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Bellevue West Graduate Receives CSM’s Marie Curie Scholarship

Tuesday, June 4, 2024

OMAHA, Neb. – College of Saint Mary (CSM) has selected Kara Muller, a 2024 Bellevue West graduate, as a Marie Curie Scholar starting in the fall. Muller was surprised with a scholarship check for $80,000 on Tuesday, May 21. Muller receives the scholarship after standing out in academic talent and showing outstanding leadership service.

“Kara is a passionate student with an incredible work ethic who excels at setting and working towards long-term goals,” said Kristina Arbruster, an AP physics teacher at Bellevue West. “Kara is one of the most determined students I have ever worked with. Whether on the cross country course or in the classroom, Kara is not satisfied with giving an effort less than her best.”

College of Saint Mary’s prestigious Marie Curie Scholars Program, funded in part by the National Science Foundation, provides significant financial support and resources to outstanding young women pursuing study in STEM majors, such as biology, chemistry, human biology or math.

Marie Curie Scholars receive up to $20,000 annually for four years in gift aid. In addition to having access to substantial financial resources and facilities, participants also receive free tutoring, have opportunities for undergraduate research, and have access to top programs like the National Institute of Health and NASA research fellowships. Marie Curie Scholars also often attend and present at national conferences.

Muller earns the scholarship after achieving several honors at Bellevue West. Some of Muller’s academic and extracurricular accomplishments include:

  • Four-time cross country state qualifier (2020, 2021, 2022, 2023)
  • Three-time track state qualifier (2021, 2022, 2023)
  • Two-time basketball state qualifier (2022, 2023)
  • Three-time Metro All Academic Cross Country Team (2021, 2022, 2023)
  • Science National Honor Society member (2023-24)

At CSM, Muller will study biology and run cross country and track for the Flames. Located in Omaha, in the heart of Aksarben Village, CSM uses initiatives like the Marie Curie Scholar Program to provide women from all backgrounds with access to an affordable, excellent college experience, career-driven coursework and lifelong leadership skills.