Hope Barnes has been named a recipient of the U.S. Department of State’s Benjamin A. Gilman International Scholarship, which is administered by the Institute of International Education. Barnes is from Irondale, Mo., and is a senior at Lindenwood. She is pursuing degrees in cultural anthropology and music.

“Ever since participating in a mission trip to Kenya, I knew my passion was to work with and learn about cultures other than my own,” Barnes said. “My professors at Lindenwood from both the music department and anthropology department have been instrumental in helping me use my passion to work towards a career that I love. Because of their support, our wonderful study abroad program, and this Gilman Scholarship, I can continue pursuing this passion.”

The scholarship supports students with limited financial resources in pursuit of international internships and study abroad programming. “We are thrilled that Hope received a Gilman Scholarship to support her study in Ghana,” Elizabeth Snell of the Center for Experiential Learning shared. “We have full confidence she will proudly represent Lindenwood University. This transformative experience will positively impact her future study and career aspirations.”

Barnes will spend a semester in Ghana taking classes, participating in workshops, and field studies that focus on the nation’s diverse culture. She added, “I am both honored and excited to receive the scholarship. It will help me achieve my goals abroad next semester and in my future career aspirations.”