Giving Profiles

Scholarships: Dora Walmsley A'07
James V. Donatelli Endowed Scholarship Recipient

Pictured:
Dora Walmsley receiving an award from Leah White, director of Duquesne University Volunteers.

James V. Donatelli was not a Duquesne alumnus, but he was a devout Catholic who believed in the University’s mission and its emphasis on service and volunteerism. His bequest created the James V. Donatelli Endowed Scholarship, which made its first award in 2007.

The initial recipient, Dora Walmsley, A’07, was a sociology major and active member of the Duquesne University Volunteers (DUV). As a result of the scholarship award, Walmsley was able to spend the summer of 2007 studying conflict resolution in Ireland.

“The opportunities given to me by this scholarship are apparent,” she wrote just before leaving for the Emerald Isle. “Having the chance to travel abroad is something that I never thought would happen, and it’s only because generous people see the importance of education and how hard it is to afford a good one. There is no doubt in my mind that this experience will have a lasting impact in my life, and I look forward to the many doors that will be thrown open because of this.”

Walmsley now works as a community case manager with the Brashear Association on Pittsburgh’s South Side. There, she coordinates two food pantries, energy assistance programs, holiday toy drives, and a mentorship program for girls. She also provides information and referral services through the association’s Self-Sufficiency Program.