Established in 2020 by Joseph ’99 and Shannon Fluder ’00, the Promoting Equality in the Sciences Scholarship aims to support and promote an individual with a commitment to diversity and inclusion at Illinois State University. Junior social work major Daniela Martinez received the scholarship for fall 2022.
Martinez encounters diversity daily on her personal, professional, and educational paths. After becoming involved with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Illinois during her freshman year, Martinez found a sense of responsibility in becoming a trusted individual. She values the emphasis on community involvement within Illinois State’s social work program. “Working with others from different populaces and backgrounds, sectors, and ages has really improved my ability to communicate effectively,” she said. “It has also shown me how important teamwork is.”
Support from donors like the Fluders helped Martinez enhance her academic and professional experiences. Thanks to her scholarship, she was able to add a sociology minor, and she continues to explore university resources for students of all backgrounds. Martinez currently serves as vice president of the Association of Latinx American Students. She hopes to eventually pursue a master’s degree in social work after her Illinois State graduation.
The Fluders take seriously their commitment to making the world a better place. “It can feel as though our hands are tied with many left wondering how to create or impact change around us. When we took our marriage vows, we vowed to give back to issues we held near and dear to our hearts,” said Shannon.
“Giving back by creating an endowment that seeks to empower, uplift, and support individuals and/or communities who have faced oppression was something we felt we could do right now, to promote equality, inclusion, and diversity. Our hearts fill with hope, gratitude, and joy every time we meet with students who are impacted by our endowment. There is no better feeling than supporting students who are paving the way for careers that seek to change the world for the better,” she added.
To qualify for the Promoting Equality in the Sciences Scholarship, students must be majoring in a science-related field, and prepare a personal statement of their experience with diversity and inclusion. The recipient is selected from a committee comprised of the dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, the assistant to the president for diversity and inclusion, and the director of the Multicultural Center.
