Jenna Gilbreath, ’23, had a chance encounter with Michael John Gallagher II, '19, during one of her student visit days. He gave her some great advice about her future as a Kent State student.
“Michael put my mind to rest when I found out he was a global communication studies student — exactly what I planned on doing,” Jenna said. “It was his senior year, and he planned on going into the Peace Corps after he graduated.” Joining the Peace Corps was also one of Jenna’s ambitions and that conversation with Michael reassured her that she was on the right path.
After thriving as a leader, ambassador, mentor and humanitarian at Kent State, Michael went on to pursue his dream of joining the Peace Corps where he was dedicated to teaching English to French-speaking children at CEG Yebessi in Benin, West Africa. But in 2020, just two days after his 24th birthday, Michael’s life tragically came to an end. During his short but impactful life, Michael was able to leave a legacy and positive impression on so many people, including Kent State students like Jenna.
After his death, friends and family established the Michael John Gallagher II Memorial Scholarship. And in a full-circle moment, four years after the conversation with Michael that made such a difference in Jenna’s life, she received his 2023 scholarship.
Just like Michael, Jenna is passionate about the community, advocacy and creating change. Her educational experiences through her communication studies major and media advocacy minor taught her the power of her own voice and story. She has served as a senator for the College of Communication and Information and served as president of the Undergraduate Student Government during her senior year.
“Michael made me feel at home at Kent State. He made me feel like we were supposed to meet and that there was a path for me. Michael has always been an inspiration to me, so it is an honor to receive this scholarship in his memory,” Jenna said.