Two Saint Martin’s University students have been awarded the highly competitive U.S. Department of State Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, the university announced Monday.
The Gilman Scholarship is a competitive, merit-based award that supports students of limited financial means in pursuing international study and internship opportunities.
During this award cycle, approximately 7,000 students applied nationwide, with only about 1,500 selected.
The two St. Martin’s University recipients are Ernestina Herrera-Agustin and William Curtis Jr., whose academic and professional goals reflect the transformative impact of international education, the university said.
Herrera-Agustin is a second-year nursing major who will spend the summer studying in Granada, Spain, where she will focus on medical Spanish and earn a medical translation certification. She works on campus in admissions and campus ministry.
“I want to express my sincere gratitude to the Gilman Scholarship for selecting me as a recipient,” said Herrera-Agustin. “Thanks to this support, I will be able to study in Spain and earn my medical translation certification. I am truly thankful for this opportunity.”
Curtis is a business administration student, a military veteran and the Associated Students of Saint Martin’s University senator representing non-traditional students. He participated in the Buenos Aires study abroad program during winter break.
“I am honored to be selected as a Gilman Scholar and look forward to representing the Gilman Program and Saint Martin’s University abroad. This opportunity will broaden my global perspective, strengthen my leadership abilities, and support my continued growth as a student and emerging professional, benefiting my family, my university community, and my future career,” Curtis said.
Roger Douglas, Ed.D., dean of International Programs and Development, said the awards highlight both student excellence and the University’s commitment to access and global engagement.
“This recognition speaks to the determination and talent of our students and to the power of international education to change lives,” Douglas said. “Having two Gilman Scholars in the same award cycle is a proud moment for Saint Martin’s University and underscores our mission to provide globally focused opportunities to students from all backgrounds.”
Emma Hatton, director of Study Abroad Programs, emphasized the collaborative effort that supported students through the application process.
“William and Ernestina are outstanding representatives of Saint Martin’s, and we are thrilled to see their hard work rewarded,” Hatton said. “Through intentional advising and scholarship workshops, we are helping students see that study abroad is not only possible, but attainable. We look forward to continuing this momentum and supporting even more Gilman applicants in future cycles.”
