2025 JMBFL Scholars

Elizabeth Blackmon

Elizabeth is a senior of Alton High School, part of both the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta (Math Honor Society). She has placed 2nd in the St. Louis Excellence in Math competition twice and has received multiple reading challenge awards. She was selected as a QuestBridge College Prep Scholar, a Junior Marshal for Alton High School Graduation, and an Illinois State Scholar and will be graduating as a Platinum-Alpha Scholar.

She is an excellent young scientist with plans to work in tech or engineering to develop innovative products to improve everyday life. She is pursuing a degree in Computer Science or Mechanical Engineering, fields often underrepresented by women. She hopes her dedication to her personal commitment to never back down against those discriminating against her gender will become an inspiration for younger girls.

Cameron B. Conwell

Cameron B. Conwell is a senior at Alton High School. She joined the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta (Math Honor Society), all while taking Dual-Credit courses at Lewis & Clark Community College and St. Louis University. She participates in Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) as the vice president, and is a student leader in her Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA). She’s achieved many awards, including the 2023-2024 Principles of Biomedical Science Student of the Year Award, and the College Board’s National African American Recognition Award. She is an NCNW Alton Youth Section Senior Leader. Her plan is to become a forensic pathologist.

Cameron also makes time for volunteering within her community, including nearly two dozen events during her time in high school. She has her heart set on creating a space of “love, advice, and self-assurance” for young women just like herself. Her goal is to find a way to encourage women to lift each other up within a supportive community.

Jada Bruce - Renewal

Jada Bruce is a freshman at Lewis and Clark Community College currently studying architectural technology. Her career goal is to be an architect, helping people see their dream homes come to life. She is an active volunteer with the Alton NCNW Youth Section. In addition, she has volunteered at the Alton Juneteenth event, A Precious Organization Sickle Cell Walk, James Killion Park Movie Nights, YWCA Girls Circle Program, and Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, helping to build power packs for elementary schools. She is a volunteer coach for Upward Sports, helping youth learn cheers and dances to support other Upward Athletes.

Samantha Kulish - Renewal

Samantha Kulish is a freshman at Illinois State University, majoring in Human Development and Family Science. Her current career goal is to become a Child Life Specialist. She is part of the Honors Program at ISU and has been on the Dean’s List for the first semester. Samantha volunteers her time with ISU organizations, including Child Life Club, that support children. She has worked at popcorn fundraisers, bake sales, city clean-ups, Christmas toy giveaways, and Trunk or Treat. All funds raised from these activities support children in Normal/Bloomington.

Isabella Hall - Renewal

Isabella Hall is currently completing her sophomore year at Lewis and Clark Community College, studying mathematics with a specialization in Actuarial Science. She will be completing an internship in Chicago with CNA Insurance. She hopes to eventually work on a sustainability policy that incentivizes risk management related to weather, climate, and environmental changes. With these policies, she hopes to help businesses in lower income communities get better access to policies and plans that focus on long term growth. She has volunteered with the Godfrey Women’s Association. She especially liked working with youth on homework and identifying the connection with homework and good grades and a better future and life.

Emma Smith - Renewal

Emma Smith is in her second year at SIUE pursuing a degree in nursing. Her aspirations extend beyond graduation as she plans to earn a master’s degree in Healthcare Administration. Actively involved on campus, Emma is a member of several organizations, including Chi Alpha for Christian Ministry, the Student Nurses Association, and the Alpha Sigma Tau Sorority and Fraternity. She also holds membership in the Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society, reflecting her academic excellence. Beyond her studies and campus commitments, Emma dedicates her time to community service initiatives, serving as a Sunday school teacher at Lifebrook Church, participating in Adopt a Highway clean-up efforts with Alpha Sigma Tau, contributing to Breast Cancer Awareness week fundraisers (Pink Week) with Alpha Sigma Tau, and supporting Dress for Success initiatives through her sorority.

Guadalupe Calixto - Renewal

Guadalupe is a 3rd-yeaqr student at Saint Louis University majoring in biochemistry. She is driven by a passion for drug discovery and development, with a focus on addressing diseases that disproportionately affect underserved populations. With the scholarship, she is able to participate in research initiatives, connect with mentors who share her passion for equity, and create a network of support for other women of color pursuing STEM careers. She continues to volunteer with Holy Rosary Parish in Fairmont City. She participated in STEM Outreach Initiatives, creating displays that promote DEI in STEM fields. She has received the SLU Vice President’s Scholarship, based on academic excellence and leadership potential. She was inducted into the Alpha Sigma Nu, the National Jesuit Honor Society, which embodies the values of scholarship, loyalty and service. She was awarded the St. Louis Hispanic Education, Cultural Scholarship and is an Audre Lorde Scholar.