The University of Maryland’s Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice is proud to recognize four of its students who have been awarded the Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship for the 2024–25 academic year. This highly competitive award supports undergraduate students with financial need who are pursuing study or internship opportunities abroad.
The CCJS recipients are:
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Zohneseh Fopenawoh ’25 (criminology and criminal justice; philosophy, politics and economics)
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Mellisa Tsai ’26 (criminology and criminal justice)
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Sarah St Villier ’26 (criminology and criminal justice; public policy)
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Radhakund Ramnarine ’25 (criminology and criminal justice; studio art)
These students will take part in international programs that support their academic and career goals, while expanding their understanding of justice and policy across cultural contexts.
The Gilman Scholarship, funded by the U.S. Department of State, provides up to $5,000 to support study abroad experiences. Students studying critical-need languages may receive an additional $3,000. Recipients are selected through a national application process.
This year, UMD ranked fourth in the nation for the number of Gilman recipients, with a record-high 60 students awarded for the 2024–25 academic year.
“UMD's national ranking reflects our commitment to inclusive global learning opportunities that serve the economic diversity of our student body, ensuring access regardless of financial need,” said Lauren Ruszczyk, director of Education Abroad.
“UMD is committed to making international experiences accessible to all students by prioritizing financial support opportunities like the Gilman Scholarship,” said William A. Cohen, associate provost and dean for undergraduate studies.
These awards are supported through close collaboration between the National Scholarships Office and Education Abroad, as well as the Gilman Guarantee, which provides a $500 scholarship to students who complete the Gilman application and study abroad.
The department congratulates Zohneseh, Mellisa, Sarah, and Radhakund on their achievements and looks forward to the perspectives they will bring back to the CCJS community.
