ASPSF May 2026 Volunteer of the Month: Jennifer Salo of Craighead County
The Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund (ASPSF) is proud to recognize Jennifer Salo of Craighead County as our May 2026 Volunteer of the Month. Since beginning her volunteer journey in January 2025, Jennifer has quickly made a meaningful impact by supporting single parents as they pursue higher education and build brighter futures.
Jennifer serves as the Coordinator of Competitive Scholarships and Fellowships at Arkansas State University, where her passion for student success naturally aligns with ASPSF’s mission. Her introduction to the organization came years before she officially volunteered through the students she supported.
“I learned about ASPSF several years ago while working with some great students at Arkansas State who were recipients of the scholarship,” Jennifer said. “In particular, one of my advisees, Jamaica Walker, was an ASPSF awardee. I saw her succeed over the years with the scholarship, eventually getting her master’s degree and becoming an employee of the university. And the cool thing is, Jamaica and I are now colleagues working together every day!”
Seeing that transformation firsthand left a lasting impression and ultimately inspired Jennifer to get involved herself.
“I was seeking a fulfilling volunteer opportunity, and not only did the volunteer work align with my interests in higher ed and scholarship funding, but I was really sold on the mission of the program,” she said. “I love how it empowers single parents through a combination of education, financial support, and professional development. And there is such a feeling of community and encouraging and lifting each other up.”
As a volunteer, Jennifer plays an active role in supporting scholarship recipients through interviews and hands-on learning opportunities. She has led productivity workshops and continues to offer practical tools to help students succeed.
“I help with the candidate interviews, and I try to lead a workshop for scholarship recipients each semester,” she said. “I did a productivity techniques workshop during spring and fall 2025, and this month I offered a resume development session, which I’m really excited about. It is fun to volunteer, and for those in my region, Program Manager Carrie Allen can help you get plugged in and find something rewarding to contribute – I highly recommend this opportunity!”
One of Jennifer’s most memorable experiences came from seeing the impact of the program celebrated in real time.
“My favorite ASPSF moment was getting to attend the scholarship awards in Jonesboro in March of last year,” she said. “It was inspiring to see families there together to celebrate the accomplishments of these awesome moms and dads.”
At the core of her service is a strong belief in the potential of every student ASPSF supports.
“I love to volunteer with ASPSF because I believe in the potential of the scholarship recipients to pursue their dreams for the future and achieve success.”
ASPSF is incredibly grateful for volunteers like Jennifer, whose time, talent, and encouragement help create opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. Her commitment not only supports individual students but strengthens families and communities across Arkansas.
Through her work, Jennifer reminds us that when we invest in people, we invest in lasting change.
Thank you, Jennifer, for your dedication to ASPSF and for helping single parents take the next step toward a brighter future.
