Marlene Shepper Cooperman ’63 Memorial Fund

For summer study in France; open to first-years, sophomores, juniors and seniors

Campus Deadline: Apply by March 1

Access the application here. The application includes short answers, a transcript, resume, budget, and two letters of recommendation.

Click here to see a list of past Cooperman Fund Recipients. Visit gooverseas.com and speak with your language faculty for additional ideas for language schools and programs.

Established in 2013 by Barry S. Cooperman and Jacqueline A. Cooperman, this gift will make possible the opportunity for a current student to experience French culture. The purpose of the fund is to provide financial assistance, typically $5,000, for students who are enrolled in a summer language and cultural study program, or are conducting research relating to their studies. Preference will be given to students who have not previously spent time in France. This stipend is to provide for living and study expenses for a summer (8–10 weeks) in France.

The Marlene Shepper Cooperman ’63 Memorial Fund celebrates Marlene’s passion for France and French culture. Her French professors at Vassar and her study abroad were transformative experiences, leading to a lifelong relationship with France. While Marlene won awards for her mastery of the French language and literature, her love of France was far beyond cerebral, extending to how she lived her daily life. Marlene spent some very happy periods living in France with her husband and children. In the United States, Marlene worked with French-speaking immigrants as an immigration attorney and was deeply involved in the Institute for French Culture and Technology at the University of Pennsylvania. Happily for her family and friends, Marlene’s zeal for French culture also influenced her approach to entertaining, and she made countless delicious meals, bringing those she loved a joie de vivre that she first experienced as a 19-year-old study abroad student. Marlene’s family hopes that this award will allow current and future Vassar students to savor time in France as Marlene did.

Please note that the awarding of a fellowship does not automatically mean that you will be granted Vassar credit for the program you attend. You must go through the approval process for the transfer of credits. For more information speak to the department chair in the respective area.