Ellie Patronas, a senior at the University of St. Thomas, is a semifinalist for the 2024 Fulbright U.S. Student Program. This program is an educational exchange initiative that supports students’ academic pursuits internationally. Patronas is studying business law and compliance, with minors in American culture & difference and art history. She plans to study urban art in Greece if she wins the Fulbright grant.
During her sophomore year, Patronas joined the Urban Art Mapping project at St. Thomas. This project documents and maps graffiti worldwide, with a focus on politically and socially relevant street art. Patronas’ involvement in this project has improved her research skills and knowledge of street art.
Dr. Heather Shirey, a faculty leader of Urban Art Mapping, commended Patronas for her curiosity and collaborative skills. She believes Patronas is a strong candidate for a Fulbright research project. Patronas’ work with Urban Art Mapping and her research on social justice street art in the U.S. motivated her to apply for the Fulbright grant.