NDSU graduate student Ibukunoluwa Ajayi-Banji has received a prestigious fellowship from the American Association of University Women. Ajayi-Banji, who received an American Fellowship, is pursuing her doctorate in agricultural and biosystems engineering.
“The fellowship award provides an avenue for my work on post-harvest technology of stored grains to farmers in North Dakota, and my commitment to the advancement of women and girls in my home country, to be showcased and made more impactful,” Ajayi-Banji said.
For the 2021-2022 academic year, the association awarded $5 million through its fellowships and grants programs to 260 scholars and community projects that promote education and equity for women and girls.
For more than a decade, Ajayi-Banji has been dedicated to empowering young girls in her home country of Nigeria through her faith-based nonprofit known as Blessed to be a Blessing, or B2BAB.
“This opportunity fuels my drive to forge ahead in my career and profession, focusing fully on my program and my goal to deliver to my highest possible potential to serve humanity whilst also providing hope and inspiration to girls and women of color, empowering them to know that their dreams are achievable if they keep being tenacious and focused,” said Ajayi-Banji.
Ajayi-Banji earned her bachelor’s degree at Obafemi Awolowo University, Nigeria, and master’s degree from the University of Ilorin, Nigeria.
“This year’s recipients are making valuable contributions in a wide range of fields, but with a common goal of improving life for all of us,” said Gloria Blackwell, American Association of University Women executive vice president and chief programs officer. “We’re impressed by what these scholars are doing and excited about the great things they’ll accomplish throughout their research and careers.”
The AAUW is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization with more than 170,000 members and supporters across the United States, as well as 1,000 local branches and more than 800 college and university members.
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