2023 Golberg Scholarship Winners Announced

Charles E. Schmidt College of Science students Kyahra Morrissey and Carlos Ojeda have been named the 2023 recipients of the Golberg Scholarship. The scholarship provides additional support for pre-health track students who plan to pursue careers in the medical and health professions. Both scholars are also members of the Schmidt College of Science’s prestigious Soar-in-4 program.

Morrissey, 20, is enrolled in the College’s undergraduate Biological Sciences program. From a young age, Morrissey planned for a future in the sciences.

“I decided to attend Florida Atlantic University due to the beautiful campus and its many resources to aid its students’ success,” said Morrissey. “I have always anticipated becoming a physician, and I took science courses in high school that gave me a solid foundation to immerse myself in the College of Science as a Biological Sciences major.”

Thanks to the mentorship of Evonne Rezler, Ph.D., Senior Associate Dean for Undergraduate Studies, Schmidt College of Science, Morrissey plans to begin a directed independent research project with the start of the upcoming school year.

“Dr. Rezler has encouraged me to always work hard and be involved on campus,” Morrissey shared. “I have served numerous times on the Faculty-Student Council with Dr. Rezler, Florida Atlantic University professors, and students. I am grateful to be a part of this council, as it has given me the opportunity to serve in a significant role.”

Morrissey is also an active member of numerous other student organizations, including the Blood Pressure Screening Association, the American Medical Student Association, the Women’s Empowerment Club, Black Women in Medicine, and the Caribbean Students’ Association.

She expressed her gratitude for the funding which she primarily uses to pay for tuition costs, textbooks, and lab gear. Upon graduation, Morrissey intends to obtain a one-year master's degree in biomedical sciences, and then apply to medical school programs.

Carlos Ojeda is pursuing a Bachelor’s in Biological Sciences, with a concentration in Medical Biology, from the Schmidt College of Science. His research focuses on the molecular genetics of aging under the mentorship of Kailiang Jia, Ph.D., FAU Professor of Biological Sciences.

“My interest is understanding the molecular mechanisms responsible for the aging process,” said Ojeda. “Once we can understand these fundamental mechanisms, formulating treatment regimens for age-related diseases will be revolutionized.”

Ojeda said he decided to pursue his undergraduate education at FAU due to its reputation as a research-focused university.

“Research is an integral part of the medical field, and I wanted to be prepared for my future by engaging in undergraduate research opportunities – which FAU has plenty of,” expressed Ojeda.

In his spare time, Ojeda serves as the Outreach Chairman for the FAU Medi-Futures program. The virtual shadowing program allows students to gain insights about multiple health care professions.

The Golberg funds allow Ojeda to help pay for his tuition, as well as living expenses. Following his anticipated graduation in Fall 2023, Ojeda plans to earn a degree in medicine and become a practicing physician.

The Golberg Scholarship was formed thanks to the generous contributions of Marla and Marvin Golberg, longtime Boca Raton residents who have been involved in government, education, and dental professional communities across South Florida. The Golberg Scholarship supports students who need assistance by providing them the financial opportunity to earn their degree and successfully achieve their goals.

Morrissey and Ojeda applied for the Golberg Scholarship with assistance from the  Schmidt College of Science’s Pre-Health Office. For more information on Schmidt College of Science scholarships, visit  science.fau.edu/scholarships.