Coughlin STEM Scholars
Connection to CTD
When Cathy M. Coughlin, a Northwestern University graduate and member of the Board of Trustees, passed away in 2015, she left a legacy of success grounded in hard work, talent development and passion for learning. Her life and big dreams for bright young women inspired several of her friends and family members to approach Center for Talent Development about establishing a scholarship program in Cathy's memory.
Since the introduction of the program, Cathy's brother, Kevin, and her friends Therese Fauerbach, Phyllis Lockett, Peg Murphy, and Melissa Oakley have given their time, talents, and financial support to keep this scholarship opportunity available for young women from the Chicago/Evanston area. Many other individuals and organizations have joined them in generously supporting the cause.
The Coughlin "team" is special to CTD and we appreciate their commitment to the amazing young women we are proud to call Coughlin STEM Scholars.
Active Years
2010s-present
Bio
The Coughlin STEM Scholarship program was officially launched during the summer of 2015 with its first cohort of five students.
Each year between five and ten new scholars are selected, based on availability of funds. Scholars are young women in grade 6 from the Chicagoland area who have a strong interest and ability in STEM areas.
They participate in the program through grade eight, receiving the following opportunities and benefits:
- Annual celebration luncheon with friends and family of Cathy Coughlin,
- Full scholarship to take a STEM course in CTD's three-week summer residential academic camp held on Northwestern’s Evanston campus,
- Participation in CTD's above-grade-level assessment to identify academic strengths and engage with a community of peers,
- Scholarship to participate in a CTD weekend enrichment program or an online course, and
- Access to CTD Backpack, online communities for students and parents.
Advice to Your Younger Self or Someone Considering CTD
Cathy Coughlin was vocal about women having equal opportunities in corporate leadership. In 2014, she said the following about how young women could achieve their goals: "First, take advantage of opportunities. I have never turned down an opportunity in my career. Second, surround yourself with the best people – people who are smart in ways you are not. Third, take ideas, turn them into plans, and do what others say can't be done."