Four Windsor Students Recognized for Leadership and Achievement
The St. Clair Centre for the Arts in downtown Windsor hosted a celebration of female leadership on Friday, November 7, 2025, as four outstanding young women received prestigious ATHENA scholarships. The annual luncheon, organized by the ATHENA Scholarship Fund Windsor and the Windsor Essex Chamber of Commerce, honored students who exemplify academic excellence, community involvement, and the ability to inspire others.
Each recipient received a $5,000 scholarship during the event that brings together community leaders to support the next generation of female trailblazers. The 2025 award winners are Kaitlin Ferraro, Gihan (Gigi) Joseph, Linda Nguyen, and Sarah Wilkins.
Celebrating Leadership That Inspires Change
Loretta Stoyka, president of the ATHENA Scholarship Fund Windsor, emphasized the program's mission during her address. "The ATHENA Scholarship celebrates individuals whose values, leadership, and determination inspire others to reach higher," said Stoyka. She added that each recipient embodies the spirit of ATHENA, demonstrating how authentic leadership creates a ripple effect of excellence throughout the community.
The selection committee evaluated candidates based on multiple criteria including community involvement, leadership potential, academic achievement, and the demonstrated ability to inspire women to reach their full potential. This comprehensive approach ensures the scholarships recognize well-rounded individuals making significant contributions beyond the classroom.
Meet the 2025 ATHENA Scholarship Recipients
Kaitlin Ferraro is currently in her fourth year of the Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Biomedical Science program at the University of Windsor. Her leadership extends far beyond academics as she founded and leads Students Advancing Leadership for Women and Sport (S.A.W.S.). Ferraro also serves as a peer mentor supporting student mental health and has raised funds for Ronald McDonald House Southwestern Ontario. Her academic achievements include receiving the 2025 University of Windsor Women in Science Award and maintaining placement on both the Dean's List and President's Honour Roll for three consecutive years.
Gihan (Gigi) Joseph recently graduated from the University of Windsor Faculty of Law with a Juris Doctor degree in 2025. Her academic journey began at Western University where she earned both Bachelor of Arts (Honours) and Master of Arts degrees in Political Science. Joseph's educational path demonstrates a consistent commitment to excellence across multiple disciplines.
The event featured Paralympic gold medallist and leadership coach Danielle Campo McLeod as keynote speaker, who delivered an inspiring address titled "The Champion Within." McLeod, a 2025 King Charles Coronation recipient, shared insights about unlocking personal potential. Windsor Star managing editor Craig Pearson served as the event emcee, guiding the celebration that continues Windsor's tradition of championing remarkable young women.
The ATHENA Scholarship program in Windsor has established itself as a significant force in recognizing and supporting female leadership development. By providing both financial support and public recognition, the program amplifies the impact these young leaders are already making in their communities and beyond.
