Lina is currently a junior at the University of Rhode Island majoring in international studies,  global language and area studies, and gender and women’s studies. Lina was born in Busra Al-Harir, Daraa Syria but is now a resident of Cranston, RI. She devotes time to public service for and defense of displaced populations after experiencing the first-hand effects of the Syrian revolution. Lina is currently studying in Amman Jordan.

 

The Harry S. Truman Scholarship is the premier graduate fellowship in the United States for public service leadership. These scholars are known for their outstanding leadership as undergraduates, commitment to their careers in government or nonprofits, and overall academic excellence. Recipients of this award are given $30,000 toward a graduate school of their choice, programming and mentorship opportunities, a hiring option with the federal government, and the ability to apply for matching funds with partnering graduate schools. Out of 705 applicants nominated by their Universities, Lina was one of the 62 winners. 

 

President of URI Marc Parlange and the director of the Office of National Fellowships & Academic Opportunities Kathleen Maher received the original email with the notification that Lina had been chosen for the Truman scholarship. Ms. Maher then gathered Lina’s closest professors and advisors to surprise her on Zoom for the President’s congratulations. Lina’s goals going forward are to help assure that resources are available to integrate migrants into their new communities and to assist asylum seekers more generally.