Samantha Peña '28: Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship Finalist

Samantha Peña '28, a double major in environmental studies and public policy, has been named a finalist for the prestigious and highly competitive Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service. Her public service focus is to provide access to fresh, whole foods and to green spaces in densely populated urban areas, particularly those with underserved populations.

The Obama-Chesky Voyager Scholarship for Public Service supports students who have a passion for helping others, experience serving their communities, and can demonstrate an expansive view of what’s possible through public service. Created by the Obamas and Brian Chesky, co-founder and CEO of Airbnb, the Voyager Scholarship provides 100 rising college juniors each year the following:

• Financial Aid: Up to $25,000 per year ("last dollar" funding) for junior and senior years to reduce debt;
• Self-Designed Summer Voyage Project: A $10,000 stipend and free Airbnb housing to design a summer work-travel experience between junior and senior years;
• Post-Graduation Travel: A $2,000 Airbnb travel credit every year for 10 years (totaling $20,000) to continue building global connections; &
• Networking: Access to a network of Voyager leaders, mentors, and peers, including an annual fall summit.

Peña will learn if she is an awardee in July. Her application was supported by the College's National Fellowships and Awards Office, directed by Professor of English Jennifer Cognard-Black.