Catherine Smith of KC North Awarded SHRM/Grantham Graduate Scholarship

Will use opportunity to pursue her Master of Science in Performance Improvement

Lenexa, Kan. — April 4, 2014 — Returning to school after a 24 year break is intimidating, but Catherine Smith, Kansas City North, was determined. After working in human resources for 11 years, she knew to advance her career she needed two things: a PHR or SPHR certificate, and a master’s degree. She already had the certification, so she just needed a way to pursue her graduate degree. Catherine, a member of the Society for Human Resource Management of Greater Kansas City (SHRM-KC), decided to apply for the SHRM/Grantham University Graduate Scholarship.

The scholarship, which was open to all members of SHRM-KC, covered the full cost of tuition, textbooks, software and fees associated with a human resources-related graduate degree at Grantham. Applicants had to submit an essay providing information on their volunteering efforts, career path and financial need.

“When I first learned about the scholarship, I dismissed the idea of applying because there was no way I stood a chance,” Smith said. “But after a while I started wondering, ‘why not me?’ After a lot of research and some encouragement from two of my mentor-coworkers, I finally submitted the application. When I learned I had been selected for the scholarship, I couldn’t believe it! I cannot thank SHRM and Grantham enough for this wonderful opportunity.”

“Catherine has the drive and determination to complete anything she sets her mind to,” said Michael Hooker, Grantham’s senior manager – organizational partnerships. “These are characteristics that will carry her far in her education. We’re excited to help her pursue her degree and accomplish her ultimate goal of becoming an HR manager.”

Catherine received the scholarship during SHRM-KC’s March luncheon. She will be pursuing her Master of Science in Performance Improvement.

In 2012, Grantham University launched the first virtual SHRM Chapter in Kansas City and Missouri. The Chapter provides students with the opportunity to network and benefit from the professional association in the same convenient method in which they are pursuing a degree.

To learn more about Grantham’s Master of Science in Performance Improvement, please visit: http://www.grantham.edu/online-degree/master-of-science-in-performance-improvement/ or call 1-800-955-2527.

References:

• http://www.grantham.edu/in-the-news/society-for-human-resource-management-partners-with-grantham-university/