Introducing 15 inspiring associates making a difference in their communities.
AEO’s Steven A. Davis Scholarship for Social Justice is a $5 million commitment to advance post-secondary educational opportunities for associates who are actively driving anti-racism, equality and social justice initiatives. Since the launch in 2021, we have awarded more than $1.3 million to 79 associate scholars who share our passion for creating a more equal and inclusive society.
We are thrilled to introduce the 2025 associate scholars from across the U.S., Canada and Mexico who are demonstrating the power of their positive actions and voices to inspire real change.
Monica is an AE Brand Ambassador, planning to attend the University of South Florida. She has made a significant impact in her community by starting a chapter of the “Girl Up” club at her high school to address period poverty through organizing drives and donations for menstruation products. This initiative has provided essential hygiene products to hundreds of girls in her community.
“As a woman I have seen firsthand the struggles we face and I would like to be a vessel for change in helping young women and girls succeed.”
Jasmine is a Merchandise Leader at AE, entering her junior year at The University of Western Ontario. She has dedicated herself to social justice through various initiatives including fundraising for humanitarian aid with the Arab Student Association, preparing food relief boxes for families in need through Islamic Relief Canada and working with Western Dream Team to raise funds for Make-A-Wish Canada.
“Change to me looks like communities coming together to uplift one another through education, advocacy, and empathy. It means challenging injustice, amplifying underrepresented voices, and building systems that serve everyone with dignity and fairness.”
Michael serves as a Brand Ambassador at AE and is a sophomore at The Ohio State University, majoring in Computer Science and Engineering. He is deeply committed to social justice, demonstrated through his volunteer work at the Coleman Crisis Center and active involvement in student-led organizations such as the Black Student Union, Bible Club and the Diversity Committee.
“Every ‘no’ I heard became a reason to find my ‘yes’.”
Milana is an AE Brand Ambassador planning to major in Journalism at the University of Southern California in the fall. She actively fosters an inclusive environment at her school through her involvement in the Black Student Union, where she organizes events like the Black Excellence Dinner and Multicultural Fair. Milana also dedicates her time to community service by participating in Special Olympics events, food drives and the Youth Advisory Council.
“I am excited to receive this scholarship because it gives me the reassurance and confidence to achieve my academic dreams. This gives me the chance to make my mark on the world and become someone who makes her dreams come true.”
Oumy is an Aerie Brand Ambassador entering her freshman year at the University of Wisconsin Madison for Environmental Science. She has made a difference in her community through her school’s Fine Arts Leadership Board by taking a leading role in creating a sensory-friendly concert, making the arts more inclusive and accessible for children with disabilities.
“Change to me looks like everyone having an equal chance and equal resources to succeed.”
Aaron is an AE Brand Ambassador and Biology major at The Ohio State University with the goal to ultimately become a physician. Outside of his studies, Aaron is an active volunteer with The Kiwanis International Program and serves as Vice President of the Black Student Union. As a dedicated advocate driven by a strong sense of purpose, Aaron is committed to uplifting his community and paving the way for future generations.
“Be happy with what you do, because joy fuels purpose, and purpose illuminates the path to success.”
Sara works as a Stockroom Associate at Aerie and is a junior at Slippery Rock University. She is a passionate advocate for individuals reentering society after incarceration. Through the Bonner Leader Program at her university, Sara has accumulated over 650 hours of community service, contributing to programming and planning of service initiatives.
“I look forward to my education path because a career in law will allow me to advocate for the powerless and pursue justice.”
Lucas is a Senior Brand Ambassador at AE attending Indiana University Bloomington with plans to major in Fashion Design and minor in Spanish. Lucas has made a significant impact in his community as a Student Mental Health Advocate, using his personal experiences as an LGBTQ+ individual to support students in crisis through QPR training. Lucas also leads as President of the Bring Change to Mind Mental Health Club, Spanish Club and Student Council.
“Everyone deserves to be heard for what they have to say, and through advocating for the mental health of all students, we can change for the better as a society!”
Jade is a Sales Associate at Aerie, planning to major in Political Science at Hampton University. As part of the National Youth Advisory Board for Sandy Hook Promise, Jade has dedicated more than 300 hours to hosting summits, workshops, panels and has lobbied at Capitol Hill and the White House. Jade also leads the SAVE/Sandy Hook Promise Club at her school and participates in the Black Student Union Club to advocate for students and promote Black cultural education.
“To me, change looks like ensuring that the youth have a voice in a society that suppresses it because the youth is our future.”
Triya is an AE Brand Ambassador and freshman at the University of Tennessee Knoxville, majoring in Biochemistry with a minor in Public Health. She dedicates her time to volunteering at Erlanger Baroness Hospital and Erlanger Children’s Hospital, where she supports medical staff and interacts with patients. Triya also engages in public policy by attending city council meetings and is a member of UT Clinic Vols, assisting school nurses in low-income elementary schools to improve healthcare access.
“Change to me is growth—it’s learning from the communities around me, breaking barriers for those who come next, and turning purpose into action.”
Maria works as a Brand Ambassador at AE and plans to study Political Science with a minor in Sociology at The University of Tampa. As the Community Service Director of her high school’s Spanish Honor Society, she launched free English and GED tutoring for parents, bridging educational gaps for Hispanic families. Maria also founded a Law Club to educate students on their rights and advocated for immigrant education and community service as a delegate to Florida Girls State.
“My social justice work is important because it gives a voice to the unheard and helps create a fairer, more compassionate world.”
Lejla is an Aerie Brand Ambassador and freshman at Saint Louis University, pursuing Medical Sciences. Following the loss of her father, she created “The Bosnian Dream Project,” a website featuring podcasts and articles to destigmatize mental health within the Bosnian community. Lejla has expanded this project by organizing “Yoga & Conversation” events and collaborating with psychologists to give presentations at a local mosque, fostering open discussions about mental health.
“Change to me looks like recognizing the things that make us human.”
Kira is an AE Brand Ambassador entering her third year at Brock University, pursuing an Honours Sociology degree with a co-major in Labour Studies. She was elected for a two-year term to the Brock University Students’ Union, where she advocates for enhanced transparency, equity and student well-being, addressing issues like tuition disparities for international students. Kira is also the incoming president for Brock Relay for Life, an organization that raises funds for the Canadian Cancer Society.
“My social justice work is important because it allows me to advocate for those whose voices are often unheard, challenge systemic inequalities, and create spaces where every individual, regardless of their background, feels seen, valued and empowered.”
Elaila is a Brand Ambassador at AE and plans to pursue a degree in Biology at Ohio State University. Deeply committed to service and community impact with a strong foundation in healthcare and youth engagement, Elaila has volunteered with Mercy Health, Our Daily Bread and Coleman’s Crisis Center, and serves as a Big Brothers Big Sisters mentor.
“In life’s picture, focus on what’s ahead of you and not behind.”
Kavaughni is an AE Brand Ambassador and class of 2025 graduate planning to pursue Optometry. As Beta Club chapter president, Kavaughni channels her passion for outreach and social justice to make change happen within her community, ultimately hoping to provide affordable eye-care through local offices
“Make change happen! Outreach isn’t a chore, it’s a responsibility.”
