Saint Martin’s University announces 14th cohort of Benedictine Scholars

Saint Martin’s University is proud to announce the 14th cohort of Benedictine Scholars. Since its inception in 2012, the Benedictine Scholars Program has promoted a deeper understanding of the Catholic, Benedictine values and heritage that are foundational to Saint Martin’s. This year’s cohort of scholars continues that tradition by demonstrating not only academic excellence, but also a deep commitment to faith, service, leadership and community engagement. 

The mission of the Benedictine Scholars Program is to cultivate exceptional undergraduate student leaders who embody the Benedictine values to inspire and transform Saint Martin’s University through study of the Rule amidst intentional community, exploration of faith, service and academic success. Each Benedictine Scholar receives a $10,000 scholarship annually, renewable for four years, in addition to other financial aid. These scholars serve as ambassadors of Saint Martin’s core themes—faith, reason, service and community—on campus and beyond. 

“We are delighted to welcome this new group of Benedictine Scholars,” said Patty Lemon, dean of admissions and enrollment. “These students have shown remarkable initiative, compassion and a strong desire to lead with purpose. What inspires me most is their awareness of the responsibility that comes with leadership, and their desire to make a difference in the lives of others. This program empowers them to live out the Benedictine values in transformative and meaningful ways.” 

Faculty and staff from across the University reviewed over 200 applicants to select this year’s cohort. Those chosen stood out for their academic achievement, demonstrated leadership, service in their schools and communities, and alignment with the University's mission and values. 

The 14th cohort of Benedictine Scholars are: 

• Viana Bernard from Xavier High School, Chuuk, Micronesia, will major in Educational Studies 

• James Hastings from Yelm High School, Olympia, WA, will major in Theology & Religious Studies 

• Kyla Palmer from Henrietta Lacks Health and Bioscience (HeLa) High School, Vancouver, WA, will major in Biology 

• Jacob Parker from Seton Catholic College Preparatory High School, Camas, WA, will major in Nursing 

• Noah Potucek from Curtis Senior High School, University Place, WA, will major in Business Administration 

• Camila Romo from Bishop Amat Memorial High School, Hacienda Hts, CA, will major in Civil Engineering 

• Arely Sanchez Medina from Mossyrock High School, Mossyrock, WA, will major in Civil Engineering 

• Audrey Skipworth from Mother of Divine Grace School, Bonney Lake, WA, will major in Environmental Studies 

• Aly Umemoto from Mid Pacific Institute, Honolulu, HI, will major in Accounting 

• Nolan Watlington from School of Industrial Design Engineering and Art, Ruston, WA, will major in Business Administration 

Nick Coffman, director of campus ministry and staff advisor of the program, expressed enthusiasm about the incoming cohort. “Each year, I’m reminded that our students are the heart of Saint Martin’s. This new cohort is an exceptional group of bright students with great heart who rose to the top during our competitive selection process,” Coffman shared. “The Benedictine Scholars Program invites them to live intentionally, to listen deeply and to serve with joy. I can’t wait to walk alongside this group as they grow into leaders rooted in compassion, justice and peace.” 

The incoming cohort will be guided by Nick Coffman and a faculty advisor, who will lead the scholars through a curriculum designed to engage deeply with Saint Martin’s Benedictine identity and to foster leadership that is grounded in service and community. 

For additional information contact:

Nate Peters, MBA, Vice President of Marketing & Communications and Interim Vice President of Institutional Advancement

Nick Coffman, MA, Director of Campus Ministry & Advisor for Benedictine Scholars Program