Kate Kuholski-Manchisi, a doctoral student at the University of Delaware and the 2010 recipient of the Marvin S. Gilman/National Housing Endowment Scholarship, is studying energy, equity, the environment and economic issues as they affect housing-related policies at the local and national level. 

As a student in urban affairs and public policy, she is currently analyzing housing and community development policies and the role of just and sustainable development and is evaluating methodologies.

“Thanks to the Gilman scholarship, I am able to meet a variety of experts in my research field, focus on my academics, build up my theoretical and practical knowledge in just and sustainable housing and community public policy, and continue to strengthen my passion for working with families and children to have safer and healthier homes and communities,” Kuholski-Manchisi said.

Named for Marvin Gilman, an economist, developer, home builder and tireless advocate for fair and affordable housing until his death in 1998, the scholarship supports graduate students at the University of Delaware whose commitment to housing research best exemplifies Gilman's dedication to strengthening housing and national housing policy.

The endowment has awarded 17 scholarships to University of Delaware graduate students since the scholarship program was founded by Gilman and his wife Muriel in 1994.

A University of Delaware professor for 20 years, Gilman taught housing finance, housing and land use planning and administrative law. He was appointed by President Jimmy Carter to serve on the board of directors of Fannie Mae, where he served several terms. He also was a steadfast promoter of the endowment.

“The Gilman Scholars come from all walks of life and different parts of the country, but they share Marvin and Muriel Gilman's core belief, that all people should have access to decent and affordable housing in a safe and healthy neighborhood,” said Dr. Steven Peuquet, of the Center for Community Research and Service at the University of Delaware School of Public Policy and Administration.

“As they graduate and pursue their careers, these students are making the world better, just as the Gilmans intended,” Peuquet added.