Texas State graduate student receives Kenneth H. Ashworth Fellowship

Elyse Greenamyre, a Texas State graduate student pursuing her master’s degree in social work, has been chosen as one of two students in the state of Texas to receive the Kenneth H. Ashworth Fellowship. Administered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, the scholarship provides financial assistance to students enrolled in graduate programs in public affairs, public service or public administration. 

Having graduated from Texas State with a bachelor’s degree in psychology in 2018, continuing her education and work with on-campus organizations was a natural fit for Greenamyre. 

“The work I do on campus is focused on spreading education and awareness about substance use disorder and mental illness,” said Greenamyre, who started the Student Recovery Alliance in 2017. The organization is open to all students who are in recovery from substance use disorder or interested in learning more about recovery. 

It was this work that helped her stand out in the fellowship selection process. “The fellowship was quite competitive, so being recognized for the work that I am doing with recovery and mental health is truly humbling,” said Greenamyre. 

She has worked with Texas State’s Student Health Center since the Student Recovery Alliance was founded, to help students, coordinate outreach events, and plan fun, sober social events. 

“The Student Health Center has been instrumental in the formation and maintenance of this group by providing a safe space where students can have open conversations about their struggles and work together on solutions,” she said. “I am in long-term recovery from substance use disorder, so my personal struggles inspired me to create a support group on campus.” 

While helping Texas State students has been rewarding, Greenamyre wants to help as many people as possible. 

“I love public service and plan to spend my career in this sector…I could see myself one day creating policy that would make positive changes throughout the entire state of Texas,” said Greenamyre. 

Fortunately, this fellowship will help make that possible. “I am so grateful for the financial pressure that has been relieved due to this generous fellowship…I am just so honored to have been selected as a winner and to be able to represent Texas State in this capacity.”