Be the Reason: Meet Anna Durfey
Saint Louis University Doisy College of Health Sciences Student
Anna Durfey became a Billiken because she wanted to earn her bachelor’s degree at a Catholic university with an accredited dietetics program, she said. But like many students, she made her decision with some uncertainty.
“Anyone who’s gone to college knows that finances can be a huge barrier at times,” she said. “While I was excited to choose Saint Louis University, I was concerned that the loans I would have to take out and the tuition I would need to pay would cause significant financial stress.”
To manage costs, Durfey, who is from Rhode Island, balanced tutoring, restaurant work and teaching religious education at St. Francis Xavier College Church. The commitments built her skills but limited the time she could devote to her education, she said.
That’s where donor support came in.
Opening Doors Through Generosity
SLU scholarships create opportunities that develop the skills students need for their futures. Being awarded the Boston Alumni Scholarship, made possible by the generosity of SLU alumni, eased Durfey’s financial concerns, she said.
“Having people who are willing to support students means a lot to me because it enables me to further my education and pursue the career path I'm looking to take,” she said.
This scholarship has had a huge impact on my education. I really appreciate it when people financially invest in students and make college accessible and attainable for all people. I think that's so important.”
Anna Durfey
Navigating fewer financial pressures has allowed Durfey to engage more in her studies and service activities. Through the Micah Program, a service-focused learning community, she worked with the Missionaries of Charity in some of St. Louis’ most underserved neighborhoods.
“I’ve always viewed community service as something I’m doing for others,” Durfey said. “But the Jesuit value of being ‘for and with others’ is also completely beneficial to me in my own growth. And that has been a huge part of my formation at SLU.”
Investing in the Whole Person
Durfey has also served as president of SLU’s Running Club and Dietetic Association, helping to bring students together, hosting guest speakers and expanding opportunities for hands-on learning and career exploration, she said.
“SLU has prepared me for my future in many different ways,” she said. “The strength of the program and the experiences I’ve had are really going to set me up well for my career.”
She hopes donors understand the lasting influence of their generosity.
“To those who give, thank you so much,” Durfey said. “This scholarship has had a huge impact on my education. I really appreciate it when people financially invest in students and make college accessible and attainable for all people. I think that's so important.”