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Kenmore West's Kerry-Ann Lewis Earns UB Presidential Scholarship

One Ken-Ton student has a lot to be proud of and a lot to look forward to! Kerry-Ann Lewis, a Kenmore West senior, recently learned she is the recipient of a four-year UB Presidential Scholarship, the most selective and highly valued award in the SUNY system.

"I literally screamed because I thought there was no way they liked me enough to give me that haha," Kerry-Ann said. "I was so happy."

Earning a UB Presidential Scholarship is no easy task. Kerry-Ann was one of more than 500 students who initially applied for the scholarship, which includes writing two 500-word essays, and one of 150 students who were offered an in-person interview based on their application. A total of 75 in-state applicants were offered the scholarship, with typically only 35-50 accepting and committing to continue their education at the University at Buffalo.

Through the Presidential Scholarship, Kerry-Ann has been admitted to the University's Honors College Presidential Scholars Program, which is made up of the top percentage of students at the University. Students are required to maintain an overall UB GPA of at least 3.30 during their first year, and an overall UB GPA of at least a 3.50 for successive years.

The scholarship is valued at $15,000 annually for New York State residents and, when combined with other scholarships and grants, the amount can't exceed the cost of attendance. Kerry-Ann plans to study Corporate Law at UB and hopes to earn her law degree in six years.

"College is expensive, so this is really going to help," Kerry-Ann said. "I am looking forward to this new opportunity. It's exciting!"

Kerry-Ann is an active student at Kenmore West. She's captain of the girls' tennis team and on the rifle team; Chorus and Band; President of the FUBU; President/Secretary of Spanish Club and member of French Club; Secretary of the Environmental Club; Secretary of National Honor Society; Communications Director of the Student Council; and is a member of the Readers of West, Link Crew, the Young Women Empowerment Program, Trivia Club, Community Club, and Challenge to Interact Club.

She also spends time volunteering at the Kenmore Branch Library and Lincoln Memorial Methodist church, and the Pine Street Day Rehabilitation for people with Developmental Disabilities.