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Bloomsburg University ACE Program Student Places First in Frederick Douglass Essay Competition

by Abby Stoudt, Student Assistant

Bloomsburg, PA (05/03/2022) — The Frederick Douglass Institute for Academic Excellence at Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania recognized students for their work in its second annual Creative Expressions Competition. The theme was "Excellence Through Social Justice: Realities and Possibilities."

Gwendolyn Powell, a dually enrolled BU and North Pocono High School student in the university's ACE (Advanced College Experience) program, placed first in the essay category. Powell's essay, "COVID-19: Disparities in Obesity and the Future of America," was submitted under the subtheme: "Seeking Fair Distribution of Resources."

Powell is a sophomore at North Pocono High School and is taking college courses in the Zeigler College of Business.

The Frederick Douglass Institute for Academic Excellence is under the direction of Carolyn Reid-Brown, an assistant professor in the exceptionality programs. Its mission is to promote academic excellence among students and enhance their understanding and appreciation of human diversity.

The FDI-CE Competition is open to any student enrolled at the university. It is intended to amplify the voices and perspectives of students across all disciplines making connections between social justice and culture, economics, history, and science. It encourages thoughtful reflection and critical thinking through creative expression in various mediums to share experiences, highlight democratic ideals, and move audiences to action.

Bloomsburg University is one of 14 universities in Pennsylvania's State System of Higher Education. The university serves approximately 7,600 students, offering comprehensive programs of study in five distinct colleges: College of Education, Zeigler College of Business, College of Liberal Arts, College of Science and Technology, and the Honors College.

Media Attachments

Gwendolyn Powell and Dr. Carolyn Reid-Brown, Director, Frederick Douglass Institute for Academic Excellence


GP
Gwendolyn
Powell
  • Class of 2026
  • Madison Township, PA

Bloomsburg University of Pennsylvania

Tom McGuire, 570-389-5134, tmcguire@bloomu.edu

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