SLIS students receive ALA scholarships
29 July 2025
MLIS students, Nikka Peredo (left) and Winnifred Quarshie (right)
The School of Library and Information Studies extends congratulations to MLIS students Nikka Peredo and Winnifred Quarshie for receiving the American Library Association's (ALA) for 2025-2026!
"I am honoured to be named a Spectrum Scholar and thrilled to join a community that is also passionate about cultural competency and social justice in librarianship! This opportunity to connect with others, develop leadership skills, and contribute to the LIS field in such a meaningful way confirms that I am on the right path, thanks to the wonderful community, individuals, and mentors who have helped me along the way. As someone new to the field, this opportunity would offer a chance to truly understand the current work that is being done to create all-inclusive spaces. My aspirations include sustaining more conversations around true inclusivity in public libraries that seek to not only accept children with disabilities but also actively strive to center spaces around their experiences," said Peredo.
“Being recognized as an ALA Spectrum Scholar is a huge honor and a significant milestone in my academic and professional journey. As a Black international student with a strong passion for community involvement, inclusive services, and the impact of libraries on promoting social justice, this acknowledgment strengthens my commitment to the field. The scholarship will not only ease financial burdens but will also provide opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and leadership that I highly value. I am thankful to SLIS, my mentors, and everyone who has supported me throughout this journey. Their encouragement continues to inspire my dedication to creating inclusive and transformative library environments for everyone. I look forward to contributing even more meaningfully to the LIS profession,” said Quarshie.
The seeks to advance racial equity by connecting new generations of racially and ethnically diverse librarians with a network committed to mutual support and advancing one another’s leadership. Spectrum Scholars are selected based on their commitment to community building, leadership potential, and planned contributions to making social justice part of their everyday work in LIS.