Awards and Rankings
March 2, 2023
COVID-19 health precautions kept Jasmine Yee and her Class of 2024 from getting the full, in-person experience when they joined the University of Portland community in the fall of 2020. But after navigating that first year of online learning, Yee has been virtually unstoppable ever since—an inspiring force of caring and creativity on The Bluff.
For her dedicated work and positive impact inside and out of the classroom, Yee—a junior nursing major from San Jose, Calif.—has been honored as a finalist for the prestigious Harry S. Truman Scholarship.
As one of 199 finalists representing 133 institutions nationwide, Yee will soon participate in a regional interview for one of roughly 60 scholarships awarded annually to college juniors. Truman Scholars are aspiring leaders who demonstrate a strong record of public and community service. According to The Truman Foundation, its rigorous selection process considers a candidate’s “policy proposal that addresses a particular issue in society.”
Yee’s platform blends her love of art with her budding advocacy for health care and social justice.
Her own artistic work—which explores and embodies cultural inclusivity—has been nationally recognized by the Chinese American Museum in Los Angeles and Bay Area’s Valley Transportation Authority, among others. To amplify other artists’ visions to promote social justice, Yee launched the Feminist Jazzy Art Gallery on Instagram (IG: @feminist.jazzy). With more than 52,000 followers, it has become Instagram’s fourth largest women-focused art curating site.
Just over a year ago, Yee founded an Artist-in-Residence program on the UP campus. As program director, she is committed to showcasing underrepresented student perspectives and to create inclusive spaces on campus through art. And with an eye on the future, Yee has developed an internship program to ensure UP artists-in-residence continue to share their creative works beyond her 2024 graduation date.
In addition to her nursing studies and her active role in UP’s Honors Program, Yee carries minors in innovation and entrepreneurship. She is keen on developing her financial and business acumen to support her philanthropic work.
“We are incredibly excited the Truman Foundation is choosing to recognize Jasmine’s unique talents, drive for social justice, and potential as a change maker in the world of health care,” said Cara Hersh, UP’s Assistant Provost of Scholarly Engagement and Career Readiness. “She has already enacted important change at UP and we can’t wait to see how her unique strengths will be used to serve others in the future.”
Truman Scholarship winners for 2023 will be announced in mid-April. Truman Scholars receive up to $30,000 for graduate or professional school, participate in leadership development activities, and have special opportunities for internships and employment with the federal government.
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