Reehil Scholarship awarded to Brittany DesRochers
Brittany DesRochers At an all-School assembly on Sept. 15, fourth-year Architecture student Brittany DesRochers was named the first recipient of the Paul Reehil Endowed Scholarship. The scholarship is designated for Architecture students based on academic standing, financial need and service to the School of Architecture. For DesRoschers, the scholarship award for fall and winter terms will allow her more time to focus on studies and school activities.
"I've worked hard to finance my schooling," says DesRoschers. "The scholarship makes it easier for me; I'm not working as much now to pay for my schooling. I can concentrate on my schoolwork and spend more time volunteering on school activities."
DesRoschers currently works in the UDM Admissions Office, but also volunteers for such activities as campus visit days and SOA's Career Days organized by the Architecture Alumni Council.
DesRoschers enjoys the variety of architecture. "I haven't really selected a special area to focus on," she explains. "I'm looking forward to co-op this summer to give me a better idea of what I may do in architecture."
Friends and family started the scholarship fund three years ago in memory of alumnus Paul Reehil '67, '71, who died suddenly in February 2003. As with other endowment funds, once endowment status was achieved and the funds invested, the income earned was set aside to assist a student and will do so in perpetuity. (For more information on making a gift to the School of Architecture, contact Development Director Enid Grauer at graueren@udmercy.edu.)
At the award presentation, Reehil's friend Algis Bublys '65, FAIA, spoke about Reehil, both professionally and personally, to reflect "a dimension of the real person'' behind the scholarship name. Reehil was an architect, attorney and real estate developer who had the "ability to get along with a variety of people," and "was always known for his solid sense of principles, and his desire to help and mentor others." Bublys recalled Reehil as "a good and trusting friend." See Bublys' full remarks.