College of Education and Behavioral Sciences

BHSU NAMES THREE STUDENTS AS RECIPIENTS OF 2025 MAKE A DIFFERENCE SCHOLARSHIP

  • BHSU Communications
  • 30 May 2025

Black Hills State University’s Make a Difference Initiative (MADI) has named BHSU psychology majors Alyssa Diaz, Madara Mesembe, and Arianna Scherer as recipients of the 2025–26 Make a Difference Scholarship. Each student will receive a full in-state tuition scholarship. 

The scholarship is awarded annually to students who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, a commitment to making a positive impact, and a strong desire to create lasting change within the local community. As part of the scholarship requirements, recipients must complete a project that benefits the community.  

From Longmont, Colorado, Diaz plans to bring the “What Were You Wearing” display to campus to raise awareness about sexual assault. This nationally recognized exhibit challenges the myth that a victim’s clothing contributes to an assault. 

Mesembe, of Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria, will use her scholarship project funds to strengthen connections between students and the Lost and Found organization, which provides peer support and suicide prevention resources. 

Scherer, from Spearfish, plans to host monthly events that provide boxes of food for students in need. She is also working to establish a Swipe Out Hunger program at BHSU to further support food-insecure students. 

“These scholarship winners are not only stellar students but embody the values we want to see in our future generations,” said Cheryl Anagnopoulos, BHSU professor of psychology and chair of the MADI Board. “They have committed to engaging in projects that will support and benefit others in our community. By raising awareness of sexual assault, connecting those in need with support, and addressing hunger on our campus, these three women are working to make our BHSU campus an even better place for all students to study, work, and thrive.” 

For more information about the Make a Difference Initiative and its future scholarship programs, please contact Anagnopoulous at Cheryl.Anagnopoulos@BHSU.edu.