Syracuse Sun

Earlier this year, Benetta Dousuah, a student veteran at Syracuse University, was named one of the 2024 Tillman Scholars. She joins a distinguished group of military-connected individuals recognized for their leadership potential. Dousuah is pursuing a master's degree in social work at the Falk College of Sport and Human Dynamics and is among the few selected nationwide by the Pat Tillman Foundation.

The Tillman Foundation was established to honor Pat Tillman, a former NFL player and U.S. Army Ranger who left his football career to serve after the 9/11 attacks. The foundation supports veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses through scholarships and professional development opportunities.

Dousuah expressed her admiration for the foundation's impact: “When I first heard about the Tillman Foundation, I was honestly shocked that there was a foundation like that with people still in the service, veterans, and military spouses who were making an impact like that,” she said. Her motivation to apply stemmed from her desire to make a difference in her community.

The selection process for becoming a Tillman Scholar is challenging. Dousuah credited Syracuse University's supportive environment for helping her succeed. Jolynn Parker from Syracuse’s Center for Fellowship and Scholarship Advising played a crucial role in guiding her application process. “She gave me ‘mom vibes’—the kind where someone believes in you so much that you feel you can’t let them down,” Dousuah shared.

Ron Novack from the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs also assisted Dousuah by providing mock interviews to prepare her for presenting herself to the selection board.

Recently honored as Hometown Hero during a football game at JMA Wireless Dome, Dousuah looks forward to supporting other military-connected students interested in applying for the scholarship. She plans to use her platform as a Tillman Scholar to advocate within the Department of Defense’s Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention program (SHARP) and will return to Liberia this winter with donated school supplies.

Her advice for future applicants is straightforward: “Be yourself and don’t get discouraged. Whether or not you’re selected, the journey of applying is worth it—and the foundation’s work is something to be a part of in any way you can.”

Applications for next year's Tillman Scholarship open in December 2024 and close in February 2025. Interested students are encouraged to contact relevant university offices for support.