CLASS Philanthropy
THE
"Nikki Forever" SCHOLARSHIP FUND
The College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences is pleased to honor the memory of esteemed alumna, Nikki Delamotte, with the establishment of The Nikki Delamotte “Nikki Forever” Scholarship Fund.
Nikki Delamotte graduated from Cleveland State University (CSU) in 2011 with a BA in Communication. Always curious about the world around her, she became a highly respected and recognized journalist within the Northeast Ohio community. Nikki had covered Cleveland's cultural scene for several websites and publications, most recently Cleveland.com, and authored the book 100 Things to Do in Cleveland Before You Die. In November of 2018, her life was tragically cut short. Among the many honors and awards that were established in her name, Nikki's mother JoAnne Ullman, with guidance from Nikki’s friends, established the “Nikki Forever” scholarship fund to create a lasting tribute to Nikki—to her energy, her passion and her talents— as well as to inspire current and future CSU students to succeed. JoAnne stated, “Nikki loved Cleveland and CSU. This scholarship is a way that Nikki can spread that love with people who need help and will take full advantage of the opportunity with spirit.” The “Nikki Forever” scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate students majoring in any discipline within the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. As part of their application, students must prepare a 500-word essay discussing how and why curiosity and an open mind changed their perspective for the better. Regarding this essay criteria, JoAnne said, “Nikki’s natural curiosity and her love of everything creative are evident in everything she wrote. She had a unique ability to ask challenging questions in her gentle way, which put people at ease to share their stories.” Camilya Williams is one of the first students to receive the scholarship. Camilya is a nontraditional student majoring in Social Work and Black Studies, a member of organizations including NASW-Student Club and the Black Student Union, and an initiate of Phi Sigma Phi Honors Fraternity. In expressing her gratitude for this scholarship, Camilya said, “Words can never express what this scholarship means to me. My lifelong dream of education is being achieved due to the help from you.” She also added, “I am a first-generation student finishing my bachelor's degree with plans to continue on to graduate school. By doing so, I can continue to be a source of strength for those who feel powerless, a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves and a pillar of hope in my community.” Cleveland State University and the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences are incredibly grateful to honor Nikki Delamotte’s memory, both as a prominent alumna and as a significant journalist, writer and beloved friend to so many in the Northeast Ohio community. Dr. Allyson Robichaud, CLASS Interim Dean, notes: “We are indebted to JoAnne’s generosity, especially during such a difficult time, and will remain partners in honoring Nikki’s legacy through this scholarship.” Should you wish to help carry on Nikki’s legacy and make a donation to this scholarship fund, please visit csuohio.edu/giving or contact Constance Karapelou, Director of Advancement, at c.karapelou@csuohio.edu or 216-875-9838.
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