holds many leadership positions, including President of the Class of 2026, Senator for Freshmen & Female Commuters, and Secretary/Treasurer of Horizons.
Charissa also serves as President of the Student Social Work Association (SSWA) and is actively involved with the campus ministry club Fellowship of Revolutionaries Empowering the Enslaved (FREE). Off-campus, she interns at the Center For Youth in Rochester, where she puts together care packages for street outreach and sorts donations for their clothing closet.
Charissa shares, “Students are learning in their areas of study, of course, but they are also learning where they fit in the world and how much they are truly capable of. The community at Roberts is one of the main reasons I came here.”