Alyssa Cuddy, a Saint Michael's College sophomore, majoring in both anthropology and environmental studies, wants to learn about "diverse cultures and help others throughout the world." She plans to pursue that goal now with the support of the $2,500 Brian Lacey ’72 International Fellowship that she has been awarded. The grant will enable her to study with the International Honors Program in Health and Community orchestrated by School for International Training (SIT) Study Abroad.
Ms. Cuddy, the daughter of Coleen and Daniel Cuddy of Lawrence, Mass., graduated from Central Catholic High School before coming to Saint Michael’s. Her program will enable her to compare the global health conditions in four countries, Switzerland, India, China and South Africa. She will also participate in homestays as part of her research and comparative analysis.
The Brian Lacey International Fellowship in Social Justice is designed to encourage and honor Saint Michael’s students who have demonstrated superior academic achievement as well as dedication to deeper understanding of issues of social justice.
Ms. Cuddy hopes the experience will provide her the education and confidence to "become a voice for those who are silenced and receive a lack of healthcare." She plans to document her trip through extensive photographs which she will use "to tell the story of the lives she will encounter."
"The pictures can serve as the beginning of my journey in the United States to spread the wisdom and beauty of other cultures," she wrote in her application for the Lacey Fellowship. "I believe my camera will capture the truth and magnificence of Switzerland, India, China, and South Africa as the light flashes like fireflies fluttering with a jar."