Kate Hartshorn ’23 traded Denver’s mountain snow for California’s coastal sunshine to start her Chapman journey. Always dreaming of college in the Golden State, she was drawn to Chapman’s location, small class sizes and close faculty connections.
Receiving the Chapman Fund’s Provost Scholarship brought her dream within reach, making it possible to participate in Semester at Sea, conduct research abroad, and form lasting connections to guide her as she steps into her future.
“My favorite thing about being a Chapman student was the people!” she shared. “I found an amazing community, met lifelong friends and received invaluable mentorship from inspiring faculty.”
As an environmental science and policy major, Kate undertook two senior research projects—one on attitudes toward climate change in Orange County and another monitoring winter conditions and water seasons in Western Colorado. She also joined a National Science Foundation-funded research program in Rwanda, where she worked on a coffee farm measuring the efficacy of organic treatments in wastewater management.
“It was rewarding to oversee every part of the research process and to collaborate with farmers and the University of Rwanda,” Kate said. “I admired the community’s deep connection to the land and the kindness that permeated daily life.”
Beyond research, Kate broadened her horizons with Semester at Sea in Spring 2022 and worked on campus at Phonathon. Her time at Phonathon was not just about work, but about growth. It was here that she honed her leadership skills and developed a deeper connection to the Chapman Family.
Kate’s Provost Scholarship made her Chapman Experience possible, and today, she supports the Chapman Fund to help empower students through scholarships and countless enhancements to campus life.
“The Chapman Fund truly impacts every student here,” Kate explained. “For many, it’s through scholarships, but the Chapman Fund also supports students who aren’t on scholarship, ensuring everyone can benefit.”
As she embarks on her next adventure, Kate feels confident in the tools and community Chapman has given her. Above all, she’s grateful for the lifelong connections she’s made.
“I feel so fortunate to have had the chance to attend Chapman,” she reflected. “I met incredible students and professors, and I know those relationships will support me as I take my next steps forward.”
You can help support future Panthers like Kate by contributing to the Chapman Fund today.
