Judy Papernick ’79 Scholarship Elevating Student Success
Written by: Grace Conde, Assistant Director of Experiential Learning
From left to right: Quentin Toulson and Chazunda Sinakapande
The Judy Papernick ’79 Experiential Learning Program Scholarship provides financial support for students completing unpaid summer internships.It assists recipients with associated costs of completing an internship and it represents an investment in their experiential learning and their goals at Chatham University and following graduation. Quentin Toulson and Chazunda Sinakapande were the winning recipients and each awarded $4,000.
Quentin Toulson ‘27 is completing his internship at the Mental Health Department at the Allegheny County Jail in Pittsburgh, PA. For Quentin, this scholarship will allow him to have “the opportunity to fully focus on gaining significant experience in the mental health field without the extra stress of financial challenges”. He explains how this scholarship will help him “continue learning, progress my career, and make the most of this opportunity”.
As a psychology student, Quentin’s academic experiences at Chatham University have strengthened his interest in mental health advocacy and serving underserved and marginalized communities. Through his coursework and internship experience, he has developed a deeper understanding of the importance of empathy in mental health support.
“This experience has fueled my desire to serve people and taught me the value of tolerance, empathy, and mental health support in challenging situations”
One of the most impactful aspects of his internship has been the opportunity to work directly with individuals facing significant emotional and psychological challenges. Through this experience, Quentin has developed greater confidence while gaining firsthand exposure to the realities of mental health services. "Working closely with patients on sick calls and helping them overcome personal challenges has challenged me to step outside of my comfort zone and improve my professionalism and communication skills," he said.
Following graduation, Quentin plans to pursue a master's degree in Forensic Psychology with the goal of becoming a forensic psychologist working alongside government agencies and law enforcement. He credits both his academic experiences and internship opportunities with helping shape his career aspirations and providing valuable insight into the field.
The Judy Papernick Scholarship not only provides financial assistance, but it also empowers Chatham students to explore experiential learning opportunities. "My experiences have taught me the value of advocacy, empathy, and resilience, particularly for those who may feel ignored or overlooked," Quentin said. For this recipient, the support represents an investment in both his education as well as his future impact and meaningful contributions in the mental health field following graduation.
For Chazunda Sinakapande ‘27, the Judy Papernick Scholarship represents recognition of his academic journey and an opportunity to continue working towards his goals. Originally from Zambia, Chazunda is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Economics with a minor in Accounting at Chatham University. For Chazunda, this scholarship means much more than financial assistance.
“Receiving the Judy Papernick ‘79 Experiential Learning Program Scholarship is far more than a financial award. It is a profound affirmation that my journey, shaped by perseverance, purpose, and a deep commitment to service, is seen and valued.”
Chazunda credits Chatham University with helping him develop both professionally and academically, sharing that his experience has “sharpened both my analytical mind and my sense of civic responsibility”.
During the summer 2026 semester, Chazunda is completing his internship with AMA Support Services in Pittsburgh, PA. He is working with the Director of Finance and Payroll and is gaining experience applying economic concepts and developing formal policy frameworks.
Following his graduation from Chatham University in May 2027, Chazunda plans to work with international development organizations in the areas of economic policy and governance. His ultimate goal is to return to Zambia, where he aspires "to design and advocate for economic frameworks that improve the daily lives of ordinary Zambians creating jobs … [and] building more resilient communities”.
Chazunda emphasized that his path has been shaped by many different roles and opportunities that have informed his perspective on leadership and public service. "My dream is not to occupy a prestigious office, but to be the kind of economist and advisor who helps translate data into dignity, who ensures that policy does not just look good on paper but actually reaches the woman selling goods at Chongwe market, the farmer near Lusaka trying to make a harvest last, and the young person who dares to believe their country can offer them a future”.
Reflecting on his journey so far, Chazunda describes learning that “opportunity is not simply given; it is earned through sacrifice and sustained effort. This scholarship reminds me that there are people willing to invest in that effort, and that responsibility weighs on me in the most motivating way”. For Chazunda, receiving the Judy Papernick Scholarship represents a gratifying recognition of the hard work and dedication he has put into his studies and the hope he has for his future and his goals.
As they continue their academic and professional journeys, Quentin and Chazunda embody the spirit of the Judy Papernick Scholarship, using their experiential learning opportunities to grow as leaders, serve others, and prepare for meaningful careers that create positive change.