Mercer University graduate Antara Singh has been named the School of Business’ 2024 International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP) Westin Scholar.

With the growing need for well-qualified privacy and data protection professionals, the annual Westin Scholar Awards were created by the International Association of Privacy Professionals to support students who are identified as future leaders in the field of privacy and data protection.

Singh was selected by Jordan “Jody” Blanke, Distinguished Professor of Computer Science, to receive the award in recognition of her outstanding performance in Blanke’s course “Legal and Ethical Issues Affecting Big Data.” Singh graduated in December 2023 with a Master of Science in Business Analytics. 

“Antara’s work was exceptional,” Blanke said. “She is an extremely worthy recipient of the award, and I am hopeful that she will continue with her interest in privacy law and policy.”

Singh is the third School of Business student to receive this international award in the past four years. Fred Walker, a Master of Accountancy graduate, was Mercer’s first recipient of this award in the inaugural class of 2021.

“The industry of privacy is fast growing and constantly evolving,” said J. Trevor Hughes, IAPP president and CEO. “We’ve created this award as a way to put the privacy profession at the forefront of students’ minds as they explore potential career opportunities.”

Singh, from Hyderabad, India, earned a Bachelor in Commerce Degree from Osmania University and a Post Graduate Diploma in Public Accounting from Amity University. She worked for Deloitte for several years and earned her CPA certification.

“Coming from a family where education has always been paramount, I've witnessed firsthand the unwavering dedication of my parents towards providing me with the best opportunities,” said Singh. “My family has instilled in me the importance of being independent and self-reliant, values that have propelled me to where I am today.” Singh added that Mercer University was “key in my education, giving me a supportive place to learn and follow my interests.”