Stony Brook Senior Honors College student Rachel Alexandre has been awarded the Voyager Scholarship, the Obama-Chesky Scholarship for Public Service. Alexandre, who is pursuing a double major in globalization studies and international relations and political science, with a minor in creative writing and literature, is one of only 100 students nationwide selected for the 2024-2026 cohort.
The Voyager Scholarship, created by President Barack Obama and Brian Chesky, co-founder and CEO of Airbnb, was designed to support future leaders dedicated to public service. It provides recipients with financial aid to alleviate college debt, meaningful travel experiences to expand their horizons, and a network of mentors and leaders to support them. For Alexandre, who is passionate about community service and international travel, the scholarship felt like a perfect fit.
“I found this scholarship through an Instagram ad, and when I learned more, it felt like everything I love — helping communities and traveling — combined,” shared Alexandre. “I’ve been on two study abroad programs with Stony Brook, and I love traveling. This was a perfect match for me. I really love community service and volunteering, so I got to work on the application right away.”
Alexandre’s passion for helping underserved communities began as a child when community service was emphasized by her family. Now she plans to use her Voyager journey to focus on equity and resource allocation. Though her destination is still in the planning stages, her commitment to social justice is clear.
“Food insecurity is a problem that happens everywhere, even in developed nations like the U.S.,” Alexandre explained. “It’s not just about where I go; it’s about the impact I can make when I get there.”
Her experience studying abroad has prepared her for this challenge. After her freshman year, she participated in a Stony Brook program in Geneva, Switzerland, engaging with United Nations organizations including the World Health Organization and the World Trade Organization. She studied in Greece the following year.
Alexandre also holds a student leadership role at Stony Brook’s Center for Civic Justice (CCJ), where she has worked for several semesters. “At CCJ, we focus a lot on voter registration, educating people about their rights, and fostering community dialogue,” she said.
“Rachel Alexandre has served as an undergraduate coordinator for the CCJ for the past academic year," said Ashley Liegl, assistant director of the CCJ. "She has helped lead our institutionalized voter registration efforts...I truly admire her commitment."
“Rachel Alexandre is an outstanding example of the great potential our Stony Brook students hold for global impact through scholarship and service,” said Interim President Richard L. McCormick.
In addition to her work at CCJ, she is involved in various other activities including working as a box office assistant at the Staller Center for the Arts.
While considering post-graduate options, Alexandre knows that her future will involve giving back to the community. “Public service is definitely the path for me,” she said.
The Voyager Scholarship aims to develop leaders passionate about creating positive change. “I still can’t believe it,” Alexandre said upon learning of her selection.