VILLANOVA, PA — Villanova University junior Lezlie Hilario has been named a 2024 Harry S. Truman Scholar. This prestigious national award, which marks Hilario as the first Villanovan recipient since 2015 and only the seventh since 1984, recognizes college juniors who demonstrate outstanding leadership potential and a commitment to making a positive impact through public service.
Hilario, a dedicated student in Political Science and Global Interdisciplinary Studies, was selected from a highly competitive pool of 709 nominees representing 285 colleges and universities across the United States. This year, only 60 scholars were chosen for their academic excellence, leadership skills, and dedication to serving their communities.
Catherine Stecyk, Director for the Center for Research and Fellowships at Villanova, praised Hilario’s exceptional contributions both within and beyond the university community. Stecyk’s commendation reflects confidence in Hilario’s ability to inspire and create meaningful change, underscoring the importance of nurturing talented individuals who are poised to tackle societal challenges.
Hilario’s commitment to social justice is evident in her academic pursuits and extensive involvement in extracurricular activities. Her leadership roles include significant contributions to Villanova’s Service and Justice Experiences in the Center for Peace and Justice Education, as well as internships with Congressman Raul Grijalva and the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute. Currently studying abroad in the Dominican Republic, Hilario continues to engage in initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity and understanding among diverse groups.
As co-president of the Latin American Student Association and a key figure in various other campus organizations, Hilario has demonstrated a remarkable capacity for leadership and advocacy. Her plans to use the Truman Scholarship for post-graduate studies at Princeton University underscore her ambition and dedication to public service. Hilario’s aspirations extend to running for the school board in her hometown of Perth Amboy, N.J., working with national non-profits, and eventually establishing her own organization to address the concerns of Black and Latino Americans.
The Truman Scholarship, named in honor of President Harry S. Truman, offers recipients up to $30,000 for graduate study, along with leadership training, career counseling, and internship opportunities within the federal government. Scholars are selected based on their academic achievements, leadership accomplishments, and potential to become public service leaders, as assessed by panels of distinguished civic leaders and past Truman Scholars.
Hilario’s achievement not only exemplifies the caliber of students at Villanova University but also serves as an inspiration to young individuals across the nation who aspire to make a difference through public service. Her journey reflects the critical role of education and mentorship in empowering the next generation of leaders to address pressing societal issues and contribute to the greater good.
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