With a new semester comes new scholarship opportunities at Waynesburg University, one of which being the Rae of Light Scholarship to honor Araella Renee Swift Bornmann, a former student who passed away during her time here at Waynesburg.

Bornmann, otherwise known as ‘Rae’, had cancer throughout high school, but went into remission shortly after. However, during her junior year at Waynesburg University, her cancer had come back. Rae passed away April 15, 2018. 

“Her family organized this scholarship to honor and commemorate her, as well as to bless a student here at Waynesburg who lives her life the way Rae did,” University Chaplain Josh Sumpter said. “We continue her legacy always.”

Rae participated heavily with Chapel, leading Bible studies, and spreading Jesus’ love across campus, with her passion for her love of Christ being evident, according to the nomination form on MyConnect. “The scholarship is to inspire other students on campus and just be able to highlight all the different ways that students are shining the light of Christ on campus,” David Floyd, who serves as director of development and alumni relations, said. Floyd had worked closely with the family to bring this scholarship to life. 

The scholarship is offered to sophomores or juniors who are involved in campus ministry. Furthermore, recipients must “reflect the light of Jesus and love others on campus and/or the community,” as stated on the nomination form. 

This is a peer-nominated scholarship, and the nominations will then meet with a three-person committee, who is chaired by Sumpter. “One of the important things to Araella’s mother was to let not only just the winner of the scholarship, but also all of the other students that were nominated by their peers, so that those students also see that encouragement that the way they are living their lives is being noticed by those on campus,” Floyd said.

Peers can nominate their choices using the form on MyConnect, which provides more information about the requirements. The chance to nominate ends on Feb. 6.