UChicago, Northwestern Students Receive Prestigious Marshall Scholarship
In a significant recognition of their academic achievements and leadership qualities, two students from the University of Chicago and one from Northwestern University have been selected as 2026 Marshall scholars. Logan Hanssler, Elijah Jenkins, and Ethan Barnes will each receive a fully funded graduate-level education in almost any subject at top universities across the United Kingdom.
The prestigious scholarship was established in 1953 to honor George C. Marshall, architect of the Marshall Plan that provided American aid for Western Europe after World War II. Each year, the program awards students with exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and a strong potential to strengthen U.S.-UK relations.
Hanssler, a Buffalo Grove native studying molecular engineering and astrophysics, will pursue a master's degree in optics and photonics at Imperial College London and a master's program in physics at Durham University. He plans to use the scholarship to further his research on space-to-ground laser communication, a project he co-founded as a first-year student.
Jenkins, the first CHamoru – an indigenous person from Guam – to become a Marshall scholar, will study global and imperial history at Oxford University, followed by development studies at Cambridge University. His heritage has driven him to research and work on issues around diplomacy, law, and politics in the Pacific.
Barnes, a senior in political science who was also named a Truman scholar earlier this year, hopes to pursue a master's degree in law and criminology at a UK university. He plans to study the British criminal justice system and implement reforms in his community after attending law school as a federal prosecutor.
The three scholars offer words of advice for future applicants: finding a true passion, working towards that passion through projects both in and outside school, and making a plan for how to take advantage of the scholarship opportunity. They emphasize the importance of starting early to create a trajectory throughout their college career and exploring their interests within their institution as well as beyond.
The Marshall Scholarship program has funded over 2,300 students since its inception and received more than 1,000 applicants this year. The prestigious award is seen as a significant recognition of academic excellence and potential for future leaders in the U.S.-UK relationship.
In a significant recognition of their academic achievements and leadership qualities, two students from the University of Chicago and one from Northwestern University have been selected as 2026 Marshall scholars. Logan Hanssler, Elijah Jenkins, and Ethan Barnes will each receive a fully funded graduate-level education in almost any subject at top universities across the United Kingdom.
The prestigious scholarship was established in 1953 to honor George C. Marshall, architect of the Marshall Plan that provided American aid for Western Europe after World War II. Each year, the program awards students with exceptional academic achievements, leadership qualities, and a strong potential to strengthen U.S.-UK relations.
Hanssler, a Buffalo Grove native studying molecular engineering and astrophysics, will pursue a master's degree in optics and photonics at Imperial College London and a master's program in physics at Durham University. He plans to use the scholarship to further his research on space-to-ground laser communication, a project he co-founded as a first-year student.
Jenkins, the first CHamoru – an indigenous person from Guam – to become a Marshall scholar, will study global and imperial history at Oxford University, followed by development studies at Cambridge University. His heritage has driven him to research and work on issues around diplomacy, law, and politics in the Pacific.
Barnes, a senior in political science who was also named a Truman scholar earlier this year, hopes to pursue a master's degree in law and criminology at a UK university. He plans to study the British criminal justice system and implement reforms in his community after attending law school as a federal prosecutor.
The three scholars offer words of advice for future applicants: finding a true passion, working towards that passion through projects both in and outside school, and making a plan for how to take advantage of the scholarship opportunity. They emphasize the importance of starting early to create a trajectory throughout their college career and exploring their interests within their institution as well as beyond.
The Marshall Scholarship program has funded over 2,300 students since its inception and received more than 1,000 applicants this year. The prestigious award is seen as a significant recognition of academic excellence and potential for future leaders in the U.S.-UK relationship.
This is awesome news! I mean, these three students are like total rockstars! Chosen from some of the top universities in the US, to study at UK universities? That's a dream come true for anyone looking to make a difference globally. 
Logan, Elijah, and Ethan are not just lucky winners, they've worked hard to get here, and it's awesome that they're gonna use this scholarship to pursue their passions. 
Space-to-ground laser communication, Pacific diplomacy, and British law reform... these are the kind of projects that can change lives! 
And I love how they're already sharing their advice with future applicants – finding your true passion, making a plan, and starting early. It's not just about getting the scholarship, it's about what you do with it after that. 
I'm so stoked to see these talented students getting the Marshall Scholarship! It's awesome that Logan, Elijah, and Ethan are being recognized for their leadership qualities and academic achievements 
. As a global citizen, it's amazing to see how these scholarships can bridge the gap between the US and UK, fostering greater understanding and cooperation 
. It's clear that these students are not only book-smart but also passionate about creating positive change in their communities 
. And kudos to the Marshall Scholarship program for supporting over 2,300 students since its inception 
! This award is definitely a game-changer for these talented individuals 
.
uchi and northwestern are killing it rn, i mean who wouldn't want to study in london or cambridge on a full ride 
and elijah jenkins' heritage driving his research on pacific diplomacy is such a powerful story 
Shouldn't we be making education more accessible to everyone, regardless of socio-economic background? The fact that these scholarships are fully funded is great, but what about those who need financial aid or scholarships just to cover tuition fees? It's a two-tiered system where the haves and have-nots are left behind 
. We need to rethink our education system to ensure everyone has an equal chance at success 
. Now you got these kids, Logan, Elijah, and Ethan, and they're like the leaders of tomorrow, just thinking about what they wanna achieve in life and making plans to get there 
But let's talk about why they got chosen - was it just about their grades and achievements? Or is there something more at play here? I mean, we all know that the US-UK alliance is a key part of American foreign policy. So, are these students being groomed to be part of the next generation of diplomats or leaders in this relationship? 
The fact that Jenkins' heritage played a role in his selection could also raise some interesting questions about representation and diversity in institutions like Oxford and Cambridge. Are we seeing more Native American voices being amplified through programs like this? 
These Marshall scholars are literally total rockstars! 
Logan, Elijah, and Ethan are about to have their lives changed forever with that scholarship 
. I mean, getting to study at top UK universities on a full ride? It's like a dream come true! 
They're not just smart, they're also passionate about making a difference in the world 
That's some next-level stuff right there. And Elijah's research on global and imperial history is so relevant today. It's awesome to see people like them being recognized for their academic achievements and leadership qualities. The fact that they're all so passionate about their fields is inspiring too. I'm sure they'll make the most of this opportunity and achieve great things! 
. still, gotta respect the kids for chasing their dreams 
. Anywayz, Logan's project on space-to-ground laser communication is so cool! Like, who wouldn't wanna explore the universe with lasers? 
. I'm stoked to see Logan working on space-to-ground laser communication - dude's got talent! And Elijah's passion for Chamorro culture and Pacific diplomacy is super inspiring 
. I'm all about living a mindful life and following your heart, you know? These three scholars are proof that with dedication, hard work, and a clear vision, anything is possible 
.
. And can we talk about how inspiring it is that Elijah's heritage is driving him to research & work on issues around diplomacy, law, and politics in the Pacific 
? He's such an awesome role model for young ppl from underrepresented groups 
!
, and Elijah Jenkins is a total trailblazer for being the first Chamoru Marshall scholar 
. It's cool that they're giving advice to future applicants too - finding your passion and making plans sounds super smart 
- Imperial College London, Durham University, Oxford University, and Cambridge University are top-notch institutions.
. Where's the data to back up that these students are truly exceptional? How can we trust that they're not just a cherry-picked bunch? 