Alana Maffesoli exemplifies the perseverance, service, leadership, and academic excellence that define the Post-graduate Scholarship. A two-time Big Ten Champion member of Michigan's women's rowing program, Maffesoli distinguished herself not only as a student-athlete, but as a scholar and servant leader committed to improving the lives of others through education, research, and advocacy.

Graduating from the University of Michigan with a Bachelor of Arts in Linguistics and Cognitive Science and a minor in Education for Empowerment, Maffesoli excelled academically while balancing the demands of Division I athletics, extensive community service, multiple jobs, and undergraduate research. 

Maffesoli's passion for helping others led her to pursue a career in speech-language pathology. Throughout her undergraduate years, she immersed herself in clinical, educational, and research experiences supporting children and adults with communication challenges. As a research assistant in the University of Michigan's Child Language and Literacy Lab, she explored the neurobiological foundations of language acquisition and literacy development, conducting research involving bilingual learners, children with dyslexia, and neuroimaging technologies. Her faculty mentors describe her as an exceptionally talented interdisciplinary scholar whose intellectual curiosity, empathy, and initiative set her apart from her peers.

Beyond the classroom and laboratory, Maffesoli demonstrated an unwavering commitment to service. She worked directly with children on the autism spectrum, served as a paraprofessional supporting students with disabilities, mentored fellow students, coached youth athletics, and held leadership roles within campus and community organizations. Her efforts to create accessible learning opportunities and advocate for individuals with communication challenges reflect a deep belief that every person deserves the opportunity to thrive on their own terms.

Those who have worked closely with Maffesoli consistently praise her compassion, creativity, and relentless work ethic. Whether balancing rigorous training schedules with academic pursuits, funding her own education through multiple jobs, or dedicating countless hours to serving others, she has approached every challenge with determination and purpose. Her commitment to understanding and uplifting marginalized voices, particularly within the disability community, demonstrates the kind of leadership and character that will define her future career.

Maffesoli is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology at Grand Valley State University, where she continues to build on her academic and clinical experiences. She aspires to become a speech-language pathologist who combines evidence-based practice with empathy, advocacy, and a person-centered approach to care.

“To me, this award is everything. This award is at a long last a burden lifted off my shoulders that I am not alone in my aspirations, and, rather, I am backed up by the greatest community there is. It is a sense of relief, and a guiding light on my path to changing so many lives. As I work to become a Speech-Language Pathologist, hoping to support families and children with language obstacles who feel they have nowhere else to turn, I can now spend my final semesters pouring myself even more so into growing as a clinician, rather than prioritizing pinching pennies and paying off debt, so that I can become a leader and best in this field and be fully prepared to change the world. I am so grateful for all my opportunities at Michigan, for all the people who came together to make this award possible, and for this award that truly means more to me than words can say. Thank you!"

We proudly recognize Alana Maffesoli as a recipient of the 2026 Post-graduate Scholarship and celebrate her outstanding achievements, service to others, and commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of those she serves.