UMKC Celebrates Class of 2025 Trustees’ Scholars

Six fresh alumni share their post-graduation plans
Photo of five of the graduating Trustees' Scholars together with their stoles

The University of Missouri-Kansas City’s Trustees’ Scholars Program is a signature program of the university that provides prestigious scholarships and access to the UMKC Trustees’ knowledge, connections and mentorship for first-time students.

Meet the six students from the Class of 2025 UMKC Trustees’ Scholars cohort, including one who graduated in the winter. They shared their plans after graduation and what being a Trustees’ Scholar means to them.

Z Kemp

Bachelor of Science, civil engineering
Minor in communication studies

Kemp will join Kiewit Corporation, a national construction and engineering firm, as a civil engineer.

“The Trustees’ Scholars Program was instrumental to my college experience and success,” Kemp said. “Through the program, I’ve been mentored by dedicated business leaders in the Kansas City area, granting me opportunities that I will carry with me as I depart from UMKC.”

Vari Patel

Bachelor of Business Administration, emphasis in finance
Bachelor of Arts, political science

Patel plans to attend law school as her next step.

“Being a Trustees’ Scholar has meant more than just financial support,” Patel said. “It’s been an investment in me as a person, leader and future public servant. The program has helped me grow beyond the classroom, shaping my character and commitment to service. I’ve learned the value of giving back and look forward to returning that investment by supporting the UMKC community in the years to come.”

Ethan Kauffman

Bachelor of Music Education, instrumental

Kauffman is excited to begin his career as a music educator and director of bands at Black Hawk Middle School in Warrenton, Missouri.

“My experience as a Trustees’ Scholar has been enriched by incredible experiences interacting with the most impactful people in the Kansas City area,” Kauffman said.” Whether it’s attending professional enrichment, a civic gala or chatting with Trustees over lunch, this program has no shortage of excitement! I am incredibly thankful for the support of the program, donors and leadership, as well as their part in making my experience at UMKC fantastic!”

Emma Schilling (graduated in December 2024)

Bachelor of Business Administration, emphasis in marketing

Following graduation, Schilling plans to continue doing freelance graphic design work and grow Studio Em, a graphic design business she started in 2020.

“I had a wonderful experience being a UMKC Trustees’ Scholar,” Schilling said. “It has been one of my biggest blessings, and I have loved learning and growing alongside my fellow scholars. The individuals I met during the past four years and my experiences have greatly impacted my life. My favorite part was the mentorship program and the connections I made at Bernstein-Rein Advertising.”

Jaeden Johnson

Bachelor of Fine Arts, dance

Johnson plans to stay in Kansas City to teach dance to children and work as a freelance artist. She plans to travel and audition for dance companies after a full recovery from an injury.

“I am forever grateful to have been a part of the Trustees’ Scholars Program because I learned how to be a better human,” Johnson said. “It gave me the support I needed through my college journey. I’m thankful for the opportunities and the connections I made, which I will carry throughout my life.”

Maddie Kunz

Bachelor of Science, biology
Minor in chemistry

After graduation, Kunz will attend the UMKC School of Dentistry to pursue a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree.

“Being a Trustees’ Scholar has been a life-changing experience,” Kunz said. “This scholarship program gave me endless support and opportunities; I always felt like I had someone in my corner. I would not be here today without it!”

Published: Jun 27, 2025

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