Hampton University senior Kendyl Crawley-Crawford has been chosen as a 2012 Marshall Scholarship finalist.

“Although I am nervous, I am excited and happy that my hard work has paid off,” stated Crawley-Crawford, a marine and environmental science major and native of Hampton, Va. “I look forward to the opportunity to represent Hampton University and my Department of Marine and Environmental Sciences on a national level.”

The Marshall Scholarship is one of the most prestigious postgraduate scholarships available to Americans. The Marshall Scholarships finance American students to study at any institution in the United Kingdom. Up to 40 scholars are selected each year at the graduate level.

Crawley-Crawford has a 3.9 GPA and is involved in many research activities related to marine fisheries and environmental conservation. She has traveled as far away as Tuvalu to document fisheries catches, and her research has informed and updated various bodies of the United Nations. Crawley-Crawford has also worked to organize youth around environmental concerns and has published a children’s book about ecology. A well-rounded student, Crawley-Crawford is also an avid tap dancer, pianist, and composer.

“Hampton University is extremely proud of Kendyl and we are all rooting for her as she prepares for the Marshall interviews,” stated Dr. Freddye Davy, Endowed University Professor and Director of the Honors College at Hampton.

Marshall Scholarship winners are selected for their potential to excel as scholars and leaders. Scholars are future leaders that are expected to strengthen the relationship between the British and American people.

Twenty Marshall finalists are selected from eight regions in October and interview with their region's selection committee in November. Crawley-Crawford will interview with the committee on November 11.

In 1953, an Act of Parliament established the Marshall Scholarship program. Named in honor of U.S. Secretary of State George C. Marshall, the scholarships are an expression of Britain’s gratitude for economic assistance received through the Marshall Plan after World War II.

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