April 4, 2023

PTK Scholar Receives Oberndorf Scholarship

“I am extremely honored to be named an Oberndorf Scholar. I wouldn’t be where I am now without those who have given me their support and encouragement.”
BY: Rhonda Dunaway
Photography: BRAD SMITH

Hinds Community College student Elizabeth Moss of Waynesboro has been named a Fall 2022 Oberndorf Lifeline to Completion Scholar by the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. She has received a $1,000 scholarship.

“I am extremely honored to be named an Oberndorf Scholar,” Moss said. “I wouldn’t be where I am now without those who have given me their support and encouragement, especially as a student in the field of computer science.”

Moss attends the Hinds CC Utica Campus where she is active in the STEM-UP Academy and has received other honors for academic achievement. Recently she was selected by the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities for accomplishments in academics, leadership and civic engagement.

Moss’ PTK advisor Beverly Trimble said Moss has overcome a great deal to become the scholar we see today.

“I am proud of the accomplishments that Elizabeth has made while here at Hinds Community College,” Trimble said. “In spite of her adversities, she has persevered and continues to thrive, and keeps a positive outlook on life.”

The Oberndorf scholarship is for Phi Theta Kappa members who are overcoming unexpected financial barriers which would prevent them from completing their degree. Moss is one of seven students selected internationally to receive the award.

The scholarship is named after its benefactors, Rosemary and Lou Oberndorf. Lou co-founded Medical Education Technologies Inc., a world leader in medical education. The company’s products are used in community colleges and in the world’s leading medical schools. Lou is also a member of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation Board of Trustees.

Up to 15 Lifeline to Completion Scholarships are awarded annually, with scholars selected in spring and fall semesters each year. Dr. Monica Marlowe, Executive Director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation said the Oberndorf scholarship is an important economic bump up for the students that need it.

“Without a doubt, the Oberndorf Scholarship has a tremendous impact on the lives of these hard-working, high-achieving students, making it possible for them to complete their associate degrees,” said Marlowe. “We are grateful to the Oberndorf family for their commitment to helping students achieve their educational goals. Congratulations to all of the scholarship recipients.”

Students may apply now to the next round of Oberndorf Lifeline to Completion Scholarships.