5 Stamps Scholars from Pennsylvania earned full tuition to Pitt

The University of Pittsburgh has named five incoming members of the Class of 2026 Stamps Scholars. The scholarship is awarded to Pennsylvania high school seniors who exemplify leadership, scholarship, service, perseverance and innovation — the qualities needed to forge a successful academic path.

The award covers full tuition, room and board, and mandatory fees, plus provides an allowance for books and supplies and up to $17,400 in enrichment funds applicable for study abroad opportunities, unpaid internships and other academic-related pursuits. Pitt is one of 37 colleges and universities to partner with the national program.

More than 800 Pennsylvania high school seniors applied for the prestigious award at Pitt this year.

“After a lengthy selection process, the five incoming Stamps Scholars stood out for their desire to further understand and apply leadership from a domestic and global perspective, as well as their commitment to academic excellence and a service to their communities,” said Ron Jankowski, director of operations for admissions in the Office of Admissions and Financial Aid.

Geina Shaker of Greensburg, Pennsylvania, is one of Pitt’s Stamps Scholars starting college this fall. She plans to pursue medical school after earning an undergraduate degree.

The University’s rigorous academics, research and clinical opportunities, and robust service-learning offerings made Pitt her top choice, she said.

“I was eager to apply to be a Stamps Scholar because I knew it would elevate my experience at Pitt,” said Shaker. “The scholarship completely removes the financial burden of college so I may focus on my academic, extracurricular, professional and personal growth.”

The 2022 Stamps Scholars are:

• Cesar Guerra-Solano, Horsham, Pennsylvania
• Samantha Podnar, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Gia Routh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
• Chelsea Seegars, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
• Geina Shaker, Greensburg, Pennsylvania

— Nichole Faina, photo composite by Chris Markle. From left to right: Samantha Podnar, Cesar Guerra-Solano, Geina Shaker, Chelsea Seegars and Gia Routh.