Catherine Bell, a Bermudian ASU Online student majoring in ocean futures through the ASU Bermuda Tuition Scholarship, interactis with a coral tile at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences. Courtesy photo
By Tiffany Wardman
Catherine Bell was lying in bed recovering from a serious accident when she realized that she wanted to rekindle her love for marine science.
So the 45-year-old Bermudian transferred online this fall to Arizona State University’s School of Ocean Futures, one of five schools within the Rob Walton College of Global Futures.
“Since then, working with corals has been an amazing experience; they inspire me with their resilience,” Bell said.
Bell is one of five recipients of the ASU Bermuda Tuition Scholarship this semester. Awarded on a competitive basis, the full-tuition scholarship is open to Bermudian students to study in person or online in any undergraduate program at one of ASU’s campuses.
Balancing her studies with hands-on coral research at the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences, Bell says the experience has been both demanding and rewarding.
“The amount of support is amazing, from ASU advisors and success coaches to the ASU BIOS team who provide space for exams and study,” Bell said.
In 2021, the Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences became a unit of ASU, integrating its research and education programs into the Julie Ann Wrigley Global Futures Laboratory and the School of Ocean Futures. The partnership, which also established the Bermuda Tuition Scholarship, reflects a shared commitment to advancing innovative research and education in Bermuda and beyond.
The scholarship not only provides financial assistance but opens doors to diverse academic opportunities, global experiences and professional development opportunities that will help shape the future of Bermudians.
“The scholarship provides either full four-year tuition coverage for in-person study or two-year coverage for transfer students like me. It’s an incredible opportunity,” Bell said.
“Our affiliation with ASU continues to bring meaningful impact — from financial stability and career pathways for scientific staff, to enhanced facilities and stronger research collaborations,” said Craig Carlson, director of ASU BIOS. “We’ve added support for Bermudian students. It reflects our commitment to building global partnerships and preparing the next generation of problem solvers who will face the challenges of a changing planet.
“We are thrilled to see the diverse ways this year’s recipients are shaping their futures.”
Precious Hayward, 22, is a first-generation university student and one of 11 siblings. The Bermuda Tuition Scholarship recipient is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in financial planning with a minor in technological entrepreneurship, while preparing for actuarial exams.
“Without funding, I would not be able to pursue an education. Receiving this scholarship has pushed me one step closer to my future as an actuary in Bermuda,” said Hayward, who was raised in the foster system and is a mentor to foster kids as an adult.
She encourages others to persevere: “Tough times do not last — tough people do. Keep your faith and keep pushing.”
Ben Redburn, 18, enrolled in the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering on the Polytechnic campus and is pursuing the aeronautical management technology program with the goal of becoming a pilot.
“It means a lot as this is a unique opportunity to pursue my dreams, and I feel very fortunate to have received this scholarship,” Redburn said.
His advice for future applicants is to “be yourself throughout the application, especially in the essay. Honesty and being genuine go a long way.”
Eva Botelli, 25, is studying art history online at the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts.
“I would encourage other Bermudians to enroll in the online courses with ASU as the flexibility is great and there is a really wide range of courses to choose from,” Botelli said.
Jatia Richardson, 33, a single mother, is studying in the School of Mathematical and Statistical Sciences with plans to transition into the actuarial science program.
“This scholarship is more than just financial support, it’s a pathway toward a better future for both of us (her and her child),” Richardson said. “It represents hope, resilience and the chance to rewrite our story through education.”
She urges other Bermudians to seize the opportunity.
“Go for it! You have nothing to lose and everything to gain,” she said. “Education can transform your life, and ASU is a place where that transformation is supported and celebrated.”
These scholarship funds are offered for the fall and spring semesters and are designed to expand opportunities for Bermudian students to pursue higher education at a university recognized for access, innovation, sustainability and global impact.
Learn more and apply for the spring semester.
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