The Kent State University Honors College is proud to announce that Phoenix Allen, Korren Cullom, and Sofia Sprain have been named recipients of the Honors College Heritage Scholarship for the 2025–2026 academic year. The award recognizes exceptional Honors College students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and dedication to their fields of study.
The scholarship was established by Honors College alumna Gayle Sherry, who graduated from Kent State University in 1966 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education. Following a long and successful career with FirstEnergy, Sherry has remained a dedicated supporter of the Honors College and its students.
She created the Heritage Scholarship in honor of her parents, Lansford and Goldie Sherry, as a tribute to their encouragement and belief in the power of education. Through this award, Sherry seeks to support Honors College students who demonstrate both academic excellence and exceptional leadership in their extracurricular pursuits.
Phoenix Allen: Engineering with Purpose
Junior Phoenix Allen, a Computer Engineering Technology major from Painesville, Ohio, says that his lifelong fascination with technology made his career path clear from an early age.
“Ever since my freshman year of high school, I’ve known exactly what I wanted to do,” he said. “I’ve always been really good at troubleshooting and fixing technology, and I knew that pursuing this passion would make me happy for the rest of my life.”
Phoenix, who attended Lake Catholic High School, is also completing his third internship with Rockwell Automation, where he plans to continue working full-time after graduating in spring 2027.
Receiving the Honors College Heritage Scholarship, he said, has been “one of the biggest blessings of my life.”
“When I found out, I was at my internship, and my heart just began racing out of excitement,” Phoenix said. “This scholarship has made my mental health steadier and more positive, knowing that my financial stress has been lifted. I don’t know if there are enough words to express how thankful I am.”
Beyond his studies, Phoenix is a Peer-to-Peer Captain for the Honors College and a Senior Student IT Support Analyst for the College of Arts and Sciences. He is also a member of Alpha Lambda Delta, enjoys working out at the Rec Center, spending time outdoors, and connecting with friends and family.
Korren Cullom: Exploring Politics and Philosophy
Korren Cullom, a junior Political Science major with a Philosophy minor from Norton, Ohio, says her academic interests grew from a deep curiosity about how politics and philosophy shape the world around us.
“I think being knowledgeable about political theories, systems, and policies helps to make sense of society,” Korren explained. “Politics and philosophy are the threads that connect our world, enabling us to advocate for our needs and contribute to meaningful change.”
The Honors College Heritage Scholarship has had a transformative impact on Korren’s Kent State experience, making it possible for her to study abroad in Florence last spring and soon participate in the Washington Program in National Issues in Washington, D.C.
“As a commuter student, this scholarship has given me more flexibility to focus on school rather than work,” she said. “Words cannot describe my gratitude for the donors whose generosity has opened these doors for me.”
Korren, a Norton High School graduate, plans to attend law school after earning her degree in May 2027. She is also passionate about physical fitness, traveling, and volunteering as a student usher at Playhouse Square. Previously, she served as Vice-Chair of the Allocations Committee for Kent State’s Undergraduate Student Government.
Sofia Sprain: Engineering a Sustainable Future
Sofia Sprain, a third-year Mechatronics Engineering major with a minor in Physics, grew up in West Akron and graduated from Norton High School. Her academic journey is driven by a passion for sustainability and hands-on problem-solving.
“I love working with my hands and want to contribute to sustainable energy research efforts,” Sofia said.
The Honors College Heritage Scholarship, she explained, has significantly eased the financial burden of pursuing an engineering degree.
“Knowing I can pay for my tuition has helped me focus my efforts on classes and extracurriculars,” she said. “Your donation is actively contributing to making my degree attainable and giving me the tools to succeed in life.”
After completing her bachelor’s degree in 2028, Sofia intends to pursue the combined B.S./M.S. program in Mechatronics Engineering, followed by graduate study in Nuclear Engineering and potentially a Ph.D.
Sofia is highly involved on campus, serving as President of the Society of Women Engineers, Chief of Staff for Undergraduate Student Government, and a member of the American Foundry Society. Outside of academics, she enjoys hiking and spending time in nature.
Made possible through Gayle Sherry's generosity and the continued support of donors like her, the Honors College Heritage Scholarship helps Kent State students achieve their academic and professional goals while carrying forward the legacy of excellence that defines the Honors College.