All three are Economics majors with GPAs above 3.7 from top universities in Türkiye, united by a shared dream: to make their mark in a discipline that remains male-dominated around the world. Their road to success was clear: to equip themselves by studying at the most prestigious universities in the United States, where they could learn from professors with exceptional knowledge and expertise and take full advantage of the valuable resources these institutions offer. Their success is a powerful testament to what becomes possible when talent meets opportunity. But despite putting everything they had into realizing their dreams, the cost of living and high tuition fees stood as yet another barrier on their path to higher education. That’s when a scholarship fund, established to honor the legacy of a brilliant, courageous, and determined economist, chose to believe in Sıla, Ece, and Nagehan—just like it has believed in many young women before them: the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award.

Established in memory of Sena Eken-Schieber by her husband, Dr. George Schieber, the award honors the values she embodied: kindness, hard work, passion, and bravery to lead in a traditionally male-dominated field. Sena represented a vision of what women can achieve when given the opportunity—and Dr. Schieber chose to carry that vision forward by opening doors for female students pursuing higher education in economics.

Since its founding in 2015, the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award has supported 19 outstanding female students throughout their graduate studies, enabling them to focus on their education without the burden of financial barriers.

“These young women reflect our hope for future sustainable global development, equity, prosperity, and knowledge sharing in our increasingly fragmented, reactionary, and dysfunctional world. I have little doubt that their motivations, social and personal aspirations, and formidable intelligence will fuel their future personal and intellectual growth, and assist them in making much-needed societal contributions globally, as well as in both Turkiye and the United States. In fact, a recent IMF study found that ‘education accounts for fully half of total economic growth and two-thirds of real income gains among the world’s poorest 20 percent since 1980,’ and, surprisingly, that ‘a year of postsecondary education will increase a person’s earnings by more than 13 percent over those of a person with secondary education alone.’ I wish them the best of luck on this challenging journey they have only just begun,” says Dr. George Schieber, Sena’s husband and a retired World Bank economist.

Sıla, an Economics major from Boğaziçi University, will begin her master’s in International and Development Economics at Yale University, where the acceptance rate is just 9%. Grateful for this opportunity, she shares: “This recognition is deeply meaningful to me not only as a student, but also as someone committed to making economics a more inclusive and impactful field. Economics has traditionally been a male-dominated discipline, but that is gradually changing as more women contribute to research and policymaking. The underrepresentation of women in this field makes me even more determined to be part of that change and to encourage others to see that they, too, belong in economics. Receiving the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award brings me one step closer to my goal of using economics as a tool to create a more fair, inclusive, and resilient society. Beyond easing the financial challenges of graduate study, this scholarship strengthens my belief that inclusive, equitable change is possible, and that I can be part of it. It encourages me to dream bigger, work harder, and push the boundaries of what I hope to achieve as an economist—building systems that open doors for many more people, not just a few.”

Ece, a double major in Sociology and Economics at Boğaziçi University, will continue her studies at Duke University, excited to deepen her research on policymaking. “Receiving the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award is a great honor for me and a meaningful encouragement at an important point in my journey. Coming from Turkey and preparing to continue my academic studies at Duke University, it feels special to be recognized by a community that values education, perseverance, and contribution to society. Knowing that my efforts are seen and supported motivates me to work even harder toward my goals. I am truly grateful to Dr. George Schieber, the selection committee, and the Turkish Philanthropy Funds for their trust and support,” says Ece Hasgül.

Nagehan, another Economics major from Boğaziçi University, will continue her journey at Columbia University, hoping to set an example for young women in Türkiye and beyond—that they, too, can break barriers and overcome limitations. “Being selected for the Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award is both an incredible honor and a turning point in my academic journey. This scholarship is not only an investment in my education, but also a meaningful recognition of my goals and commitment to using economics as a tool for change. As I begin my master’s at Columbia University, I’m filled with gratitude and determination. This support strengthens my resolve to work toward a future where economic and social policies truly serve those who have long been left behind. I’m incredibly thankful to Dr. George Schieber, Turkish Philanthropy Funds, and the entire selection committee for believing in my vision,” shares Nagehan Sude Varol.

Senay Ataselim Yilmaz, Executive Director, Turkish Philanthropy Funds notes “At Turkish Philanthropy Funds, we believe that investing in the education of women is one of the most transformative acts we can undertake—for individuals, for communities, and for the world. Sıla, Ece, and Nagehan represent more than academic excellence; they embody the courage to challenge systems, the vision to shape policy, and the drive to lead with purpose. The Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award does more than ease financial barriers—it affirms the belief that these young women belong in every room where decisions are made. Their journeys remind us that when we invest in women, we invest in a more inclusive and hopeful future for all.”

Dr. Seyhan Erden, a Sena Eken-Schieber Scholarship selection committee member, welcomed the 2025 award recipients. “It is an honor to celebrate the extraordinary talent and ambition of women from Türkiye pursuing graduate studies in economics. The Sena Eken-Schieber Economics Award recognizes not just academic excellence, but the courage to lead, question, and inspire. The passion and brilliance of these women constantly inspire me. Their determination to advance knowledge and drive positive change through economics gives me great hope for the future. We are proud to support these future economists who will shape more inclusive, innovative, and equitable societies,” shared Dr. Erden.

From a large and highly competitive pool of applicants, we are thrilled to support the journeys of Sıla, Ece, and Nagehan. While their stories are just beginning, they serve as powerful reminders that when women are empowered through education, they not only transform their own lives but also help shape a brighter world for all. As they step into this next chapter, we’re excited to see what they’ll accomplish next.

About The Sena Eken Schieber Economics Award and Sena Eken Schieber:

The Sena Eken Schieber Economics Award is supported by the Eken Schieber Scholarship Fund at Turkish Philanthropy Funds. The fund was established by Sena’s husband, George Schieber, to celebrate Sena Eken Schieber’s life and continue her legacy as a pioneering international civil servant, Turkish Government official, economist, and role model for many women. Sena was not only a highly competent, hard-working, and successful professional but also a wonderful wife, a caring and dedicated sister, aunt, family member, friend, and mentor. She was known as an inspirational leader who lived life to the fullest. The scholarship supports young women from Turkey from low-income families to pursue graduate degrees in economics in the United States. The Sena Eken Schieber Scholarship program was established in 2015 and, to date, has funded some ten very deserving young Turkish women for master’s degrees and Ph.Ds in accredited U.S. graduate economics programs, including the University of Chicago, Columbia, and Duke University.

About Turkish Philanthropy Funds: Turkish Philanthropy Funds (TPF) is the leading U.S. community foundation for high-impact social investments dedicated to Turkish and Turkish-American communities. Since 2007, TPF has mobilized over $70M and has invested over $38M in grants with partners focused on addressing economic, social, and environmental needs in Turkey and around the world. By providing support to realize the philanthropic vision of individuals, families, and corporations, TPF donors and partners have reached thousands of families and directly funded over 350 projects.

For more updates about the application process for the 2026-27 Award cycle or other philanthropic accounts at TPF, please visit here. 

İrem Bölükbaşı was one of those extraordinary individuals whose smile could light up any room. She was kind, intelligent, and considerate of others, with a contagious energy that left a lasting impact on everyone she met. Originally from Istanbul, İrem studied chemistry at Boğaziçi University, where she excelled as a student, always thinking creatively and focusing on solving problems. A true scientist at heart, she had an insatiable curiosity and a passion for learning and discovery.

Irem’s ground breaking work

It was this spirit that led her to sign up for Italian classes at the Italian Cultural Institute of Istanbul. It was this spirit that led her to sign up for Italian classes at the Italian Cultural Institute of Istanbul. That’s when Irem met with Engin, her husband to be. Their connection was immediate, and they soon embarked on a journey together that took them to the United States. After a summer internship at UMass Amherst’s Polymer Science and Engineering program, İrem was offered a full scholarship to pursue her Ph.D. in the States. Her academic journey was marked by groundbreaking research on polymer synthesis, polymer nanocomposites, and functional particles localized to fluid-fluid interfaces. İrem’s talent and dedication led her to a career at 3M as a Product Development Engineer, where she invented the Scotch-Brite™ Glass Cooktop Pads and Wand, a product many of us use in our homes today. Her work continues to inspire her colleagues and exemplifies her legacy of innovation.

Hard times, positive mindset

In 2013, İrem was diagnosed with cancer. Her strong will and love of life showcased as she went through active cancer treatment and multiple surgeries. During such hard time, both physical and emotional, she did not let cancer define her life. Instead, she saw cancer as a chapter in her life, not the whole story. With a positive mindset as she faced the specific challenges and stages of cancer, İrem thrived and defended her doctoral dissertation successfully right after she completed chemotherapy treatment sessions in the fall of 2014. Six years after her diagnosis, İrem passed away in December 2019. Her loss was deeply felt by her husband, family, and friends, who cherished their memories of her vibrant spirit. In the face of their grief, Engin sought a way to honor İrem’s legacy by creating something that would reflect her kindness and passion for learning – İrem Bölükbaşı Memorial Fund.

TPF honors Irem’s dedication to education 

Driven by the desire to carry on İrem’s values of kindness, generosity, and dedication to education, Engin established the Memorial Fund to ensure that İrem’s legacy would continue to inspire and uplift others. The Fund’s first initiative was to support students at İrem’s beloved Boğaziçi University, providing scholarships to two young minds who, like İrem, are driven to pursue their dreams without the burden of financial barriers. Witnessing the impact of these scholarships, Engin knew İrem’s legacy was meant for more. He established the Irem Bölükbaşı Memorial Fund at TPF to honor Irem’s dedication to education and her passion for nurturing young scientists.

One of the Fund’s major milestones was organizing a symposium in İrem’s honor on

June 14, 2024, the week of her birthday. The symposium brought together a distinguished group of scientists, featuring inspirational lectures and a career panel that celebrated İrem’s contributions to the field. Attendees traveled from across the country from Ohio to California to honor İrem, underscoring the far-reaching impact of her life and legacy. What’s next? Supporting a bright and passionate chemistry student with the chance to expand her studies and explore new horizons through a summer research internship at UMass. İrem’s summer research internship shaped her life and provided her with incredible opportunities to showcase her talents and intelligence.

Memorial Funds are more than a tribute 

The Fund aims to create similar opportunities for others to follow in İrem’s footsteps. İrem’s presence is felt in every young student whose dreams are made possible by the Memorial Fund. Her spirit of generosity and her unwavering commitment to making the world a better place lives on in these future leaders. The İrem Bölükbaşı Memorial Fund is more than a tribute; it is a living embodiment of İrem’s belief that one person’s kindness can create ripples of change that extend far beyond what we can see.

İrem’s family and friends have transformed their grief into a powerful force for good, ensuring that her legacy of kindness, curiosity, and impact will endure. Through this inspiring Memorial Fund, we celebrate a life that continues to light the way for others, proving that the most profound legacy is one that empowers others to reach their fullest potential. In İrem’s name, we are reminded that even in the face of loss, the human spirit has the power to inspire, uplift, and transform lives.

Gamze’s business, MyBeachySide, had offices in Adıyaman, Elâzığ, Adana, and Diyarbakır. Each one was directly affected, making the experience deeply personal for her and her team.

Gamze Ates founded My Beachy Side to merge sustainable, fair trade practices with the rich crochet traditions of Türkiye, championing responsible business practices. Her goal has been to empower women financially through handcrafting the company’s fashion goods.

Only 30% of women work outside homes in Türkiye, and this number goes even lower in Southern Türkiye. Gamze’s vision is to change that not just through employment but also through growth opportunities, leadership workshops, and making sure every woman she works with receives fair wages. She is also committed to sustaining the local economy and preserving the centuries-old textile legacy, primarily sourcing from independently owned producers in the Buldan region.

By using traditional crochet techniques, which are done by hand, they aim to reduce their carbon footprint. But for Gamze, in the middle of it all lies the celebration of tradition and creativity—something the community she has built can take pride in.

Everything she has worked to establish for years crumbled down in a matter of minutes with the earthquakes—her workshops, her community, and her dreams. All four workshops in the region were damaged. The largest devastation was in Adıyaman—55 of the 60 women employed lost their lives. Despite all the challenges in reaching the region, Gamze and her team in Istanbul immediately provided supplies to the survivors.

Yet, she wanted to do more. Using her personal network and the close-knit community of My Beachy Side, she started a campaign with TPF. Her goal was not just immediate relief but to build sustainable, long-term solutions.

She says: “While many organizations were focusing on urgent needs, we wanted our funds to create lasting change. We used part of the funds to set up a women’s center in Bayburt, a region unaffected by the earthquake but susceptible to migration. And we will continue to create opportunities for women to be financially independent.”

Gamze’s dream is to develop sustainable villages in Türkiye, keeping in line with the unique DNA of each region. She envisions a model village where sustainability is the central point, intertwined with rich social and cultural life, exceptional educational facilities, and a focus on the well-being of its residents. She believes this model can prevent migration to larger cities, preserve cultural values, and contribute to the local economy.

Gamze’s personal commitment to the cause is deeply rooted in her upbringing. As the daughter of a military officer, she moved from one town to another across Anatolia as a child. This exposed her to the unique charm of country living, with its rich traditions, agricultural practices, and close-knit communities.

Her family valued community and giving back—not in financial terms, but in solving a problem or lending a hand. From early on in her life, she saw how philanthropic acts can create a domino effect, benefiting society at large.

She says: “The drive to give back isn’t just altruistic; it’s deeply gratifying and creates a sense of fulfillment.”

She works with TPF to take her vision to the next level and breathe life into these model villages she has been envisioning.

Gamze believes the earthquake’s aftermath was a stark reminder of our responsibilities. Through collaborative efforts and a focus on long-term solutions, she hopes to create a positive impact and help communities rebuild stronger than before.

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