AAUW Naperville Area is pleased to announce two recipients for the 2023 Sue Topp Inspirational Leadership Scholarship. Francesca Romano and Megan Kairies each will receive $5,000 to help complete their undergraduate degrees. The scholarship recognizes women who have stepped up to lead within their schools and communities, and who desire to make meaningful contributions to society, both now and in the future.

Francesca Romano

Francesca Romano is a first-generation undergraduate student attending Grand Canyon University in Arizona where she is pursuing a degree in marketing and advertising with a Spanish minor. On campus, she serves as the marketing coordinator for the Latino Student Association, with a commitment to promoting educational success for Latino youth in the greater Phoenix area. Over the past year, she also has worked as a resident assistant and a mentor for the Women in Business Organization, guiding young women as they continue their academic and professional careers. She is eager to complete her degree this fall and pursue a career in the beauty industry where she can develop an inclusive community that will promote confidence for women. She hopes to serve as a role model for other first-generation women and empower them to create their own destinies.

Megan Kairies

Megan Kairies is a passionate feminist who strives to help her community. She is pursuing a health science degree at Aurora University where she is currently the vice president of HOSA-Future Health Professionals. She also was past president of the GEMS (Girls Engineering, Mathematics and Science) Club. Megan’s core values include honesty, determination, education, thoughtfulness, and a good work ethic. In her free time, she enjoys painting, playing piano, and working with Circle-K to do community service. She hopes to one day be a physician associate.