Home Life Life Business
13 January 2025
By Dylan Mann-Hazell
In a celebration of diversity, global advisory firm Stout has announced the winners of its 2025 LGBTQ+ Scholarship. This annual program recognises and supports exceptional students who are pursuing business-related careers and are dedicated to uplifting the LGBTQ+ community.
This year, five students have been honored with $2,500 scholarships to aid in their educational and professional journeys, highlighting their academic achievements and leadership within the LGBTQ+ community.
Kenna McGee is a double major in Economics and Environmental Policy at Luther College. Reflecting on her scholarship, she explained, “This scholarship enables me to continue studying and further my education. This will have a major impact on my career trajectory and my ability to reach the goals I’ve set for myself.”
Kenna sees this recognition as a step toward progress in LGBTQ+ representation and acceptance in various workplaces. She hopes her journey will inspire future generations of LGBTQ+ youth, particularly in communities where acceptance is still a work in progress.
Next, Bree from the University of Colorado Boulder is majoring in Business with a focus on finance. “This scholarship means a lot to my family and me,” Bree said. “I have a huge passion for culture and diversity, especially when it comes to representing underrepresented groups and people.” She is thrilled about the opportunities Stout provides to integrate her passions into a fulfilling future career.
Erin Prendergast, who is studying Economics at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, stated, “Business is an industry that is enriched when people of all identities are embraced and included.” She believes that this scholarship is a vital part of creating a more inclusive corporate environment.
“Being active in both the business and theater spheres at UMass has provided me with a unique perspective on how my identity influences both my artistic and professional life,” Erin shares. Her passion for encouraging others to embrace their true selves highlights her commitment to creativity and productivity in the workplace.
From the University of Chicago, Purpleline Zhang is majoring in Computer Science and Economics. Purpleline views her scholarship as a celebration of resilience, noting how it helps LGBTQ+ students confront and overcome the unique challenges they face.
“This scholarship represents my journey and resilience, affirming that my identity is an asset in the professional world,” she said. Purpleline sees the scholarship as an encouragement to confidently chase her aspirations in finance and education, advocating for a professional landscape that is inclusive and equitable for all.
Lastly, Daniel A. Zhao attends the University of Georgia, majoring in Finance with a minor in Policy. He articulates a broader vision for his scholarship’s impact: “I see this as more than just a personal opportunity; it’s a commitment to breaking down barriers — both seen and unseen — that keep many from reaching their full potential.”
Daniel aims to demonstrate that a diverse community can create the space, access, and opportunities needed for everyone to thrive. “As a pride leader, I want to show others that they belong in these spaces and have every right to dream bigger,” he explained, hoping to encourage an environment where diverse voices are not just heard, but truly valued.
Stout’s LGBTQ+ Scholarship program manifests the company’s commitment to inclusivity and representation. By supporting these students, Stout celebrates their achievements and emphasises the importance of inclusive practices in today’s corporate settings.
The stories of these scholarship recipients are a reminder of the impact that occurs when people from all backgrounds come together to champion acceptance and equality. Each of these students carries the hope of forging a more inclusive future – not just for themselves, but for others who will follow in their footsteps.
Stout is a proud partner of myGwork, the LGBTQ+ business community. Find out more about LGBTQ+-friendly job opportunities at Stout.
© 2025 Stream Publishing.
