Many people have heard the expression “when one door closes, another opens,” but an addition that has become a personal mantra for Hailey Shevitz is, “and when you walk through that door, make sure to hold it for the person behind you.” Shevitz’s commitment to humanitarian aid, justice and helping make the world a better place is evident through the numerous events and activities she participates in. She is the 2025 winner of the Richard Ralph Winter Phoenix Rising Humanitarian Scholarship, which rewards humanitarian achievement and service to University of Wisconsin–Madison undergraduates in the College of Letters & Science.
Shevitz has created a unique academic path that will help put her humanitarian goals into action. She is majoring in international studies and pursuing three certificates in French, leadership, and global culture, languages, and education. She’s also taken advanced Spanish courses and is a member of the highly selective Wisconsin International Scholars Program and is pursuing Honors in the Liberal Arts. One of her most impactful academic experiences on campus was in a course on immigration that introduced the fluidity of the concept of justice, which she believes can be mirrored in the notion of aid. Like justice, aid changes shape depending on the context and audience and exists within a wider social, political and cultural framework that must be carefully navigated by those proposing to offer aid.
Shevitz’s academic interests are directly reflected in her volunteer work, leadership in mental health and social justice programs, and humanitarian philosophy. She has taught English in Morocco, served as a literacy coordinator in Costa Rica, and led multiple American Foundation for Suicide Prevention walks, having raised well over $75,000. Hailey defines humanitarianism as “learning about others’ experiences and suffering, asking questions, and stepping out of your comfort zone to help find solutions.” Humanitarianism as curiosity is a thread that permeates her views of what aid is. Some people think of aid only in the tangible sense, such as medical supplies and food rations, but she believe aid can be so much more. After graduating, she plans to pursue work with immigrants or refugees.
“I recognize my responsibility to challenge the harmful legacies left by my ancestors in the countries where I work or visit. This pushback must come through dedicated research, careful observation and meaningful conversations,” Shevitz says. “I know that my strong leadership and lifelong commitment to curiosity will drive me towards a career where I am able to learn from — and help — those who need it most.”
The scholarship committee was impressed with Shevitz’s humanitarian relief efforts in local communities, leadership experiences, advocacy for mental health and flexible and optimistic outlook regarding her future path. The College of Letters & Science thanks the Richard Ralph Winter Phoenix Rising Humanitarian Scholarship Committee for their service in supporting this scholarship process and undergraduate students.
The Richard Ralph Winter Phoenix Rising Humanitarian Scholarship is made possible by the generosity of Charles Manthey Winter (’66). The scholarship recognizes humanitarian achievement and service, encouraging excellence and commitment in the application of humanitarian ideals and affirming the moral obligation to provide for human welfare.