A Dream of 'True Education'

"Intelligence plus character — that is the goal of true education."
​-Martin Luther King, Jr.

Army spouse Aleita Brown was awarded a $3,000 Colonel Abraham M. Ehrlich/ThanksUSA scholarship to continue a Social Work major at Grand Valley State University in Michigan. 

Aleita is completing field education requirements through an internship at a residential substance abuse treatment home for women. She said, “It has been challenging and stressful at times, but after years of studying social work, I am very excited to finally be interning at such an amazing agency.” Next semester, she will travel to Ireland for a study-abroad.

To complement her studies, Aleita is a member of the Phi Alpha Chi Epsilon Social Work Honor Society and the Bachelor of Social Work Student Organization. She also enjoys volunteering with the Salvation Army senior program and the Kent County Head Start program.

Maintaining a perfect GPA, Aleita expects to graduate in December with Summa Cum Laude honors. After gaining practical experience, she plans to continue her education and earn a Master of Social Work degree specializing in cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy.

The ThanksUSA scholarship has reduced the financial burden and stress on Aleita and her family. She shared, "I rely primarily on financial aid and scholarships to help finance my education and it is thanks to generosity like yours that higher education is even obtainable."

​A great example of a student committed to intelligence and character, Aleita will use her strong work ethic to help others through the field of social work. She said, "With your kindness, I am one step closer to becoming the helper I want to be. Thank you again for your generosity and support!"

Support ThanksUSA Scholars >>