About Hannah Zeller
Hannah Zeller is an alumna of Dominican University School of Social Work (SSW) class of 2018. Hannah was 32 when she passed away on October 29, 2023, following a tragic cardiac arrest resulting from an accidental choking incident. Hannah's journey began at Oak Park River Forest High School, where she cultivated her passion for the arts and community involvement. She then pursued her Bachelor of Arts degree from Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, majoring in Community Leadership and Art History, before earning her Master of Social Work from Dominican University in 2018.
Hannah's dedication to mental health advocacy and support led her to a role as Programs Manager at the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA), where she created innovative programs to assist children and youth struggling with mood disorders. Hannah was poised to embark on a new chapter in her career as the Program Manager for Prevention of Youth Suicide at the American Academy of Pediatrics before her untimely passing.
Hannah's love for life was reflected in her diverse interests, from her affection for black coffee, big round earrings, and gold jewelry to her appreciation for autumn, Gilmore Girls, art museums, and Erykah Badu. She was a talented theater director and performer, having been involved in theater from a young age, and was also active in choir throughout her school years.
Her generous spirit extended beyond her professional endeavors. Through her advocacy for the unhoused and her commitment to supporting those in need, she touched countless lives. Her creation and management of educational and wellness resources, including the DBSA Mood Crew program, the DBSA Wellness Wheel, and the "I'm Living Proof" podcast series available on Apple and Android platforms, touched the lives of millions.
About the Scholarship
The Hannah Zeller Legacy Scholarship for Promoting Mental Health Advocacy and Access for At- Promise Children and Youth aims to support students dedicated to advancing mental health advocacy and access for children and youth, reframing their perspectives from "at-risk" to "at promise." This scholarship celebrates the belief that every young person possesses inherent potential and deserves equitable opportunities to thrive.
"At promise" acknowledges the strengths, talents, and resilience of children and youth, emphasizing their capacity to succeed given the right support and opportunities. It shifts the narrative away from deficit-based language and promotes empowerment through positive reinforcement and inclusive practices.
Mental health awareness is crucial in fostering holistic development and well-being among young individuals. By addressing mental health challenges early and proactively, we can nurture a generation that is emotionally resilient, socially engaged, and capable of reaching their full potential.
The scholarship recognizes the fundamental social work values of social justice, dignity, and respect for all individuals. It underscores the importance of advocating for equitable access to mental health resources, dismantling barriers to care, and promoting inclusivity in mental health services for children and youth.
Application Requirements
- Complete an application
- Submit your resume
- Submit a reflective essay (no more than 400 words) detailing their vision for promoting mental health advocacy among children and youth, focusing on innovative approaches that support the "at promise" framework. Additionally, applicants should outline their commitment to social work values and their personal experiences or initiatives related to mental health awareness.
- To ensure that the scholarships are distributed equitably, we will not consider you for this award, if you have been awarded with the Horizon or the Sweet Scholarship.
Award Details
The scholarship provides financial support to two outstanding students (in the amount of $1,000 each) who demonstrate a deep commitment to advancing mental health advocacy and access for children and youth. Recipients will not only receive financial assistance but also mentorship opportunities to further their impact in the field of social work and mental health.
Deadline and Submission
Close Date: September 15, 2024
Contact Information
For inquiries about the Hannah Zeller Scholarship, please contact Dr. Adrian Kok at ajkok@dom.edu
This scholarship honors Hannah Zeller's legacy of compassion, dedication to mental health advocacy, and commitment to empowering children and youth. Join us in transforming lives and communities through proactive mental health initiatives and support for our future leaders.