October 24, 2011
Joining the growing roster of fellow students who have earned the
prestigious award, a 2011 St. John’s graduate has received a
Fulbright Scholarship to spend the next academic year teaching,
volunteering and conducting research in the Dominican Republic
before heading to medical school.
Woodley Pean ‘11C, who graduated in May with a
major in
biology and a minor in
Africana Studies, will help teach English to low-income
Dominicans. He also will volunteer in a local hospital, helping to
provide health care for children suffering from HIV. When he
completes the 10-month fellowship, Woodley plans to attend medical
school in New York City.
The 21-year-old Stoughton, MA, native says he was “in disbelief”
when he learned he had received the Fulbright
Scholarship. “I was ecstatic, as were my parents,” he said. “I
knew I had a chance, but of course I also realized how tough the
competition was. It’s a tremendous honor to be included with so
many outstanding students.”
Woodley is one of two St. John’s students who received the
prestigious award this year. The other is Athena Loch ‘11C, an
English major who will conduct research in Macau. In addition,
three St. John’s undergraduates were selected as alternates for
2011-12 Fulbright Scholarships. Last year,
three St. John’s graduate students received Fulbrights to
conduct research abroad.
“The growing number of St. John’s students to win Fulbrights —
and other top academic prizes — says a great deal about their
talents and our University itself,” said
Konrad Tuchscherer, Ph.D., Associate Professor of
History, Assistant Provost and Director of the Graduate
Admissions Assistance Program (G.A.A.P.). “St. John’s is
dedicated to creating an environment that prepares students for
opportunities to work and study globally.”
“Woodley is one of those students who make you feel great about
teaching,” said
Rev. Patrick Flanagan, C.M., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of
Theology and Religious Studies. Woodley’s professor in a
medical ethics class, Fr. Flanagan wrote a recommendation letter
when Woodley applied for the Fulbright.
According to Woodley, the support he received when applying for
the Fulbright exemplifies the exceptional opportunities St. John’s
provides its students. In addition to academics, Woodley served as
secretary of the University chapter of NAACP, events chair for
Habitat for Humanity and as a member of the Watson
Pre-Health Honor Society. He also has participated in Campus
Ministry and engaged in the University’s numerous service
opportunities.
“I’m truly grateful to have spent my undergraduate years at St.
John’s,” said Woodley. “I believe students find opportunities here
that simply aren’t available at many other universities."