Laura Ringstaff, a sophomore business management major at Southern Adventist University, was awarded the 2024 Weniger Student Scholarship. Each year, the Charles E. Weniger Society for Excellence awards a $1,500 scholarship to one student from each of the 13 universities in the Association of Adventist Colleges and Universities. Recipients are nominated for traits of excellence in academics, civic service, leadership, and spirituality. 

Last November, Ringstaff received an email from the Office of Ministry and Missions at Southern, saying that she had been nominated and selected to receive the scholarship. Ringstaff was surprised but very honored to be considered and chosen for the award. Along with other students, she offered words of acceptance and gratitude via video during the virtual awards ceremony, held in Loma Linda, California, on February 17.

A native of Harlan, Kentucky, Ringstaff has a goal of starting an equestrian fashion business while still in college, using the skills gained through her entrepreneurial coursework. Later in her career, Ringstaff would like to shift her focus to the fashion industry and create her own brand and clothing line.

“There are so many wonderful professors and faculty members who have deeply inspired me to work hard academically and in growing my faith,” Ringstaff says. “Being at Southern has allowed me to build connections with like-minded believers, and I am so grateful for the opportunities.”

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