Syracuse Sun

Benetta Dousuah, Jude Akpunku, and Zahra Johnson have been named 2024 Tillman Scholars by the Pat Tillman Foundation. These Syracuse University student veterans were selected from nearly 1,600 applicants for their commitment to service beyond self.

The Tillman Scholar program provides academic scholarships, leadership development opportunities, and access to a national network for military service members, veterans, and spouses. The fellowship honors Pat Tillman, an NFL player who left his career to serve in the U.S. Army and was killed in Afghanistan in 2004.

Syracuse University became a Pat Tillman Foundation University Partner in 2017 and has since had 13 students honored as Tillman Scholars.

Dousuah is pursuing a degree in social work at Falk College. She chose Syracuse for its veteran-friendly environment and aims to challenge mental health stigmas within the military. "My goal is to become a social worker and serve as Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) representative," she said.

Akpunku is enrolled in the online J.D. program at the College of Law. He was drawn to Syracuse for its strong commitment to veterans and law program. "I will advance my legal education focusing on public policy issues that affect veterans," he stated.

Johnson is studying biomedical forensic science at the College of Arts and Sciences. Her interest stemmed from personal tragedy and a desire to provide closure through forensic science. "The honor is beyond words; I’m extremely proud," she remarked.

All three scholars expressed their motivation by Pat Tillman's legacy of selfless service and leadership, aiming to make significant impacts within their communities through their education and experiences as Tillman Scholars.