Central ND News

Tess White, an 18-year-old from Spring Grove, Illinois, has been awarded the Cardinal Newman Society’s ninth annual essay Scholarship Contest. The scholarship provides her with $20,000 toward her education at the University of Mary in Bismarck, North Dakota. White will begin studies in the university’s Nursing Academy in fall 2025.

White stood out among applicants nationwide for her essay that described college as a “training plan for heaven.” She explained, “The idea just clicked. To succeed in life — the race we’re all running — you need the right kind of preparation. That’s what Catholic colleges like the University of Mary offer. I’m beyond honored and grateful to have won, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”

White first learned about the University of Mary through the Cardinal Newman Guide, which promotes Catholic colleges that follow Church teachings closely. After visiting campus and learning about its programs and community, she decided it was where she wanted to continue her education.

“When I visited the University of Mary, I immediately loved it,” White said. “The bluffs were stunning. The community was joyful and welcoming. The nursing program was very strong. And Bismarck — to my surprise — even had sushi and everything I’d need.”

She noted that attending in person after homeschooling appealed to her, as did completing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in under three years without tuition costs through the university's Nursing Academy.

“I was all in,” she said. “Even before the scholarship news, I was already planning to attend. This program lets me start my career sooner, with less debt, and with faith woven into my education.”

White emphasized that faith played a central role in her decision: “During my SOAR (Student Orientation Advising and Registration) visit, I saw the chapel in the freshman girls’ dorm and was blown away,” she said. “Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, Wednesday morning community worship — I realized faith wasn’t just part of life at Mary. It is life.”

Looking forward to campus life where sacraments are accessible and Catholic values are integrated into academics—including health care—she expressed enthusiasm for mission trips and other experiences offered by Mary’s Nursing Academy.

Though initially uncertain about pursuing nursing, White credits encouragement from friends and family for inspiring her choice: “I want to be compassionate and capable — especially in neonatal or mother-baby units,” she said. “But long-term, I could see myself becoming a nursing instructor.”

White also offered advice for students making college decisions: “Apply for scholarships. Don’t panic. And say the Surrender Novena,” she said. “I prayed it and was able to let go of the stress. God really does place you where He wants you.”

University of Mary President Monsignor James Shea commented on White’s achievement: “Tess represents everything we hope for in a University of Mary student,” he said.“She’s faithful, joyful, intellectually curious, and eager to place herself in the service of Truth.”

This fall White will join more than 3,800 students at University of Mary from across the country and internationally as she begins her undergraduate studies.