ODU Undergraduate Awarded Phi Eta Sigma Scholarship

Rashelly Benitez

Rashelly Benitez, a junior environmental health major from Hampton, was recently awarded a $6,000 scholarship by the Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society.

"This is a significant honor, as only 36 undergraduate students from across the country receive this scholarship," said Joe Ritchie, director of First Year Student Success at ODU and adviser to the university's Phi Eta Sigma chapter.

Based on the number of members in Old Dominion's chapter, only one name can be submitted to be eligible for a scholarship. Students who apply must have a cumulative 3.5 GPA and are required to submit an essay that addresses their involvement in Phi Eta Sigma, participation in other service and leadership organizations and projects, creative ability and plans for continued academic studies.

This is the first Phi Eta Sigma scholarship awarded to an ODU student since 2009. In addition to Phi Eta Sigma, Benitez is involved with the Student National Environmental Health Association, Hispanos y Latinos Unidos and Peer Health Education, and serves as a tour guide for the ODU Office of Admissions.