Fueled to create change, Grissom Scholar awarded PPIA fellowship

Courses at Centre taught Karina Lamadrid Benavides, class of 2026, the power of public policy. Through her international studies and politics classes, she connected these realizations with her desire to create real change.

“I realized so much of the progress we hope to see in our communities starts with policy decisions,” Karina said. “That inspired me to want to be a part of that change, to contribute to my community and make a meaningful difference.” 

That drive to lead change in the world will receive a boost this summer, thanks to the Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Fellowship. Over the summer, Karina will attend the 2025 PPIA Junior Summer Institute at the Princeton University School of Public and International Affairs. During this six-week period, she’ll receive public policy and leadership training, have the opportunity to network with industry professionals, and more. 

“I am looking forward to the challenge of graduate-level coursework and the opportunity to grow intellectually,” she said. “I’m also excited to meet new people from different backgrounds and build relationships with others who are just as passionate about public service as I am.” 

The chance to connect with like-minded students will further stoke Karina’s passion which Sarah Scott, Director of the Grissom Scholars Program and Associate Dean, has seen firsthand. 

“She is going to be a difference-maker,” Scott said. “She is just too passionate, too smart and too motivated not to be. I think the connections she will make and what she’ll learn will be incredibly important.” 

After graduation, Karina hopes to do nonprofit work while preparing for the LSAT and eventually go into a career in law and public policy. Her experiences at Centre have been a critical stepping stone along the path toward her future. Along with the relationships and opportunities she’s enjoyed during her college years, Karina credits the resources she’s had access to, especially as a Grissom Scholar, with helping her earn the PPIA Fellowship and grow as a student-leader. 

“My time at Centre has pushed me to step outside my comfort zone, try new things and build relationships,” she said. “The support here has made a big difference in helping me pursue opportunities like the PPIA Fellowship.” 

According to Scott, Karina’s drive has been an inspiration for other students as she consistently takes aim at lofty goals. Instead of fearing rejection, she sees each experience as a learning lesson.

“She knows every opportunity gets her closer to her career goals,” Scott said. “She makes an example of herself with the different experiences she’s had, encouraging others to go for it.”

Students interested in exploring the world of fellowships are encouraged to contact Robert Schalkoff at fellowships@centre.edu.