The Miles of Hope Breast Cancer Foundation today announced the 2021 scholarship recipients from a competitive pool of high school seniors and college students.
Miles of Hope, with a mission to fund support services, education and outreach for people affected by breast cancer within the 9 counties of the Hudson Valley, awards scholarships annually to students whose lives have been touched and changed by their connection to breast cancer.
"Every year, we are overwhelmed and impressed with the pool of candidates for our scholarships," explained Miles of Hope Executive Director, Pari Forood.
"This year, with a pandemic affecting everyone's ability to go to class, perform extracurricular activities and volunteer for cancer-related charities, the candidates really impressed us with their ability to make a difference in their families and social circles. Young people are amazingly resilient and creative," she added.
The 'named scholarships' at Miles of Hope were created by family members and dedicated Miles of Hope donors to honor and remember people affected by breast cancer.
The Betty Benecke Scholarship went to Savannah College of Art and Design student and Poughkeepsie resident, Taylor Petrone.
The Betty Howard Scholarship went to John Jay Senior High School senior Isabelle Demelo.
The Paulette Pettorossi Scholarship went to Beacon High School senior Warren Banks.
The Dana Effron Scholarship went to SUNY Stonybrook student and Hopewell Junction resident, April Griggs.
The Adele Bayer Scholarship went to Poughkeepsie Day School senior, Lucy Chant.
Miles of Hope Scholarships were awarded to:
Warren Banks - Beacon High School
Jenna Tatavitto - Arlington High School
Lauren Piasecki - John Jay Senior High School
Kiersten DeNunzio - Arlington High School
Alyssa Harris - Arlington High School
Grace Cox - John Jay Senior High School
"In total, over $30,000 was awarded this year to students to help defray costs at college. These young people demonstrated strength of will and determination, kindness and compassion, and great academic skill," Ms. Forood added.
"We wish them all the best of luck!"