Purdue Fort Wayne names 2026 Summit Scholars, awarding top students full-ride scholarships

Purdue University Fort Wayne has announced the recipients of its prestigious 2026 Summit Scholars awards, recognizing a select group of incoming students for their exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to service.

The Summit Scholars Program is one of the university’s most distinguished and competitive scholarship initiatives, designed to attract and support high-achieving students through a rigorous and personalized educational experience. Scholars are selected through a highly competitive process and represent some of the most accomplished high school seniors in the region and beyond.

Summit Scholars compete for two of Purdue Fort Wayne’s most prestigious full-ride scholarships: the Chapman Scholarship and the Doermer Distinguished Scholarship. These merit-based awards provide full tuition, on-campus housing, textbooks, a food stipend, and fees for up to four years.

“This program reflects Purdue Fort Wayne’s commitment to investing in talented students who will lead, serve, and make a meaningful impact in their communities,” said Chancellor Ron Elsenbaumer. “Our Summit Scholars exemplify academic excellence and a passion for leadership that will shape the future."

Each year, six incoming freshmen are selected as Chapman Scholars—students who demonstrate outstanding achievement both inside and outside the classroom. In addition to receiving comprehensive financial support, Chapman Scholars engage in challenging coursework, experiential learning, leadership development, and meaningful civic engagement opportunities throughout their time at Purdue Fort Wayne.

Students pursuing majors in business and hospitality and tourism management may also be selected for the Doermer Distinguished Scholarship, which provides additional opportunities for mentorship, internships, travel, and professional networking.

A hallmark of the Summit Scholars Program is its emphasis on service. Collectively, scholars contribute more than 600 hours of community service each academic year, reinforcing the program’s mission to develop engaged citizens who understand the importance of giving back.

The program’s impact extends beyond graduation. Summit Scholars achieve a 100% post-graduation placement rate, transitioning successfully into careers or graduate and professional programs.

Howard Chapman, whose generosity helped establish the Chapman Scholars Program, emphasized the program’s mission and long-term impact.

“The main idea behind the Chapman Scholars Program is to bring the best and the brightest of high school seniors to Purdue University Fort Wayne,” Chapman said. “Applicants are offered a full four-year scholarship that covers nearly all college-related expenses and includes other unique opportunities. Once here, they are expected to maintain their academic excellence and dedicate time to the Fort Wayne community. When they graduate, we want them to feel that Fort Wayne is home—or at least a second home—and that Purdue Fort Wayne is their school.

“The criteria for choosing scholars is simple: merit, and only merit. Each fall, I meet an incredible group of young students beginning their journey, and each spring, I see them graduate as accomplished individuals ready to make Purdue Fort Wayne proud. It is very gratifying."

The following students have been named 2026 Chapman Scholars:

Aimee Kathryn Abraham, of McLean, Virginia, plans to major in mechanical engineering. A senior at McLean High School, she has excelled both academically and athletically, serving as a varsity soccer captain and earning multiple honors. Aimee hopes to pursue a career in biomedical engineering, with a focus on prosthetics and medical technology.

Sarah Ballard, of Huntertown, Indiana, plans to major in biology. A senior at Carroll High School, she has been actively involved in a variety of academic, artistic, and service-oriented activities, including the National Honor Society and volunteer initiatives. Sarah aspires to pursue a career in orthodontics and is passionate about creating a positive impact through mentorship, community involvement, and meaningful connections with others.

Katelyn Frazier, of Bruce Township, Michigan, plans to major in biology. A senior at Fraser High School, she is an accomplished student-athlete and leader, serving as captain of multiple track and cross-country teams and holding leadership roles in several academic organizations. Katelyn aspires to become a hematologist and is committed to making a lasting impact both on campus and in the community.

Kendall Hoeffel, of Lebanon, Ohio, plans to major in mechanical engineering. A senior at Lebanon High School, she is a dedicated student-athlete and leader, serving as captain of multiple varsity teams and president of the National Honor Society. Kendall hopes to pursue a career in propulsion systems and contribute to advancements in space exploration.

Shakira Myint, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, plans to major in human services on a pre-med track. A senior at East Allen University, she has demonstrated strong leadership through roles including student council president and National Honor Society vice president. Passionate about mental health advocacy, Shakira aspires to become a psychiatrist and expand access to mental health care in diverse communities.

Laila Robinson, of Crown Point, Indiana, plans to major in biochemistry. A senior at Merrillville High School, she has been actively involved in a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities, including orchestra, athletics, and healthcare-focused organizations. Laila aspires to become a pediatrician and is passionate about serving as a role model for young women of color in her community.

The following student has been named 2026 Doermer Distinguished Scholar:

Ellie Ulrich, of Springboro, Ohio, plans to major in marketing. A senior at Springboro High School, she has demonstrated leadership as a varsity soccer captain and has been actively involved in athletics and community service. Ellie aspires to build a career in sports marketing and is eager to connect with others and make a positive impact on campus.

As they begin their journeys at Purdue University Fort Wayne, the 2026 Summit Scholars are poised to make a lasting impact. Through their leadership, service, and academic excellence, they will help shape the experience of their fellow students and strengthen the campus community. Their contributions will extend beyond campus, supporting the continued growth and vitality of Fort Wayne and the greater northeast Indiana region, while positioning them to make meaningful contributions on a broader scale.