UWF Veteran Wins $25K Boren Scholarship to Study in Ghana

Sometimes coming home means moving forward. Younge Dogbe, a University of West Florida senior and U.S. Army veteran, has earned one of the nation's most competitive international scholarships to study at the University of Ghana, the country where he was born.

The Boren Scholarship will provide up to $25,000 for Dogbe to spend six months immersed in language and cultural studies starting August 2026. He's the first UWF student ever to receive this prestigious award, which supports Americans studying in regions critical to national security.

Dogbe currently works as a transition coach at UWF's Military & Veterans Resource Center, helping fellow veterans navigate college life. His director, Lori Milkeris, spotted the perfect match between his background and the scholarship's mission right away.

"As soon as I heard about the scholarship, I thought of Younge," Milkeris said. She encouraged him to apply, recognizing how his military service, academic focus on supply chain logistics, and personal connection to Ghana aligned with the program's goals.

The scholarship comes with a meaningful commitment. Recipients pledge at least one year of federal service in national security roles, strengthening America's diplomacy and defense workforce with language skills and cultural expertise.

For Dogbe, that requirement matches his career aspirations perfectly. He's preparing for work in international logistics and public service with organizations like the Department of State or the Defense Logistics Agency.

Why This Inspires

Dogbe's journey represents something bigger than one student's success. His path from Army service to classroom to international scholarship shows how investing in veterans' education strengthens national security in unexpected ways.

"This opportunity offers a meaningful way to reconnect with the region while developing skills aligned with my long-term goal of working in international and humanitarian logistics," Dogbe explained. He's especially excited about applying language learning in real-world contexts and understanding local systems firsthand.

His achievement also highlights UWF's growing commitment to global education. The John W. Merting Family Office of National Fellowships, funded by a generous donor, now provides resources and guidance to help students pursue prestigious international opportunities.

Claire Holderman, who coordinates the fellowship office, guided Dogbe through the rigorous application process and provided the university's official endorsement. "John W. Merting's generosity has provided a strong support system for UWF students pursuing these types of prestigious national and international awards," she said.

Dogbe will join other Boren Scholars studying intensive languages across Africa, Asia, Central and Eastern Europe, Eurasia, Latin America, and the Middle East. Together, they're building bridges between cultures while preparing to serve their country.

One veteran's dream of reconnecting with his roots is becoming America's investment in a more globally connected future.