AAUW – Bradford Branch Scholarship

Sophia Lorryn Oliver is the recipient of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) – Bradford Branch Scholarship. Oliver was selected for this scholarship based on her scholarship, academic achievement, and community service. A 2018 graduate of Bradford Area High School, Oliver is currently pursuing a bachelor of science degree in Exercise Science/Pre-Physical Therapy at Slippery Rock University (SRU).  Oliver is enrolled in a “fast track” academic program that will allow her to obtain her B.S. degree and Doctorate in Physical Therapy in a six year period. In January of 2020, Oliver traveled to Tena, Ecuador with a MEDLIFE group from SRU. MEDLIFE is a volunteer-run global health organization dedicated to making meaningful and sustainable differences to communities experiencing extreme poverty. While in Ecuador, Oliver worked side by side with health care professionals in medical clinics and assisted with a community development project. According to Oliver, the experience opened her eyes to possibilities of someday working as a physical therapist in areas of the world where the needs are great and resources are scarce.  Oliver has been named to the Dean’s List of Scholars, and is a member of the Pre-Physical Therapy Club, MEDLIFE, and the Exercise Science Society Club.

Sophia is the daughter of Jill Parisella-Campbell and Michael Oliver, and is the granddaughter of Faye and Scott Parisella and Ella Mae and the late Douglas Oliver.