In Memory
We were deeply saddened to learn that one of our dedicated students in the Spanish Department, Jessica Lynn Aaron, died suddenly on Tuesday, February 28, 2006. She was a sophomore at Indiana University of Pennsylvania, studying toward an academic minor in Spanish. It was at Greensburg-Salem High School where she developed her passion for the Spanish language and its many cultures. In fact, Jessica had visited Costa Rica during high school and continued studying Spanish at IUP. She was also
eagerly planning to study in Valladolid, Spain through IUP’s study abroad program during the spring semester, 2007.
Jessica demonstrated to all an intense desire to study abroad where she felt she could really perfect her Spanish, which she had already learned to speak and understand quite well. More importantly, Jessica felt that living in a Spanish speaking country for an extended period of time would provide her the perfect opportunity to immerse herself in the culture.
We wish to perpetuate Jessica’s name in the University and the Department through the creation of the JESSICA L. AARON MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FOR STUDY ABROAD. Through this fund we will be able to extend Jessica’s passion for the language and its cultures by providing financial support to other equally interested students to be able to study abroad and thus live the experience that Jessica so longed for.
Here is a link to some words of reflection on the death of Jessica offered by Professor Dawn Smith-Sherwood during the University's Memorial, April 10, 2006. Reflections
At IUP we have three very successful study abroad programs for students studying Spanish, a full semester in Valladolid, Spain, six weeks in Cuernavaca, Mexico, and four weeks in Heredia, Costa Rica.
Help us honor Jessica's memory by making a donation to the Jessica L. Aaron Memorial Study Abroad Scholaship. Make a donation online , and please be sure to note Fund #5292 in the comments area.
Or, pledge your support using our printable pledge form.
Follow this link to read the Foundation for IUP's statement regarding its registration with the Pennsylvania Department of State and its status as a charitable organization.
Questions may be directed to the Office of Annual Giving at 724-357-5555.
