Emma Rose
Emma Rose of Hutchinson Island, Florida, has been named the recipient of the Doctor of Organizational Leadership Scholarship. She accepted her first leadership role at the age of 20 and has been in management roles since then.
“In my undergraduate degree, I completed a vast range of courses from business communication to corporate finance to expand my analytical thinking capabilities and writing techniques,” she said. “In December of 2024, I was awarded with my MBA with a focus in management from the University of West Alabama. This master’s program allowed me to explore the research side of business and academic degrees.”
In her academic journey, Rose is looking to build employee programs that focus on the organization as a community.
“A doctor of organizational leadership (DOL) degree is something I’ve had my heart set on for years,” she said. “This degree will equip me with the necessary skills to effectively lead a team. I hope to be a college professor after earning this doctoral degree, and I know it will open doors for positions in higher education.”
Gretchen Pendell
Gretchen Pendell of High Springs, Florida, has been awarded the Doctor of Education Scholarship. She is currently an instructor with her local police academy and is also an intelligence analyst within the technology sector.
“My primary objective at the police academy is to modernize training through strategic technological enhancements,” she said. “This includes developing scenario-based training, creating and delivering training on cybercrime and dark web research, optimizing online investigative techniques and leveraging learning management systems for student use.”
Pendell feels that earning her doctorate in education will equip her with instructional design methodologies, enabling the creation of practical online learning modules and example-driven learning opportunities.
“Ultimately, my goal is to equip law enforcement professionals with the digital literacy required to navigate the technological landscape of modern policing effectively,” she said. “This objective also aligns with my responsibilities within the technology industry, where I design and deliver onboarding programs and OSINT coursework.”
Taiwo Akerele
Taiwo Akerele of Fayetteville, Georgia, has been named the recipient of the Regional Learning Partner Scholarship. He currently works with Delta Airlines and also volunteers with the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program, where he provides transportation for cancer patients to medical appointments.
“Each ride is a chance to offer compassion, encouragement and support to those facing difficult battles,” he said. “It feels deeply rewarding to know that my small contribution can make their days a little easier and help them continue on their path toward healing.”
With this scholarship, Akerele plans to pursue a master’s degree in information technology.
“Choosing to study information technology was an intentional decision shaped by witnessing how technology is transforming the world’s economy and connecting people across continents,” he said. “I am inspired by the potential IT holds to create solutions for communities like mine and to contribute positively on a global scale. My journey has taught me not just to overcome adversity but to use those lessons as fuel for my ambitions.”
Eric Hunter
Eric Hunter of Madison, Alabama, has been named the recipient of the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) Scholarship. He has over 20 years of leadership experience, including service as a U.S. Army first sergeant. He currently holds roles in nonprofit governance, consulting and federal security.
“These roles have equipped me with the analytical mindset, ethical foundation and organizational knowledge necessary for doctoral success,” he said. “My experiences will directly inform my research focus, particularly in areas such as ethical leadership, governance, risk and organizational transformation.”
With this scholarship, Hunter plans to complete his DBA to compliment his Master of Public Administration he earned from CSU.
“I am committed to using this opportunity to promote ethical leadership and innovation in organizations that serve the public good. With CSU’s support, I am prepared to lead at the highest level.”
Lauren Thompson
Lauren Thompson of Foley, Alabama, has been awarded the Regional Learning Partner Scholarship. She has worked with the Baldwin County Commission for the last 10 years, where she has gained valuable perceptions into government operations, logistics and resource management.
“This experience has helped me develop skills in analyzing logistical challenges, coordinating resources and identifying effective solutions—competencies that I believe are important in supply chain management,” she said. “Throughout my career, I have come to appreciate the importance of operational efficiency, adaptability and strategic planning, which I look forward to applying as I transition into the private sector.”
With this scholarship, Thompson plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree in business administration with a concentration in supply chain management.
“Pursuing this degree would greatly support my career development and serve as an important step toward achieving financial independence and long-term stability,” she said. “Receiving this scholarship would provide valuable assistance in completing my education and helping me to achieve both my professional and personal aspirations.”
For more information about Columbia Southern University’s scholarships, visit ColumbiaSouthern.edu/Scholarships.
Disclaimer: These testimonials may not reflect the experience of all CSU students.
Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes.
CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.
