3 Veteran Students Honored as Tillman Scholars – Syracuse University News

Three talented and passionate Syracuse University student veterans—Benetta Dousuah G’25, second-year law student Jude Akpunku and Zahra Johnson G’25—were recognized as 2024 Tillman Scholars by the Pat Tillman Foundation.

The award unites and empowers outstanding military service members, veterans and spouses as the next generation of public and private sector leaders committed to service beyond self. Dousuah, Akpunku and Johnson were selected from nearly 1,600 applicants.

Tillman Scholars are offered academic scholarships, leadership development opportunities and access to a national support network as they embark on career journeys in the fields of healthcare, public service, business, STEM, law, humanities and education.

The scholarship program honors Pat Tillman, a starting safety for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League, who in 2002 put his football career on hold to serve his country with the U.S. Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment in Afghanistan. Tillman’s family and friends established the Pat Tillman Foundation after Tillman’s death in April 2004.

Syracuse University was invited to become a Pat Tillman Foundation University Partner in 2017. To date, the University has seen 13 students honored as Tillman Scholars.

Dousuah, Akpunko and Johnson sat down with SU News to discuss why they wanted to become Tillman Scholars, reflect on the prestigious honor and share how they will use the scholarship to make a difference in their communities.

Benetta Dousuah G’25, US Army

Academic direction: Social Work (Falk College)

What attracted you to study at Syracuse University? “I chose Syracuse University because it is known for being a veteran-friendly school. During my transition from the military, I visited and was impressed by how supportive the student veterans are. The National Veterans Resource Center in the Daniel and Gayle D’Aniello Building showed me how much the school cares about their veteran community.

Where did your interest and passion for your field of study come from? “My aim is to challenge and transform the existing stigma surrounding mental health and wellbeing in the military. My goal is to become a social worker and serve as a Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) representative in a behavioral health clinic on a military installation, specifically regarding sexual assault and harassment. This position will allow me to address important issues related to mental health and advocate for policy changes within the SHARP program.

How does it feel to be recognized as a Tillman Scholar? “It is an honor to be surrounded by people dedicated to making a difference in our military. My passion is to change the way investigations are done in the SHARP program. I’m excited to bring this idea to other researchers and see what the future holds.”

What motivated you to apply to be a Tillman Scholar and why do you think you were selected? “Pat’s story is incredible. It demonstrates selfless service and leadership, two of the Army’s core values. As a Tillman scholar, I am honored to continue Pat Tillman’s legacy. I am inspired by these incredible individuals who are making a difference. I was selected as a Tillman Scholar because of my commitment to making a positive impact. Despite facing a traumatic experience, my goal is to reform the system that failed me, ensuring a safer military for future generations.”

How do you plan to use this scholarship and experience to make an impact in your community? “I intend to use the education and experiences from Syracuse University and the Tillman Scholar program to advocate for important policy changes, particularly to reform the investigative process within the SHARP program.”

Jude Akpunku, US Naval Academy

Academic direction: Online JD Program, JDinteractive (College of Law)

What attracted you to study at Syracuse University? “The University’s strong commitment to veterans and its renowned law program appealed to me, aligning perfectly with my aspirations in law and public service.”

Where did your interest and passion for your field of study come from? “My interest in the law developed from my experiences in the military and as a member of the defense legislature [with U.S. Rep. Marc Veasey]where I saw firsthand the impact of politics and law on the lives of service members and national security.”

How does it feel to be recognized as a Tillman Scholar? “It is a deep honor. It validates my commitment to service and leadership and inspires me to continue advocating for justice and equality.”

What motivated you to apply to be a Tillman Scholar, and why do you think you were selected? “I was motivated by the program’s focus on leadership and service, which resonate deeply with my personal values ​​and experiences. I believe I was elected because of my demonstrated commitment to these principles through my military and legislative roles.”

How do you plan to use this scholarship and experience to make an impact in your community? “I will further my legal education, focusing on public policy issues affecting veterans and underrepresented communities. I intend to use this opportunity to advocate for policies that provide greater support and resources to these groups.”

Zahra Johnson G’25, US Army

Academic direction: Biomedical Forensic Sciences (College of Arts and Sciences)

What attracted you to study at Syracuse University? “When I was stationed at Fort Drum, New York, I applied for an Army program called Green to Gold Active Duty, which allows active duty soldiers to continue their education. I was looking for a school that offered undergraduate degrees in forensic science, and since Syracuse offered an MS in various aspects of forensic science, such as medical death investigation and biomedical forensic science, this was my best choice!”

Where did your interest and passion for your field of study come from? “In the wake of a tragedy in my family [the death of my uncle]I was encouraged to study forensic science and focus specifically on death investigation. My mother never felt the closure she needed. I hope to help families find some closure by providing them with as much knowledge and information as possible through scientific methods and proper and timely investigations.”

How does it feel to be recognized as a Tillman Scholar? “Pat Tillman was the only one, someone who believed in influencing the world in a positive way. As a girl growing up in Afghanistan, I would have had little or no opportunity to seek an education and pursue my dreams and ambitions. The sacrifice of heroes like Pat allowed me to go to high school and have the freedom and opportunities that led me to where I am today. Honor is beyond words; I am extremely proud.”

What motivated you to apply to be a Tillman Scholar and why do you think you were selected? “The Tillman community shares the same values ​​that I believe in at my core, and it was a great opportunity to become part of a community that will help me on my journey to become a better leader.”

How do you plan to use this scholarship and experience to make an impact in your community? “This scholarship will not only help me grow intellectually, but also connect me with a supportive community that can help me improve my service. My goal is also to advocate for soldiers to pursue an education while serving, as education holds the key to a successful and healthy nation.”