As an SFS student in Kenya during the spring of 2004, Heather Jo Leibowitz showed an impressive dedication to making a difference in the resource-dependent communities in which she lived and studied.

Reflecting on her experience, Heather wrote the following passage in her journal:

“Presenting our findings to group ranch officials and local community members was the single most rewarding experience of my time in Kenya.  Knowing that we were sharing information that could potentially have a real, positive effect on the lives of ordinary Kenyans as well as help preserve vital natural resources for humans and wildlife alike was incredible… there is no other word to describe it. It was wonderful to feel like all of us were making a positive difference, albeit a small one, in the area.”

An endowed scholarship has been established by her family and friends in her honor, and it is granted to a student participating in a Tanzania program who has expressed an interest in continuing the community work that Heather began.

A recipient of the Heather Jo Leibowitz Memorial Scholarship recently shared her reflections and appreciation with the donors of this special fund. She wrote:

“This past semester in Kenya and Tanzania has undoubtedly been the most valuable and transformational experience of my life… I am so grateful to have had the amazing experience of living in East Africa for a semester, and I would like to express my deepest gratitude for your contributions to SFS which essentially made this semester possible for me.”

To join the Leibowitz family in building The Heather Jo Leibowitz Memorial Scholarship, you can Donate Here.

If you would prefer to mail your gift, please send a check made out to:

The School for Field Studies
ATTN: Donations
P.O. Box 506
West Boxford, MA 01885

Please indicate on the check that the gift is designated for the Heather Jo Leibowitz Memorial Scholarship.

Alternatively, you may call SFS and we will take your credit card donation over the telephone: 978.219.5109.

Donors will receive an acknowledgement from The School for Field Studies. All contributions are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.