Our Work

From an early age, Aaliyah Veloz ’26 knew she wanted to help others. What began as a childhood dream of becoming a doctor has evolved into a passion for neuroscience, research, and community service all fueled by her curiosity and drive to make a meaningful impact.

Aaliyah’s path has been shaped by her strong family values and her supportive experience with the staff at Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, MA. She remembers vividly the day her family received the Catholic Schools Foundation (CSF) scholarship letter in eighth grade.

“It was such a relief,” she said. “Tuition was too high for my family at the time, and that scholarship lifted a huge weight off our shoulders. It gave me the chance to focus on my education and future without worry.”

That opportunity not only gave her access to a strong academic foundation but also opened doors to programs like the Tufts University Summer Scholars Program, where she first experienced life on a college campus and built lifelong friendships.

This past summer, Aaliyah participated in the Broad Summer Scholars Program (BSSP) at the prestigious Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard in Cambridge, Massachusetts. The six-week program brings together highly motivated high school students to conduct original, cutting-edge research in fields such as cancer biology, biotechnology, and genomics.

For her project, Aaliyah conducted a comparative analysis of three quality control instruments essential to single-cell sequencing — an experience that expanded her understanding of genetics and sparked an unexpected new interest in biotechnology.

“This program allowed me to deepen my understanding of genetic research and explore new possibilities in science,” Aaliyah said. “It also showed me how much collaboration, communication, and mentorship matter in research.”

Aaliyah’s work at the Broad Institute also connected her with peers from diverse scientific backgrounds, mentors in the field, and admissions representatives from top universities. She credits her acceptance into the program to her authenticity and her essays, which shared her enthusiasm for science and her ability to overcome challenges.

“I’m incredibly grateful for this experience,” she shared. “It brought me together with ambitious, supportive friends and mentors who inspire me every day.”

Read more about her project here. 

At Central, Aaliyah is deeply involved in school life and leadership. She serves as Vice President of Student Council, President of both the National Honor Society and Neuroscience Club, and an Executive Board Member of the Student Alumni Association. She’s also active in Campus Ministry, the Art Club, and serves as a Student Ambassador — welcoming new students and leading tours on campus.

Her goal is to leave Central even better than she found it.

“I want to build a culture where students feel supported, engaged, and excited to learn,” she said. “Whether it’s in student council or neuroscience club, I want to make sure others know about the opportunities out there and feel empowered to pursue them.”

Beyond the classroom, Aaliyah is a captain of the Greater Lawrence Rowing Team and a sailing instructor at the Abe Bashara Boathouse — experiences that have taught her teamwork, discipline, and leadership on and off the water.

Having attended Catholic schools since childhood, Aaliyah says her faith has been an anchor in her journey.

“Catholic education has taught me about community and compassion,” she reflected. “I’ve grown so much in my faith and I’ve seen God working behind the scenes — guiding me toward the people and opportunities that help me grow.”

Looking Ahead

As she looks toward college, Aaliyah plans to study neuroscience or biomedical engineering — fields that combine her curiosity about the human brain with her desire to innovate and improve lives.

“I want to use science to make a tangible impact,” she said. “My goal has always been to help others, and I know there are so many ways to do that — whether through medicine, research, or engineering.”

For Aaliyah, the Catholic Schools Foundation has been more than just financial support — it’s been a source of empowerment, connection, and hope.

“This scholarship means everything,” she said. “It’s allowed me to grow, explore, and find my path. I wouldn’t be where I am today without it.”

Want to help create more stories like Aaliyah?
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