Stacey Huynh
Stacey Huynh (BS17) was recently awarded a 2017-18 Alumnae of Northwestern University Graduate Fellowship to help support her work and graduate studies in higher education administration and policy.
“I’ve always had an affinity for helping under-represented and under-served communities since I am part of these communities,” said Huynh, who grew up in Cicero, Illinois and is part of the first generation of her family to attend college. “Social justice is extremely important to me.”
As an undergraduate at SESP, Huynh studied human development and psychological services and also majored in sociology with a concentration in social inequality. Seeking challenges beyond the classroom, she joined Sigma Psi Zeta, a progressive, multicultural sorority that supports women of color, and formed the Vietnamese Student Association, eventually becoming president of both award-winning organizations.
She also volunteered, advocated, protested, organized service projects, worked for local non-profits, and earned several individual awards throughout college, including the Wildcat Impact Award for Integrity; The Rock Distinguished Contribution Award; and the Athena Scholarship from the Alpha Beta Chapter of Sigma Psi Zeta, which is awarded to strong women leaders at Northwestern based on academic and leadership excellence.
Huynh, the daughter of Vietnamese immigrants, also has a strong interest in Asian/Asian American social justice issues, including the “model-minority” myth, which suggests that certain demographic groups do better socioeconomically than others. Huynh was always bothered by this notion “because it erases the struggles of communities living in poverty,” she said.
Huynh, now pursuing a Master of Science degree in Higher Education Administration and Policy at Northwestern’s School of Education and Social Policy, is currently working as an admission counselor in the Undergraduate Admissions Office. After graduation, she hopes to work in a role that improves the quality of school and student life.
The Alumnae of Northwestern award is given to alumni who are poised to make a difference in their chosen field, with preference given to those who plan to pursue a career in public good. Huynh and the other winners were selected for their scholarship, leadership, community service, professional experience and financial need.
“As part of the minority, I’ve experienced racism, sexism, and other forms of discrimination. It has greatly influenced my worldview and day-to-day living,” Huynh said. “But I’ve had the privilege of overcoming adversity and exceeding many barriers my communities face. My goal now is to improve social inequalities for others.”