Anita Qualls named UGA’s first Churchill Scholar

Senior biology major Anita Qualls of Johns Creek became the first student in UGA’s history to receive a Churchill Scholarship, which funds American students as they pursue a one-year master’s program in science, mathematics and engineering at the University of Cambridge (UK):

The scholarship, which was first awarded in 1963, is given to 15 students each year after a rigorous application and interview process. This year’s recipients come from a mix of public and private institutions ranging from Stanford and Princeton to the University of Virginia and the U.S. Military Academy. Churchill Scholars attend Churchill College at Cambridge, and the award covers full tuition, a stipend, travel costs and the chance to apply for a $2,000 special research grant.

“The University of Georgia congratulates Anita on being selected for this prestigious scholarship,” said UGA President Jere W. Morehead. “We wish her continued success in her educational and career pursuits as a UGA alumna.”

Qualls is an Honors student majoring in biology with minors in Spanish and nutritional science and a certificate in personal and organizational leadership. She will graduate in May. After a year at Churchill College earning a master’s degree in medical science with a focus on obstetrics and gynecology, she will attend medical school and pursue a career in academic medicine. She intends to combine translational research, patient care and mentoring by working at a university hospital.

An amazing accomplishment by an inspiring Franklin College student. Becoming UGA's first 'anything' at this point in time accentuates the university's overall standards of excellence and especially Qualls' extraordinary talent, drive and passion. Congratulations to her, her family and friends, professors and mentors at every level going back to the very beginning. This level success and achievement began long ago.