Vanderbilt University Students Embark on Global Fellowships

Eight exceptional students from Vanderbilt University are setting off on impactful global journeys through the renowned Michael B. Keegan Traveling Fellowship program. This prestigious initiative empowers these students to deeply immerse themselves in diverse cultures, explore innovative ideas, and engage in practical learning experiences that will shape their future as global citizens and leaders. By venturing into independent research and cross-cultural interactions, these fellows are poised to cultivate essential skills such as adaptability, resilience, and leadership that are crucial in making a meaningful impact in an interconnected world.

The cohort comprises four graduating seniors who will spend a year traversing the globe, conducting independent research on topics aligned with their creative passions. Additionally, four other students have been granted the Summer Keegan Fellowship, enabling them to undertake immersive international projects as part of Immersion Vanderbilt. Tiffiny Tung, the Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education, highlighted the fellowship’s pivotal role in nurturing globally conscious leaders. She emphasized how the Keegan Fellowship epitomizes Vanderbilt’s dedication to experiential learning and global leadership by encouraging fellows to engage with diverse cultural settings and collaborate with individuals from varied life experiences. This exposure equips the Keegan Fellows with the essential qualities to become thoughtful leaders capable of effecting positive change within their communities and beyond.

Among the 2025 Postgraduate Keegan Fellows are Nour Abida, Deniz Orbay, Ellie Pazol, and Caitlin Scannell. Nour Abida, hailing from Tunis, Tunisia, will delve into the intricate dynamics of domestic violence, culture, and political participation in her project titled “Behind Closed Doors.” Deniz Orbay, from Istanbul, Turkey, will explore the realm of independent filmmaking around the world, seeking to understand how cultural and political contexts influence the themes depicted in indie films. Ellie Pazol, a student from Northbrook, Illinois, will focus on elderly activism globally, aiming to spotlight the contributions of older adults in shaping social movements. Caitlin “Catie” Scannell, a double major in climate studies and medicine, health, and society from San Francisco, will investigate the intersection of climate change, women’s health, and narratives from a geographical and socio-historical perspective.

Moreover, the Summer Keegan Fellowship, introduced in 2024, offers rising juniors and seniors an enriching eight- to ten-week global immersion experience. This year’s summer fellows include students like Claire Arney, Madelyn Bonadio, Devin Crawford, and Andrea-Grace Mukuna, each embarking on unique projects spanning topics such as sustainability, fast fashion, intelligence practices, and Afro-music movements.

Administered by the Office of Undergraduate Education in the Office of the Provost, the Keegan Traveling Fellowship continues to provide students with opportunities for experiential learning and leadership development. The program, renamed in honor of Michael B. Keegan, BA’80, in 2004, has witnessed significant growth and impact over the years. Keegan himself expressed delight in the fellowship’s evolution, underscoring the exceptional caliber of this year’s applicants and the program’s meaningful contribution to fostering a generation of globally aware and engaged individuals.

In conclusion, the Vanderbilt University students participating in the Keegan Traveling Fellowship exemplify a commitment to personal growth, cultural understanding, and global impact. Their diverse projects and experiences underscore the importance of experiential learning in shaping future leaders who are equipped to navigate the complexities of our interconnected world.