This scholarship helped to cover my seminary costs after a year of voluntary service between college and seminary. It also made it possible to work only part-time during my studies, which meant I could focus on my full-time coursework and make the most of the time with other students. I'm especially grateful for scholarships like this that made attending seminary possible as a young person without significant savings. - Sophie Lapp Jost, MDiv, 2018, Germany

I am Micheline Ayitoma Ilonga, born in Kikwit, Republic of Congo. I am married and have two teenagers: a 17-year-old boy named David and a 15-year-old girl named Eviella, we live on Campus. I obtained a degree in law from the University of Kinshasa in the DRC in 1994. I have been working as a judge in the DRC since 1997. I am pursuing a Master of Arts in Theology and Peace Studies at Anabaptist Mennonite Seminary (AMBS). This program contributes to my spiritual growth as a Christian and a leader. Understanding God's vision of well-being for all helps me to consider peace from a different perspective, without which other strategies will remain ineffective. Since last September, I have been confirmed as an elder at Prairie Street Mennonite Church, where I fellowship with my family. My education in this field allows me to serve my community with efficiency. I am grateful for the Jacob & Mary Fretz Scholarship. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, reading, and socializing with people at church. - Micheline Ilonga, MATPS, 2025, Elkhart, Indiana (originally from Republic of Congo)

I was baptized in and continue to be a part of a Mennonite church in India. The lack of Anabaptist education in India drove me to pursue seminary education at AMBS. However, I couldn’t imagine relocating and leaving my family and church behind. Scholarships such as the Ella Mae Lehman Scholarship make it easier for women like me to continue living in their home country while pursuing seminary education online. I am immensely grateful for this scholarship. - Elisabeth Kunjam, current student, Maharashtra, India