$5,000 Spokeo Artificial Intelligence Scholarship - Fall 2026

Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Michael began his academic journey in biological engineering and religious studies at Louisiana State University before discovering a deep passion for philosophy. His work bridges STEM and the humanities, guided by the Thomistic tradition of rational inquiry, which he believes holds powerful applications for modern disciplines. Currently pursuing a PhD in Philosophy at the University of Saint Thomas in Houston, Michael remains actively engaged with science through research and his work as a scientific diver and biologist. His dissertation explores the philosophical limitations and applications of Artificial Intelligence, a subject he plans to continue advancing beyond his doctoral studies.

Adrianna received her Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Cyber Security from DePaul University. After a close family friend was affected by human trafficking, she turned her passion for AI and social impact into founding Flock, a startup focused on improving campus safety. Adrianna plans to focus her life’s work on harnessing AI to help combat human trafficking.

Dominic is a junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln who plans to use the $5,000 scholarship funds to further his education by attending optician school after graduating, following in his father’s footsteps and joining the family optician business.

Karenina is a Junior at Elmhurst College and a member of the Women's Chorus. After graduating she plans to work as a special education teacher and researcher. She hopes to promote education for children with special needs in third world countries.

Dan is a Junior at Arizona State University and is working towards a Bachelor of Science in Psychology. He enjoys fiction writing, baking and music. Upon graduating, Dan hopes to work in healthcare and / or neuropsychological research.

Shashank is a Sophomore at the University of Michigan with a double major in English and Creative Writing, and a minor in Japanese. He enjoys reading, writing, bike rides and long nature walks. After graduation, Shashank plans on teaching English abroad and getting involved with organizations related to social justice and politics. His ultimate goal is to become a novelist.

Mark is a scholar of the Pennsylvania State Schreyer Honors College at University Park with a major in Honors Computer Engineering. He enjoys playing intramural soccer, spending time with friends and has a strong interest in finance. After graduation, Mark’s goal is to work for a large banking organization building financial market tracking technologies.

Bradley is transferring to Marymount Manhattan College to study theatre and musical theatre after a rigorous audition process. Bradley has volunteered annually with Bike First - the program showcased in his winning entry - which helps kids with mental and physical disabilities learn to ride bikes. In his spare time he loves to sing and act.

Emma currently attends North Forsyth High School and is both the president of the academic team and the captain of the debate team. She is on the leadership team of Simple Charity - the subject of her winning entry. She plans to attend the Georgia Institute of Technology in the fall of 2015 with her a focus on International Relations.

Ashley attends University of of Central Florida with a major in psychology and a minor in cognitive sciences. Her involvement with Out of the Life, an organization committed to assisting individuals exit the sex traffic industry, demonstrates her passion for helping those in need. She plans on attending graduate school for a Ph.D in clinical psychology.