Kirsten Abbott, a CUKC chiropractic student in her sixth trimester of the degree program, has received a Kansas Independent College Foundation (KICF) Future Leaders in Health Scholarship award.
Abbott, from Hastings, Neb., was one of 21 students from among the 20 institutions in the Kansas Independent College Association to receive an award for the foundation’s various merit-based scholarships, deemed the Green and Gold Scholarships. More than 116 students were nominated in 2022.
Each nominated student had to submit a detailed essay about their leadership training, their future career goals, why they chose an independent college for their higher education, their thoughts on leadership, and how their education is preparing them for success.
“It’s exciting to know Kirsten is being recognized for her accomplishments and goals,” CUKC President Carl S. Cleveland III, said. “This is especially meaningful to see her award was in the category of future healthcare leader, which is consistent with our institutional mission and vision.”
Abbott said being nominated by CUKC and then winning the award “was a huge shock and a huge honor.” Her career goals involve exploring sports chiropractic. Her interest in the chiropractic profession came from the care she received as a high school athlete.
The KICF presented $19,000 in competitive scholarships for 2021-22. The annual awards are focused on categories where KICF institutions are particularly strong.
Other award categories include Minority Student Scholarships, First Generation Student Scholarship, American Service Member Award, “Better Life” Degree Completion Award, Future Leaders in Education, and Future Leaders in Faith.
The winners were selected by a panel of volunteers who are allies and supporters of the work of KICF and non-profit colleges.
About the KICF
The Kansas Independent College Foundation is a 501(c)3 organization that develops and enhances the competitive standing of its 20-member independent, non-profit, regionally accredited, degree-granting colleges and universities and strives to ensure opportunity and choice in higher education for all students.
