April 5, 2014

Junior politics major Sarah Hendley has been selected as a finalist for the Truman Scholarship, a national academic award of up to $30,000 toward graduate studies.

Hendley, who is from Paducah, Ky., has been involved with SAGA, the student association general assembly, since her freshman year. In spring 2013, she was elected speaker, and is currently the delegate for the class of 2015. Additionally she is chairwoman for the academic affairs committee, undergraduate representative on the Academic Senate's failing grades committee, and the liaison to the Office of the Provost.She is also involved with Habitat for Humanity and College Republicans, and is enrolled in the University Honors Program. In summer 2013 she studied in London, where she interned for the British Parliament, and in fall 2013, attended the Leuven Institute for Ireland and worked for the European Union. In D.C., she has interned with both the House of Representatives and the Senate.

Jennifer Paxton, clinical assistant professor of history, and assistant director, University Honors Program, said, "We were very proud to send Sarah to the Truman Scholarship competition to represent CUA. In addition to her stellar academic record and devotion to serving others, Sarah has compiled what must be a unique record of legislative experience for one so young."

The Truman Scholarship is awarded to students who hold leadership roles, achieve academic success, and hold an interest in public service. This year the Truman Scholarship foundation received 655 applications and 204 were selected as finalists. The winners will be announced on April 16.

"CUA truly is a community devoted to excellence and service, and Sarah's success in this competition is a testimony to that fact," says Paxton. Julie Yarwood, fellowships coordinator, University Honors Program, noted, "Sarah has been a model of the type of young scholar we hope to cultivate at The Catholic University of America. Sarah embodies the mindset of one who wants to change the world and believes she has the power to do it. She is passionate about providing people, on both a macro and micro level, with the means to improve their own lives."