Women's Leadership Academy

2008 Photos and Bios

Rebecca Bax is a senior at Lincoln University, pursuing a degree in sociology with a minor in history. She is a non-traditional student balancing school and family. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society, Community Connection of Lincoln, Student Ambassadors and AAUW (American Association of University Women). Rebecca presented an informational session educating voters about the proposed ballot initiative repealing Affirmative Action in Missouri. Her mentor was Ann Littlefield. Rebecca was later asked to repeat her presentation for the local chapter of the AAUW. After graduation, she plans to continue her education at Lincoln seeking a Master’s in history and sociology with the opportunity of internship to affect public policy. Rebecca will be a 2008 Fellow at the Sue Shear 21st Century Gateway Leadership Academy in St. Louis.

Stephanie Berhorst is a junior at Lincoln University. She is the daughter of Michael Berhorst and Paula Whithaus. Stephanie serves as a Supplemental Instruction leader for psychology and is involved in research for psychology, as well. She was recently recognized at the Student Leadership Awards Convocation for outstanding service to the University. Stephanie is a psychology major and statistics minor, and upon graduating she hopes to attend graduate school in a field of Psychology. Stephanie’s presentation topic was “Identity Theft,” and her mentor was Mary Simmons.

Cynthia Bridges is a junior at Lincoln University majoring in psychology with a minor in elementary education. After graduating in the spring of 2009, she plans to pursue a master’s degree in guidance and counseling. She is a current member of Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society. Cynthia is also active on campus as a Supplemental Instruction leader for history classes and is a teaching assistant in psychology. She has been conducting research with Dr. Mara Aruguete on a grant from the U.S. Army. Cynthia’s presentation topic was “Leadership for Young Women,” and her mentors were Dr. Laurel Kramer and Janice Orr.

Ashley Gauss is a junior majoring in biology. She participated in the Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences (MANNRS) program in 2007 and is a member of the Tri-Beta Honor Society. Ashley has also been a member of the Campus Activity Board and served as a Student Ambassador. Her presentation topic was “Working Mothers,” and her mentor was Dr. Jennifer Schnieders. Ashley will be a 2008 Fellow at the Sue Shear 21st Century Gateway Leadership Academy in St. Louis.

Alicia Mehrhoff is a junior dual-majoring in political science and history with a minor in business administration. Alisha is a member of Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society, and the Pre-Law Club. Off campus Alisha enjoys working on furthering her pilot’s license and spending time with her three younger siblings. Alisha served as an intern with Rep. Bob Dixon in the spring of 2007, and is now interning with Rep. John Quinn and Rep. Joe Smith. Her presentation topic was “Rape and Abuse,” and her mentor was Pam Otto. Alisha will be a 2008 Fellow at the Sue Shear 21st Century Gateway Leadership Academy in St. Louis. Upon graduating in the spring of 2009, Alisha plans to attend law school and hopes for a future involving legal practices as well as politics.

Corinna Willis is a senior majoring is agriculture. She has served as a lab assistant and volunteer tutor in biology. Corinna is a member of the Agriculture Club and Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society. She also served as president of the Student’s Food Service Committee, and she attended the 2007 Diversity Outlook Forum in Washington D.C. Corinna’s presentation topic was “Mentoring.” Her mentor was Vikki Myers. Corinna will be a 2008 Fellow at the Sue Shear 21st Century Gateway Leadership Academy in St. Louis. After graduation, she hopes to continue learning in the field of plant science.