Denise Taber Finard ’80 Women’s Institute Ambassadors are Russell Sage students who are selected for the program, which is open to all full-time Russell Sage students. Each year, Ambassadors are eligible for a $1,500 scholarship.

Our Ambassadors:

  • Collaborate with the institute’s leadership to develop and deliver Denise Taber Finard ’80 Women’s Institute’s events and programming (three or more events each semester).
  • Assist in student-centered events, from prospective
    student open houses to summer orientation and move-in weekend.
  • Pursue projects they are passionate about that advance women, whether that’s domestic violence prevention, refugee resettlement, or disparities in women’s healthcare, and contribute to the projects of other ambassadors through collaboration.
  • Make academic progress toward the completion of the Women’s Studies minor or complete at least one women’s studies course per year.
  • Make a difference in the community through volunteering
  • Speak at college events as student leaders.

Hear from our Ambassadors

“The Women’s Institute has helped me find growth at Sage, but also within myself. Most of my work has been involved with domestic violence awareness. That was a big part of my personal life during my first years at Sage, so just being able to reach out to the community and other students and helping them in any way to turn my experience into a positive for someone else. One project I did around Valentine’s Day was called “Love Should Be Sweet.” We had resources for different local organizations, flyers with red flags and green flags, and DIY cards to spread self-love. We sold roses and carnations and donated all of our proceeds to Equinox.”

– Lauren Bush ’23, candidate for M.S. in Childhood/Special Education

“Being a Women’s Institute ambassador meant more than I could ever imagine this semester. Being not only a woman but a woman in science, I really got to work on my leadership roles and performing and crafting the way that I interact with my community, especially uplifting and advocating for women within the institute, as well as within the community at Sage.”

– Danielle Williams ’24, Biology

“Being a part of the Women’s Institute at Russell Sage has given me the opportunity to increase my interpersonal and communication skills. I’ve had the opportunity to help organize and plan events and also balance my time with other extra and co-curricular activities.”

– Leah Madore ’25, Psychology

Apply for the Program

Applications are open in the spring of 2025 for the 2025-2026 Ambassadors. To apply, fill out this ambassador application.