New York, NY — The Ukrainian National Women’s League of America (UNWLA) proudly announces that Nazar Kalyniuk, a Master of Engineering student in Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, has been named a finalist for the 2025 UNWLA Vovk Foundation Scholarship.

IMG_2172.png

Kalyniouk’s academic focus on Computer Architecture and Circuit Design reflects hisdeep commitment to harnessing technology for Ukraine’s reconstruction and long-term security. In his scholarship application, he emphasized the transformative role of engineering innovations developed during the war — such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), electronic warfare, and secure communication systems — and his aspiration to translate them into reliable, locally produced technologies for Ukraine’s defense and recovery.

“By localizing the design and production of defense technologies, we can reduce Ukraine’s dependence on foreign suppliers and build a more autonomous defense industry,”Kalyniouk wrote. “I want to be part of a new generation of Ukrainian engineers who not only help rebuild the country’s infrastructure, but also contribute to a technologically advanced and self-reliant national defense sector.”

Beyond his academic achievements, Kalyniuk is deeply engaged in the Ukrainian diaspora community. As an active member of the American Ukrainian Youth Association (CYM) and a volunteer at church-sponsored Ukrainian festivals, he helps educate youth about Ukrainian traditions and fosters cultural pride among younger generations.

He believes that the global Ukrainian diaspora plays a vital role in preserving cultural identity and supporting Ukraine’s sovereignty. “Staying connected to my roots while using my skills to uplift others,” he said, “is how I will continue to honor my heritage and serve my community.”

The UNWLA Vovk Foundation Scholarship supports outstanding Ukrainian students
pursuing higher education in the United States who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and a strong commitment to contributing to Ukraine’s future. Through this program, UNWLA continues its nearly 100-year mission of empowering Ukrainian women and youth through education, cultural preservation, and civic engagement.

About the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America (UNWLA)
Founded in 1925, the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America is the longest
continuously operating Ukrainian women’s organization in the United States. Guided by the motto “Unity, Awareness, and Service,” UNWLA promotes Ukrainian heritage, supports humanitarian initiatives, and advances education, culture, and advocacy for Ukraine and itspeople.

About the Vovk Foundation Scholarship
Established through the generosity of the Vovk Family, the UNWLA Vovk Foundation
Scholarship provides financial assistance to students of Ukrainian descent pursuing
academic excellence and community leadership in the United States. The scholarship
supports young scholars dedicated to strengthening Ukraine through knowledge,
innovation, and cultural continuity.