NEWH - Winter 2024 - 38

SCHOLARSHIPS
NEWH Scholarships to be Awarded During
the BD Power Players: Women Leaders in
Hospitality Breakfast at BDNY
$7,500 NEWH BrandEd Scholarship in the name of Marriott International
D'wan Tucker
Monroe University
Hospitality Management
I am a first-generation college student from the Bahamas pursuing a degree in
hospitality management with a concentration in tourism and destination management.
Winning this scholarship is more than just an honor; it confirms that the hard work
and dedication I have put into my academic studies thus far has paid off. It not only
provides crucial financial support, allowing me to focus more on my studies and less on financial burdens, but also
gives me the motivation and drive to continue my studies in hospitality. This scholarship gives me the reassurance
that I am one step closer to achieving my goals.
In the future, I see myself having earned my bachelor's degree and beginning the process of revamping my father's restaurant-Big D's Conch Spot. I
envision expanding the business beyond just a restaurant, incorporating larger hospitality projects that connect tourism with the local culture of the
Bahamas. My goal is to become an influential figure in the hospitality industry, sharing my knowledge with local businesses. I want to ensure that not only
my business succeeds, but that other local businesses thrive as well.
$5,000 Diversity in Hospitality Scholarship, a partnership between
HDAC and NEWH, and underwritten by Emerald
Taylor Sheppard
Drexel University
Interior Architecture
I am a graduate student at Drexel University studying interior architecture, having recently graduated with a
bachelor's degree in interior design and continuing my education at Drexel through an accelerated program. I am very
passionate about the visual arts and design justice. This scholarship is an olive branch which allows me to further my
education, complete a higher-level thesis, and connect me with design professionals who share similar goals for the
future. As a Black designer, I'm passionate about fostering diversity and inclusion in our field. It's always exciting to
find opportunities to be vocal about inclusive design, and to connect with other like-minded students and mentors as
I go forward. This scholarship shows me that we are moving in the right direction, and we're doing it together.
I plan to work in the Philadelphia or Washington, DC area, with a design company that values community engagement, research, environmental
preservation, and a considerate design process. While I aspire to work as a design researcher later in my career, my love for art will always keep me
connected to interior design.
$5,000 NEWH Women Leaders Scholarship, sponsored by Boutique Design/
Emerald
Fiona Nakabuye
Florida International University
Hospitality Management
I'm currently pursuing a master's degree in hospitality management, with a strong interest in catering, innovation,
and creating memorable experiences. I thrive in creative environments where I can collaborate and bring fresh ideas
to life. With a commitment to excellence and a love for learning, I continuously seek out opportunities that challenge
me to grow both personally and professionally.
I envision a career where I can combine creativity, sustainability, and technology to design spaces that are not only
aesthetically pleasing but also functional and environmentally conscious. My ultimate goal is to leave a lasting
impact on the industry through meaningful, forward-thinking work. My dream job is to become a lead entrepreneur for a global hospitality firm where I
can influence the hospitality and execution of luxury hotels and resorts around the world. I want to work on projects that push the boundaries of what
hospitality spaces can offer, creating environments that surprise, delight, and inspire guests.
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NEWH - Winter 2024

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