Investing in the Next Generation of Leaders: Celebrating Our 2026 Assurant Scholars

At Assurant, we believe that building the future of our business starts with investing in the future of talent. From early exposure to career pathways to hands-on learning experiences, we take a long-term, connected approach to developing the next generation of leaders.

One way we bring this commitment to life is through the Assurant Cares Scholarship Program; which was established in honor of Kunal Malhotra, an Assurant senior leader who passed in 2023. This scholarship supports and inspires students as they pursue their education and future careers.

Through this program, we award $5,000 scholarships to eligible dependents of Assurant employees.

Celebrating Our 2026 Scholars

This year, we are proud to recognize 10 exceptional students selected from a competitive pool of 73 applicants. Each scholar was chosen based on their:

• Academic achievement
• Demonstrated leadership
• Commitment to making a difference in their communities

These students represent more than strong academic performance; they reflect the curiosity, resilience, and forward-thinking mindset that will shape the future workforce.

A Broader Commitment to Early Career Development

The Assurant Cares Scholarship Program is part of our broader effort to support talent at every stage of the journey. Through initiatives like our Enterprise Internship Program, we are creating meaningful pathways for students and early-career professionals to gain experience, build skills, and explore opportunities within our business.

Together, these programs represent an intentional approach to talent development: one that begins early and continues over time.

Congratulations to our 2026 Assurant Scholars. We’re excited to see what you achieve next, and proud we’re able to support you along the way.

 

 

Where are our Assurant Scholars today?

Hear some of our previous recipients talk about the impact of their scholarship, how it has supported their education goals, and how it has set them up for success in their future professions.

 

Cody Germain (2024)

“The Assurant Cares Scholarship has allowed me to fully engage in campus life without the stress of tuition. As a junior Public Policy major at UMass Amherst, I took on a leadership role in the Student Government Association, working to improve processes and support initiatives that impact students. This experience has strengthened my interest in public service and helped me build skills for my future career. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity to invest more in my education and community.”

 

Phoebe Ortiz (2024)

“I’m finishing my junior year at Wittenberg University with a 4.0 GPA and continued Dean’s List recognition! I’ve gained hands-on experience working with students in grades P–2 and 7th as an Intervention Specialist, creating and teaching my own lesson plans and unit projects. I also built a website to showcase my work, including a math simulation game that students loved. In addition, I’ve continued tutoring and working in our campus food pantry and chapel. I’m excited to enter my senior year and continue my journey toward becoming an educator!”

 

Katie Quigley (2025)

“Receiving the Assurant Cares Scholarship played a significant role in advancing my academic career. As an architecture major, it has helped ease the mental and financial burden, allowing me to focus on my coursework and invest in the materials I need to succeed. This support has given me the confidence and sense of safety to take on challenging classes and continue building toward my future career. It’s also allowed me to take advantage of the school’s amazing co-op and workforce opportunities.”

 

Jayda Shelton (2025)

“This past year, I’ve continued to grow both academically and personally while staying focused on my goals. The Assurant Cares Scholarship has made pursuing my education much less stressful and has helped me better balance my academics with athletics. Because of this support, I’ve been able to dedicate more time and energy to both, without feeling overwhelmed. I’m truly grateful for the opportunities this scholarship continues to provide.”

 

Ethan Washburn (2025)

“I’m finishing my junior year at Wilkes University as a Business Finance major while continuing my journey as a student-athlete with one season of wrestling remaining. I’m looking forward to starting the next chapter in my career and very grateful to Assurant for helping me achieve that goal.”

 

Yamariah Taylor (2025)

“This year has been filled with important milestones in my path toward becoming a nurse, including earning a Level 4 score, the highest possible, on the TEAS exam. I also completed the semester with a 3.78 GPA while staying focused on my goals. The Assurant Cares Scholarship has helped ease financial stress, allowing me to prioritize my education and continue striving for excellence. Ihave recently been accepted into Florida A&M University’s School of Nursing, which is an exciting next chapter in my journey.”