Anders Barretta ’25, a double major in geography and political science, is the first-ever recipient of the Marshall E. Bowen Scholarship, established by Susan Liebenow ’71 for the distinguished professor emeritus, who passed away in 2020. Photo courtesy of Anders Barretta.
When University of Mary Washington senior Anders Barretta was a child, he was fascinated by the maps his father kept around the house.
“He told me that his favorite geography professor, Marshall Bowen, taught some of the most influential classes he took in college,” Barretta said. His father, John Barretta ’90, said students would sit on the floor of Monroe Hall just to hear the late professor speak. “Dr. Bowen inspired my dad’s 30-year career as a geospatial intelligence officer.”
That made it even more special when the younger Barretta, who is double majoring in geography and political science and earning a geographic information systems (GIS) certificate, learned he would be the first-ever recipient of the Marshall E. Bowen Scholarship at UMW. Barretta has traveled to professional conferences, engaged in timely research and competed twice in Virginia’s World Geography Bowl, helping UMW’s team beat the buzzer to become the 2022 champions – all of which helped him earn the prestigious geography award.
“Anders truly embodies my husband’s interest in geography, and his curiosity about the places around him is incredibly refreshing,” said Professor of Geography Dawn Bowen, who serves as Barretta’s advisor. She invited him last year to participate in a small group discussion for other students. “He embraced the idea of learning something new and engaging with others.” Read more.