Three University of Iowa undergraduate students are able to study abroad in spring 2026 thanks to support from the Leona Zaharis Scholarship, a fund that was established in 2022 by Cathy Zaharis (BBA finance ’82) in memory of her mother.
Cathy’s mother, Leona, never went to college, but she made it a priority to explore the world. Cathy wanted to give University of Iowa students the opportunity to follow in her mother’s footsteps. Meet two of this year’s recipients:
Mailliw Figueroa Alvarado is a second-year pre-law student majoring in international relations with a minor in business administration and a certificate in international business, from Ottumwa, Iowa. Figueroa Alvardo is studying abroad in spring 2026 on the CIMBA Italy program in Pieve del Grappa, Italy.
“I chose CIMBA because it provides a unique opportunity to learn foundational business courses in an international setting. I’m excited to immerse myself in Italian culture and engage with local communities through the volunteer opportunities offered, which further reinforced my decision to attend this program. I am also looking forward to the independent travel opportunities, as I have never been to Europe!
My future goal is to attend law school, and I believe this special experience will not only enhance my adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills but also broaden my perspective by exposing me to different legal systems. I am eager to explore different cultures and perspectives that will enrich both my personal growth and academic experience.
As a first-generation student, the Leona Zaharis Scholarship represents both encouragement and belief in my goals, reassuring me that opportunities like study abroad are within reach. This support allows me to fully engage in this transformative experience and inspires me to eventually give back and support other first-generation students.”
Julia Oakland is a third-year student majoring in biology with a certificate in public health, from Story City, Iowa. Oakland is studying abroad in spring 2026 on the Lancaster University Exchange program in Lancaster, England.
“I chose the Lancaster University Exchange program because it is at a large research institution and is very close to the English Lake District, which is of particular interest to me as a natural sciences major. The exchange program also lets me to be fully integrated with my English peers, allowing me to have more independence. I am excited to explore surrounding areas in the United Kingdom and to learn more about culture and history!
I think my study abroad experience will allow me to have a better understanding of geography, climates, culture, and perspectives that differ from my own, helping me to become a more conscious scientific researcher and well-rounded person.
The Leona Zaharis Scholarship has been a great honor and privilege to receive, as I would not have been able to study abroad without its support. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity that this award has given me, and I plan to learn as much as possible from this experience considering that.”
The Leona Zaharis Scholarship supports up to two $1,000 scholarships for summer and winter sessions, up to two $2,000 scholarships for fall and spring semesters, and up to two $3,000 scholarships for academic or calendar year programs.
To help more University of Iowa students go abroad, make a gift today!
International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement. IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.