Mary Margaret Isbell can multi-task quite well: whether it’s being a mom, employee, or volunteer, the Mary Baldwin University Baldwin Online and Adult student does a little bit of everything, all the time. Recently her scholastic talents came to the forefront when she earned a national Alpha Sigma Lambda (ASL) scholarship for 2017—18.
An honor society that celebrates the scholarly talents and leadership of adult students, ASL awards national scholarships on a yearly basis to 12 qualifying students across the country. This year the scholarships totaled $36,000 and the student awardees each received $3,000.
Award recipients had to achieve a 3.2 GPA or higher in order to be considered for the scholarship, as well as show a financial need for their undergraduate degree, with at least 24 credit hours completed upon submitting their application.
Isbell has a GPA of 3.97, earning her psychology degree with a minor in peacemaking and conflict resolution while holding down a family and career.
Professor of Philosophy Roderic Owen described her internship in the philosophy department as “excellent, thorough, well-organized, and full of important insights and reflections.”
Her civic engagement activities in the Roanoke Valley span more than 17 years. Isbell’s community service includes: Junior League, PTA board positions at two area schools, the Governor’s School hospitality committee, and serving on the board of directors for the Interactive Achievement Foundation for Kids.
Marion Ward, academic advisor at MBU in Weyers Cave, had the pleasure of teaching Isbell in her multicultural psychology class this spring and speaks highly of the student’s work ethic.
“She’s thoughtful and hardworking,” Ward said. “She juggled a lot with family and traveling and did excellent work, and I was delighted to see her earn this scholarship.”
Sharon Barnes, director of MBU in Roanoke, served as Isbell’s advisor for the past three years and sees the student as a highlight in her career.
“She is one of the most impressive students with whom I have had the pleasure to work during my many years in higher education,” said Barnes.