Madison Koenig

2024 Gilman Scholarship Recipient

Hometown

Sandborn, IN

College

College of Health and Human Sciences

Major

Family and Consumer Science Education

 

Madison Koenig was awarded a Gilman Scholarship to complete the second half of her student teaching requirement in New Zealand. The country drew her attention through its diverse culture, history, and breathtaking landscape. She is excited by the chance to work in a different school system than the United States. Her family and consumer science education major prepares her to teach family and consumer science courses where students learn more than practical skills. She will teach the art and philosophy behind food and what it is about food that can unite people across all borders.

 

Despite a lack of exposure to multicultural diversity, Madison did not let that stop her from seeking opportunities to develop cultural sensitivity, increase awareness of social justice, and encourage inclusivity in education. She will bring these values to her future classroom as an educator.

 

As her follow-on project, Madison wants to return to her hometown to inspire her students to see themselves as part of the global community. No matter the size or limitations, it is possible to have a global perspective and cultural awareness to advance social justice for all students in her hometown. She will work to spread awareness through the local news and promoting the benefits of Gilman and study abroad in her classroom.