Four Simpson College students have been named Principal Scholars for the 2020-21 academic year, earning them a $5,000 scholarship and mentorship from a Principal employee.
Scholarship recipients receive $5,000 from Principal and mentorship from a Principal employee, and are designated for students majoring in fields related to STEM or accounting. To be considered for the scholarship, students must meet certain criteria and complete a written application. Finalists are interviewed by a committee before recipients are chosen by Simpson faculty and staff.
The Principal Scholars program at Simpson has resulted in a total of $40,000 in scholarships for eight students since 2018. For a full list of students receiving the scholarship, click below.
2020-21 Simpson College Principal Scholars
Mary Hendon is a junior double-majoring in data science and environmental science. A STEM scholarship recipient, Hendon is active in the Sustainability Club and serves as vice president of the Math Club. She has also participated in numerous math modeling and data contests. Last summer, Hendon gained valuable experience through a biology internship with PowerPollen.
Alyssa Pingel is a junior majoring in computer information systems with minors in management information systems and interactive media. A STEM scholarship recipient, Pingel serves as vice president of the Rotaract Club and is vice president of finance and housing for the Pi Beta Phi Sorority. Last summer, she gained valuable experience through an information technology internship with Athene.
Hattie Rhodes is a junior double-majoring in accounting and business management. An accounting scholarship recipient, Rhodes is a member of the Simpson women’s basketball team, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Best Buddies. She applies her education as an undergraduate assistant in the college’s business office.
Mikayla Vander Heiden is a junior double-majoring in accounting and business management. An accounting scholarship recipient, Vander Heiden transferred to Simpson after graduating from Des Moines Area Community College. At Simpson, she is involved in the Accounting Club, Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society and serves as a Career Peer and student ambassador. She is currently gaining valuable experience through an accounting and finance internship with the National Pork Board.