Sukaina Jacquet Awarded Prestigious Otis Holloway Scholarship From Black Professionals in International Affairs

Sukaina Jacquet, a sophomore at Seton Hall University pursuing a Bachelor of Science and Juris Doctorate (B.S. + J.D.) with a 3+3 Diplomacy and International Relations program, has been awarded the 2025 Otis Holloway International Affairs Scholarship, established by Black Professionals in International Affairs – BPIA. The Otis Holloway Scholarship is highly competitive and prestigious nationwide, aimed at fostering leadership, service and a strong commitment to advancing diplomacy and building meaningful cross-border connections. This year, only three students across the country received this honor, making Sukaina’s second-place achievement particularly impressive.

Sukaina, who has a strong interest in corporate law and global governance, currently holds several leadership roles on campus. She is serving as the president of the Minority Pre-Law Society, a member of the Buccino Leadership Institute and a work-study coordinator with the Division of Volunteer Efforts (DOVE), where her program is the Don Bosco Youth Center. Sukaina’s active leadership roles on campus set the stage for her to receive the Otis Holloway Scholarship. Her dedication and perseverance in diplomacy demonstrate the importance of fully utilizing the opportunities available at the School of Diplomacy. Sukaina's application process began with the opportunities and scholarship announcements sent weekly to all diplomacy students by the dean’s office.

She explained,

I learned about the Otis Holloway International Affairs Scholarship through an email sent by Dean Edwards to Diplomacy students. I applied because I saw it as both an opportunity to further my education and as a platform to inspire others who share my background. As an immigrant and first-generation college student, one of my biggest challenges has been navigating educational and professional spaces without a blueprint. Seton Hall has provided a strong support system through faculty mentorship, student organizations, and opportunities that helped me build confidence and resilience. These experiences have reminded me that my perspective is not a limitation but a strength.

The Otis Holloway Scholarship not only provides financial support but also increases visibility within the international affairs community. It offers recipients extensive networking opportunities across the country. With this award, Sukaina plans to pursue a career in corporate law, and she also aims to involve herself in pro bono immigration work and global service initiatives.

According to Sukaina, receiving this honor felt like a continuation of her family’s legacy, which selflessly shared everything with their communities even when they had little. She added, "I was deeply humbled and grateful. It was an affirmation that my hard work at Seton Hall and passion for service are making an impact."

Her success reflects not only personal dedication but also the environment fostered by Seton Hall. Through research initiatives, student leadership opportunities, career development and more, the university creates pathways for students to excel.

Sukaina advises students in the School of Diplomacy who want to apply for similar scholarships to never be afraid to take up space where representation is lacking, and rely on faith, resilience and community. She stresses that this kind of scholarship isn't just for personal growth but also to create opportunities for others who come after.

Sukaina expressed her gratitutde to her alma mater: "I would like to thank the Seton Hall community for the encouragement and support I have received so far. I am excited to continue growing here and to contribute to our shared mission of servant leadership and global engagement."

Her story exemplifies the high standards set by the University as well as the Otis Holloway Scholarship's goal of inspiring the next generation of black professional leaders and expanding access to international affairs through service, faith and academic achievements.