Mary Kennedy (left), daughter of John J. Hughes, congratulates Brittany Dwyer on receiving the John J. Hughes Scholarship.
Brittany Dwyer, a senior in the Department of Social Work, was recently selected to receive the John J. Hughes “Overcoming the Odds” Scholarship.
The scholarship was created in recognition of Hughes, who founded Mason’s social work program and was committed to undergraduate social work education and supporting students who face and overcome adversity.
Dwyer was selected based on her academic achievement and a personal statement describing her accomplishments as well as obstacles she has overcome. She works 10 to 20 hours per week during the school year and full time during the summer months to help finance her education.
“My family and I have faced many obstacles, including financial instability, personal losses, and health challenges. Despite these ordeals, my desire to help others has only grown stronger. The hurdles I’ve overcome have undoubtedly shaped my personality and contributed to my desire of becoming a social worker,” Dwyer said. “This scholarship will help me complete my senior year at George Mason and fulfill a desire to serve my community.”