04/24/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/24/2025 08:07
John Shultz
VP for marketing and admissions
john.shultz@stmary.edu
913-758-6329
(Leavenworth, Kansas) - Two University of Saint Mary students are among a select group of undergraduates to receive scholarships from the Kansas Independent College Association.
Nursing major Litzy Delgado-Simental of Leavenworth, Kansas, is one of three students to receive the 2025 New Horizons Scholarship. Biology major Ayla Pierce of Lakewood, Colorado, is one of 18 students to receive the 2025 Maud Wyatt Recognition Scholarship.
The New Horizons Scholarship recognizes students from underrepresented backgrounds and first-generation students. Delgado-Simental will receive $2,000.
"For every student who applies for these scholarships, higher education isn't an abstract concept, it's a tangible and immediate investment in their future, their families, and their communities," KICA President Matt Lindsey said. "We recognize the tremendous dedication it takes to succeed in school today, especially in the face of ongoing and unprecedented challenges. These scholarships are a way to honor that hard work, to acknowledge the value of a college degree, and to affirm our belief that when we support students from all walks of life, we're also investing in the long-term strength and success of Kansas itself."
Pierce and other Maud Wyatt Recognition Scholarship recipients demonstrated excellence in academics, character, and integrity. The winners have also encouraged their peers to build bright, dynamic futures, all while maintaining GPAs of 3.5 or above. The award is worth $1,547.50.
"The students attending Kansas' independent colleges are poised to become the leaders, innovators, and changemakers our world needs," Lindsey said "Supporting them through scholarships is one of the most meaningful and impactful roles our association plays. These investments in students not only open doors to opportunity but also strengthen our communities and our future. We're proud to continue this work and are deeply grateful for the Maud Wyatt Educational Trust's partnership in helping to make it possible."
About the Kansas Independent College Association
Located in Topeka, the Kansas Independent College Association is a 501(c)3 that develops and enhances the competitive standing of its 21-member independent, non-profit, regionally accredited, degree-granting colleges and universities and strives to assure opportunity and choice in higher education for all students. For more information, please contact Jesyca Hope, VP for Member Programs and Outreach at 785-554-0247 or jesyca@kscolleges.org.
The University of Saint Mary is a Catholic co-educational applied liberal arts university founded and sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. The University of Saint Mary main campus is located at 4100 South 4th Street, Leavenworth, Kan. USM-Johnson County, at 11221 Roe Ave., offers evening accelerated graduate and undergraduate degree-completion programs. The university also offers online programs. Visit stmary.edu for more information.