In 2024, we welcomed our first cohort of Assurant Cares Scholarship Program recipients, having launched the program to commemorate the life and philanthropy of Kunal Malhotra, a senior leader at Assurant who passed away in 2023. Developed in partnership with Scholarship America, the program aims to empower and support talented young students as they follow their passions through higher education.
Each year, we proudly award $5,000 scholarships to eligible dependents of Assurant employees who are enrolled or planning to enroll in full-time undergraduate study at an accredited two- or four-year college, university, or vocational-technical school. The one-time award will be used for qualified educational-related expenses, such as tuition, room and board, and other fees, as well as necessary supplies like books and equipment for courses.
This year, we’re thrilled to recognize 10 incredible students whose passion inspires us. Out of 49 applicants, these students set themselves apart through their determination, academic achievements, and leadership in their communities. Here are our 10 recipients, along with some of their most impressive accomplishments.
PaytonLynn Baldwin
Linn-Benton Community College, class of 2029
Major: Agriculture Business
Tristen Beard
University of Texas at Austin, class of 2029
Major: Electrical & Computer Engineering
Carlos Dominguez
University of Florida, class of 2026
Major: Mechanical & Aerospace Engineering
Katie Quigley
University of Cincinnati, class of 2029
Major: Architecture
Jayda Shelton
Georgia State University, class of 2029
Major: Biology
Maci Simpson
University of North Georgia, class of 2029
Major: Biology
Yamariah Taylor
Florida A&M University, class of 2028
Major: Nursing
Emily Turner
Louisiana State University, class of 2029
Major: Pre-Med Biological Sciences
Ethan Washburn
Wilkes University, class of 2027
Major: Corporate Finance
Kennedy White
Columbia College, class of 2026
Major: Social Work
Congratulations to all our Assurant Cares Scholarship Program recipients! We’re so honored to be a part of your educational journey, and we can’t wait to see what you achieve next.
Damaris Gaines, class of 2025
“I have completed my undergrad with a degree in criminal justice. Once I finish my summer internship, I believe that my final GPA will be a 3.8, which will be summa cum laude. I have also been accepted and enrolled into Agnes Scott College for my graduate program, which will be clinical mental health counseling, starting in August 2025. I'm very excited for this next chapter.”
Cody Germain, class of 2028
“I had an amazing start to college. I’m currently majoring in public policy and recently added a minor in education; I’ll be taking my first education-focused course this upcoming fall. Academically, I’m proud to share that I earned a 4.0 GPA both semesters and was named to the dean’s list. Beyond the classroom, I’ve been deeply involved in student government. I joined the Undergraduate Student Senate and was recently elected to serve as the Associate Speaker for the upcoming year, where I’ll help oversee committee operations and support student-led initiatives across campus.”
Emily Llewellyn, class of 2025
“I graduated from Francis Marion University with cum laude and University Honors, finishing my last academic year on the president’s list! I completed my degree in biology and acquired a certification to teach high school. Starting in August, I will be a high school science teacher! I plan to continue my education journey and obtain a master’s degree in trauma-informed education at Columbia College.”
Phoebe Ortiz, class of 2027
“I finished my sophomore year with a 4.0 GPA and achieved dean’s list! I’ve had opportunities to work hands-on with children in grades P – 2 and 7th and create and execute my own lesson plans. I created a website outlining and promoting my work, field trips, and simulations — several of my classes really enjoyed my math simulation game! I was also selected to tutor my freshman year and maintained a work-study job in our church food pantry on campus, serving as an office assistant in the chapel. I have also registered to become an RA in my dormitory.”
As the year ends, reflect and set goals for 2025. Update your professional presence, strengthen your network, and invest in personal growth to finish 2024 strong and start the new year with confidence.
“We believe we have the power to make people’s lives better and continuously strive to advance a connected, respected, and protected world.”
This program aims to encourage and prepare diverse talent and innovative leaders for the future by supporting the educational aspirations of the next generation.
