The Stephenson Scholars Program proudly welcomes its inaugural cohort at the University of Virginia (UVA) School of Data Science. These scholars were selected for their academic promise, demonstrated financial need, and unwavering commitment to using data for the public good.
Thanks to the generosity of Scott and Beth Stephenson — and the University's Bicentennial Scholars Fund — each Stephenson Scholar recipient receives a scholarship that meets 100% of their demonstrated financial need, eliminating the need to take out loans and work-study. Scholars also gain access to individualized mentorship, internship funding, academic support, and exclusive enrichment opportunities throughout their undergraduate journey.
The Inaugural Scholars
We’re proud to introduce the 2025-2026 Stephenson Bicentennial Scholars, future data scientists already making a difference with their impact and excellence.
Khalid Bakhit (Alexandria, VA)
Bakhit's recommender describes him as a creative, collaborative, and highly motivated student with great leadership potential. In his first year at UVA, he co-founded the Sudanese Student Organization, engaged in the Muslim Institute for Leadership and Empowerment, and worked on a capstone project regarding Financial Literacy in Islam.
In the field of data science, he plans to develop AI tools by "incorporating marginalized perspectives into the design... [to] broaden inclusivity and minimize partiality," underscoring his recommender's assertion that he has a true passion for projects that have a positive impact on society. Learn more about Bakit here.
Huda Mohmand (Woodbridge, VA)
Mohmand's recommender describes her as a perceptive and engaged student who enriched classroom discussion for all. He said that her work showcased her "commitment to the dignity of all people" and that in decades of teaching, he's "never encountered a student more likely to improve the world."
During her first year at UVA, Mohmand co-founded and is vice president of the Young Feminist Party at UVA, tutors local elementary school children, volunteers with the Waden Worldwide NGO supporting Afghan refugees, and is involved with several student organizations. She plans to double-major in Sociology to support her dream of using data science to improve global social systems. Learn more about Mohand here.
