College of Charleston Geology Major Named Goldwater Scholar
Junior Ashley Grant is the first College of Charleston geology major to receive the Barry Goldwater Scholarship.
College of Charleston junior Ashley Grant has been named a 2025–26 Goldwater Scholar. The first geology major at the College to receive this honor, Grant is one of only 441 students nationwide selected for the Barry Goldwater Scholarship.
The scholarship program honoring U.S. Senator Barry Goldwater was designed to identify, encourage and financially support outstanding undergraduates interested in pursuing research careers in the sciences, engineering and mathematics. Students receive up to $7,500 per academic year.
“Being a Goldwater Scholar will help me to reach my goal of becoming a scientist through financial support, along with demonstrating my dedication to research to future advisors and employers,” says the Concord, Massachusetts, native.
After completing her academic journey at the College, Grant plans to obtain a Ph.D. in geology with the goal of conducting research in volcanology and high temperature geochemical modeling.
“With over 5,000 applicants this year, Ashley’s selection as a Goldwater Scholar is a great personal achievement as well as a testament to the strong record of undergraduate research and mentorship at the College of Charleston,” says Jesslyn Collins-Frohlich, director of the College of Charleston Office of Nationally Competitive Awards, which helps students find and apply for awards that support their studies, research projects, learning new languages and studying abroad.
