Institute for Families in Society
2024 Smith Scholarship Recipients
Traniah Neal
My name is Traniah Neal, and I am a dedicated student studying Psychology with a Minor in Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior at the University of South Carolina. I am honored to have received the prestigious Institute for Families in Society Michael Daniel Smith and Alexander Tyler Smith Scholarship, which recognizes my commitment to academic excellence and community service.
Throughout my academic journey, I have consistently strived for excellence both in and out of the classroom. My involvement in Changing Carolina Peer Leaders and The Black Honors Caucus has allowed me to develop strong leadership skills and a collaborative spirit, earning me recognition from my peers and faculty.
I plan to use this scholarship to further my studies in Psychology and Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior with the goal of pursuing a graduate degree in Public Health. I am deeply grateful for the support provided by the Institute for Families in Society Michael Daniel Smith and Alexander Tyler Smith Scholarship, and I am committed to using this opportunity to make a positive impact in my field and community.
Kayla Cipully
My name is Kayla Cipully, and I am so honored to receive this scholarship! I'm originally from Jackson, New Jersey and I will be a senior this Fall, and am actually graduating a year early. I am majoring in psychology and minoring in counseling. After I graduate, I plan to attend a graduate program that is CACREP-accredited in school counseling. My ultimate goal is to become a school counselor in an elementary school and specialize in play therapy.
I am also in a service sorority here at USC, called Epsilon Sigma Alpha, and I will be the St. Jude chair this upcoming year. Additionally, I am a member of Psi Chi, the International Psychology Honor Society, and I will be the secretary this upcoming year. In my free time, I enjoy reading, going to the beach, and spending time with my family, friends, and boyfriend.
Please join us in congratulating them on their award.
Be A Champion for Youth and Families!
The Michael Daniel Smith and Alexander Tyler Smith Scholarship is funded by an endowment created by Mr. Robert L. Thomas and awarded to the University of South Carolina in memory of Michael and Alexander, who died under tragic circumstances. Each year, the Institute for Families in Society is pleased to offer one scholarship ($1500-$2000, depending on available funds) to a full-time undergraduate student from the UofSC Columbia campus. The student will show outstanding promise in becoming a helping professional for children and families in need. To be eligible, students must be a junior in standing and a Psychology, Social Work, Nursing, or Public Health major. The scholarship funds will be awarded during the student’s senior year.