HPU Student Receives Ollie Bieniemy Jr. Endowed Scholarship
HIGH POINT, N.C., March 23, 2023 – The Earl N. Phillips School of Business at High Point University awarded Tatiana Valente, a senior from Newport Beach, California, with the Ollie Bieniemy Jr. Endowed Scholarship.
Valente is a first-generation college student, with a double major in international business and French and francophone studies, and a double minor in finance and economics.
The Ollie Bieniemy Jr. Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships offered by the Earl N. Phillips School of Business. It was established in memory of Ollie Bieniemy Jr. in 2006 by his industry friends and colleagues. Bieniemy was the first advertising director of Furniture Today, the leading weekly business newspaper of the United States furniture industry. He was an integral part of the publication’s launch in 1976, bringing his passion for the industry as well as his ability to implement start-up goals. Bieniemy is remembered for his marketing acumen and relationship skills.
“It was an honor to receive the Ollie Bieniemy Scholarship,” Valente said. “I would like to express my gratitude to all those who contribute to this scholarship and to the faculty and staff in the Earl N. Phillips School of Business who have inspired me. HPU fosters an environment that encourages people to grow and flourish.”
During her freshman year, Valente joined Kappa Delta Sorority where she took on leadership roles such as the Director of College Facilities and the Academic Excellence chair. She is also a student justice, which has given her the opportunity to pursue her interests in becoming an attorney. She has studied abroad in Florence, Italy, at an HPU partner school, as well as completed an internship in France through Cultural Experiences Abroad (CEA).
When Valente graduates, she plans to attend law school and specialize in international law.
“The HPU faculty have continually encouraged me to explore my interests, eventually leading me to pursue an international business major,” Valente said. “Receiving this scholarship has motivated me to continue working hard and pursuing my educational and professional goals. I’m excited for what’s next.”
The merit-based scholarship is awarded to HPU seniors who best exemplify the values of the Earl N. Phillips School of Business. Criteria for selection include academic performance, university and community service, extracurricular activities, brightness of character and work ethic.