Two students entering the University of Washington Department of Biostatistics Master of Science Capstone Program have received 2023 Office of the Dean Master’s Fellowship Awards from the UW School of Public Health.

Alejandro Hernandez and Obehi Ikpea, who begin their studies in autumn quarter 2023, will each receive $20,000. 

The Office of the Dean offers six of these awards ranging from $10,000-$20,000. 

Fellowship awards are based on merit, public service, personal experience and a commitment to diversity in public health. 

They recognize students who have overcome personal and educational obstacles and who have experience with, and connection to, diverse cultures.

“In the eight years I’ve worked at the UW, this is the first time I’ve ever had a single candidate win, let alone two,” said Minh Vo, associate director of student services and graduate program advisor for the department.

“Alejandro and Obehi have unique and diverse perspectives. Alejandro is passionate about equality and rights between men and women in data science fields and Obehi wants to improve health outcomes for third world countries like her own, Nigeria. Their grades were great, but their life experience and where they put their focus with their education is what makes them unique,” said Vo.