Student & Family Stories | The Catholic Schools Foundation

Celebrating Harrison Scholarship Recipient Yasmin Saroufim ’26

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

For Yasmin Saroufim, Malden Catholic Class of 2026, leadership has been built one opening statement, one practice session, and one act of encouragement at a time.

A Harrison Scholarship recipient and graduate of Malden Catholic, Yasmin will attend Trinity College this fall. She leaves MC with a remarkable legacy of excellence, dedication, and leadership, especially through Malden Catholic’s Mock Trial program, where she became one of the most accomplished and beloved members in the program’s history.

Yasmin’s four-year Mock Trial career was defined by preparation, persistence, and a determined approach to achieving success. She made an immediate impact as a freshman starter, a rare opportunity in the program. In her first year, she became the first freshman in Malden Catholic Mock Trial history to earn a perfect score on an opening statement in a state quarterfinal at the Moakley Federal Courthouse in Boston.

From that moment on, Yasmin continued to grow as a competitor and as a leader. No trial moment was too big for her. In fact, her coaches noted that she often brought her best work to the highest-stakes moments, challenging herself and her teammates to elevate their performance every day.

By senior year, Yasmin had earned the role of captain. Across preliminary and playoff trials, she delivered a team-record 11 opening statements that scored a perfect “10” — a feat her coaches described as one not likely to be seen again.

At the Senior Girls Awards Ceremony, Yasmin received the Brother Tim Hoey Leadership Award, named in honor of Malden Catholic’s beloved Mock Trial coach and program founder. The award is presented annually to the Mock Trial member who makes the greatest contribution to the leadership of the organization, demonstrating superior trial performance, total commitment to team activities, and natural leadership in strengthening team morale and camaraderie.

For Yasmin, that description was a perfect fit. Her coaches praised not only her outstanding trial performance, but also the way she helped preserve what they described as the most important reputation associated with MC Mock Trial: family.

“Preparation, persistence, and a dogged approach to achieving success have defined Yasmin’s four-year career in mock trial,” shared Robert Gregory, one of Yasmin’s mentors at Malden Catholic. “Even more than her stunning performances, however, I was impressed by the kind of teammate Yasmin became for her peers.”

That balance of excellence and care is what made Yasmin’s leadership so meaningful. She was respected for her talent, discipline, and competitive drive, but loved for the way she brought people together. Through long practices, high-pressure competitions, and countless trial prep sessions, Yasmin helped create a team culture rooted in friendship, trust, humor, and joy.

“She found the moments of humor and silliness, and bonded with her teammates over countless trial prep sessions at Starbucks,” Gregory shared. “Her teammates had always respected her, but it is clear now looking back that they truly loved her.”

Yasmin’s success in Mock Trial reflects the qualities that have shaped her entire high school experience: commitment, courage, preparation, and a willingness to give her full heart to the communities she is part of. As a senior captain, she led not only by example, but by helping others believe in what they could accomplish.

Her leadership was recognized with tremendous pride and admiration by the Mock Trial coaches and attorneys, who described her as “a senior captain who will never be forgotten in the history of MC Mock Trial.”

As a Harrison Scholarship recipient, Yasmin’s story reflects the power of opportunity and the lasting impact of Catholic education. At Malden Catholic, she found a community where her gifts could grow and where she could use those gifts to strengthen others.

This fall, Yasmin will bring that same drive, confidence, and sense of purpose to Trinity College. She leaves Malden Catholic with an extraordinary record of achievement, but even more importantly, with a legacy of leadership that will continue to inspire the teammates, classmates, and teachers who watched her grow.

Yasmin’s head was always fully in the game. By the end of her Malden Catholic journey, it was clear that her heart was, too.

Celebrating Harrison Scholarship Recipient Angelia Cao ’26

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

For Angelia Cao, Cristo Rey Boston Class of 2026, leadership has always been rooted in the example of others.

As the youngest child in a first-generation Vietnamese immigrant family, Angelia grew up learning from her two older siblings. She describes herself as a blend of her older sister’s academic drive and her brother’s humor and personality.

“They created the path for me,” she said. “I learned from their experiences.”

Now, Angelia hopes to create that same kind of path for others.

A graduate of Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy, where she was a Catholic Schools Foundation scholar, Angelia first learned about Cristo Rey Boston while considering her next step for high school. At first, she was not sure whether CRB would be the right fit. Part of her wanted a different experience, but when she visited the school in person, something changed.

“I felt comfortable right away,” she said. “Everything felt natural.”

That sense of belonging, along with Cristo Rey Boston’s balance of freedom and structure, convinced Angelia to enroll. Over the next four years, CRB became a place where she discovered her voice, built her confidence, explored future career paths, and grew into a leader.

Through Cristo Rey Boston’s Corporate Work Study Program, Angelia gained exposure to a wide range of professional environments. As a ninth grader at Public Consulting Group, she learned about the challenges schools face and how consulting groups help develop solutions. At the Broad Institute, she conducted lab research, gaining technical skills and exposure to the world of scientific discovery. At MathWorks, she worked in a collaborative environment where she learned coding and contributed to artificial intelligence projects.

Each placement helped Angelia strengthen her professionalism, communication skills, and confidence. This year, as a project manager assistant at the Massachusetts League of Community Health Centers, she is learning how organizations operate and how grants support small clinics. The experience has expanded her interest in healthcare and mental health and helped her imagine a future centered on supporting others.

Angelia’s growth at Cristo Rey Boston has also been deeply personal. Once shy, she now speaks confidently in class and builds strong relationships with her teachers. She credits CRB’s faculty with creating an academic environment where she felt engaged, encouraged, and empowered to share her ideas.

Along the way, Angelia found mentors and a supportive community of adults who challenged her to be her best self. That support helped her grow from someone who looked to others for guidance into someone others now look up to.

Her leadership extends well beyond the classroom. As a Student Ambassador at Cristo Rey Boston, Angelia welcomed prospective students and helped them feel the same comfort and belonging she felt during her own first visit to the school.

Outside of school, Angelia serves as a youth leader at Saint Ambrose Catholic Church in Dorchester and performs traditional Vietnamese fan dancing at community events. Through these commitments, she connects her culture, faith, and passion for mentorship.

“Community is such an important part of life,” she said. “It’s easy for it to fade if you don’t put in the effort.”

This fall, Angelia will attend the College of the Holy Cross, where she was accepted through Early Decision and selected for the Passport Program for first-generation students. She hopes to pursue a field such as healthcare, psychology, or education, areas that reflect her desire to support young people and serve her community.

As a Harrison Scholarship recipient, Angelia’s story reflects the power of Catholic education, opportunity, and mentorship. From Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy to Cristo Rey Boston, she has embraced each step of her journey with gratitude, determination, and a commitment to helping others.

At Cristo Rey Boston, Angelia has grown from someone shaped by example into someone who now sets an example for others. Through her confidence, compassion, and care for her community, she is becoming the kind of leader she once admired, and the kind of leader who will continue making a difference long after graduation.

Celebrating Harrison Scholarship Recipient Briana Li ’26

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

For Briana, Catholic education has always felt like home.

A graduate of Quincy Catholic Academy, where she attended from kindergarten through eighth grade, Briana now returns each summer to work at the school’s summer camp. It is a full-circle experience for a student whose Catholic school journey has shaped her values, strengthened her confidence, and helped prepare her for her next chapter at Northeastern University.

This fall, Briana will begin her studies at Northeastern, where she plans to major in finance while pursuing a pre-law track. She is also considering political science as a minor or second major. Her long-term goal is to attend law school and use her voice to advocate for others.

“With the way the world is right now, I feel like it could use my voice,” Briana said. “I want to hopefully give a better future for future generations.”

Briana’s journey to high school began with both excitement and uncertainty. Ursuline Academy was one of her top choices, but the cost initially felt out of reach for her family. Then, after her mother reached out to the school to ask about financial aid, they learned there was additional support available through the Catholic Schools Foundation.

“I remember it just being a really great day for my family because we realized that we would be able to afford Ursuline, and I would be able to go,” Briana said.

That opportunity changed the course of her high school experience.

At Ursuline, Briana found a community defined by small class sizes, supportive teachers, and the kind of close-knit environment she had hoped for. Her graduating class included just 68 students, creating a strong sense of connection among classmates.

“They always call it a sisterhood, but it actually does feel like a sisterhood to me,” she said. “Everyone’s just there for each other and there to help each other.”

As she prepares for college, that sisterhood is what Briana says she will miss most.

“It’s such a unique experience,” she said. “A class of 68 girls who all know each other so well, I think the sisterhood is really what I’m going to miss most.”

Briana is also proud of the courage it took to enter a new environment. Coming from a small middle school, she arrived at Ursuline not knowing anyone. While the transition was intimidating, it pushed her to grow.

“I wanted to go because I knew it would be better for myself academically and more challenging,” she said. “But it was really scary just going there and not knowing anyone. Being in a completely new environment forced me to open up to more people and put myself out there more.”

Throughout high school, Briana challenged herself academically. She took AP European History and AP Computer Science as a sophomore; AP English Language and Composition, AP U.S. History, and AP Chemistry as a junior; and AP Art History, AP Physics 1, and AP Calculus BC as a senior.

AP Chemistry was especially difficult, she said, but with the support of teachers and tutors, she learned how to work through the challenge.

“I was so used to things just clicking,” she said. “But at some point, school becomes more than memorization. It’s learning it and being able to apply it.”

Briana also found ways to stay connected to her culture while attending a school where she sometimes felt like one of the only Asian students in her grade. She volunteered with Quincy Asian Resources, an experience that helped her connect with Asian peers and maintain an important part of her identity.

“I’m proud that I was able to keep and maintain my culture,” she said.

Her Catholic education also deepened her understanding of service, ethics, and advocacy. One of her most memorable classes was Morality and Justice, where students discussed social ethics, corruption, and how to advocate for others.

“I felt so privileged to go to a Catholic elementary and high school because I was able to receive this great education while also learning morals and the story of Christ,” she said. “In a Catholic school, it’s such a privilege to be able to learn things like morality and ethics and God’s word.”

Briana’s interest in finance grew from her curiosity about business and the many paths it can offer. Through a shadow day at Boston Consulting Group, she met an Ursuline alumna who had built a career that included project management and asset management. Briana was drawn to the flexibility and possibility within the business world.

“I liked that freedom of getting to choose what you want to do,” she said.

At Northeastern, Briana is excited to meet students from diverse backgrounds, take classes connected to her major, and explore the university’s co-op program. She is especially interested in the possibility of completing a co-op in China.

Her parents immigrated to the United States, and while her grandparents speak Chinese, Briana did not grow up learning the language. She hopes to take Chinese classes in college so she can better communicate with them and connect more deeply with her heritage.

“I’m really excited,” she said. “I want to learn the language and become more accommodated with it.”

Outside the classroom, Briana loves dance, which she has practiced since she was about five years old. She dances competitively and also enjoys spending time with friends, shopping, going to the beach, and working during the summer to save money for college.

Receiving the Harrison Scholarship was another defining moment in Briana’s journey. She remembers feeling nervous during the interview process after seeing how many other highly qualified students were also being considered.

“At first, I was just like, ‘I probably won’t get it,’” she said. “There were so many potential candidates.”

Two weeks later, she received the email that she had been selected.

“I was just so shocked,” she said. “And I was really happy.”

For Briana and her family, the Harrison Scholarship provided meaningful financial relief. Just as importantly, it affirmed her sense of purpose.

“It showed that my voice was important to people,” she said.

When asked what she would say to other students receiving support through the Catholic Schools Foundation, Briana said the scholarship is a sign that someone believes in them.

“To me, that scholarship meant the world,” she said. “It meant that someone believed in me and someone believed that I would be able to achieve a successful future despite my financial situation.”

And to the donors who make these scholarships possible, Briana expressed deep gratitude.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity I’ve been given,” she said. “The fact that someone has faith in me just means so much to me.”

She also sees the impact of scholarship support extending far beyond one student.

“Their donations don’t just help me,” she said. “They help so many people. The people getting the scholarships are going to be future doctors, lawyers, social workers, honestly, anything. They’re able to fund people’s futures and invest in goodness.”

As Briana looks ahead to Northeastern and all that comes next, she carries with her the lessons of her Catholic education, the support of her family and school community, and the confidence that others believe in her potential.

“The Catholic Schools Foundation has been monumental toward my trajectory,” she said. “I wouldn’t have been able to attend Ursuline without it. It’s really boosted me up and helped me.”

Now, Briana is ready to take the next step with gratitude, determination, and a clear hope for the future.

“I’m looking forward to building a better future for everyone,” she said.

Celebrating Harrison Scholarship Recipient Aaliyah Veloz ’26

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

For Aaliyah Veloz ’26, a Catholic Schools Foundation scholarship opened the door to opportunity, and she has made the most of every step of her journey.

A graduating senior at Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, Aaliyah has distinguished herself as a scholar, leader, researcher, athlete, and person of deep faith. This fall, she will continue her academic journey at Dartmouth College, where she plans to study neuroscience or biomedical engineering and pursue her passion for using science to improve lives.

Aaliyah’s path has been marked by extraordinary achievement. She graduated from Central Catholic with a 4.8 GPA on a 5.0 scale and completed 11 Advanced Placement courses during her high school career. She was also one of only 10 students in the Class of 2026 to earn the AP Capstone Diploma in addition to her Central Catholic diploma. The distinction recognizes students who complete a rigorous program of project-based research, a capstone project and presentation evaluated by Central Catholic faculty and the College Board, and demonstrate high-level competency across multiple AP courses.

At commencement-related celebrations, Aaliyah’s leadership and character were on full display. She delivered the Student Reflection at the Baccalaureate Mass before nearly 2,000 classmates, faculty members, Board of Directors members, families, and guests gathered in the Central Catholic Memorial Gymnasium. Standing at the podium, Aaliyah offered words that reflected the faith, gratitude, and purpose that have guided her throughout her time at Central Catholic.

She was also recognized with several notable school honors, including the National Honor Society Award, the Neuroscience Club Award, the Student Admissions Ambassador Award, the Legion of Honor Award, and the Student Alumni Ambassador Award. The Neuroscience Club Award held special meaning, as Aaliyah founded the club two years ago to help create opportunities for students to explore the brain, science, and research in a collaborative setting.

From an early age, Aaliyah 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 journey was shaped by her family values and her experience at Central Catholic. She vividly remembers the day her family received the Catholic Schools Foundation scholarship letter when she was 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 gave Aaliyah access to a strong academic foundation and opened doors to formative experiences beyond the classroom. Through the Tufts University Summer Scholars Program, she first experienced life on a college campus and built lasting friendships. More recently, she participated in the Broad Summer Scholars Program at the 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 deepened her understanding of genetics and sparked a 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.”

The Broad Institute experience connected Aaliyah 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 the essays she wrote about 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.”

At Central Catholic, Aaliyah has been deeply involved in school life and leadership. She served 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 was also active in Campus Ministry and the Art Club, and served as a Student Ambassador, welcoming new students and leading tours on campus.

Her goal has always been to leave Central Catholic 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 was a captain of the Greater Lawrence Rowing Team and a sailing instructor at the Abe Bashara Boathouse — experiences that 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 throughout 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.”

As she prepares to join the Dartmouth College Class of 2030, Aaliyah carries with her the lessons, relationships, and values that have shaped her Central Catholic experience. She hopes to use neuroscience, biomedical engineering, or research as a path to serve others and make a tangible impact.

“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 financial support. It has 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.”

As the Catholic Schools Foundation celebrates Aaliyah Veloz ’26 and all she has accomplished, her story stands as a powerful reminder of what becomes possible when talent, faith, hard work, and opportunity come together.

From Gala Stage to Valedictorian: How Your Support Fueled Jada's Journey to Princeton

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

At our recent Building Minds Scholarship Fund Gala, many of you were moved to tears by Jada Nguyen. On that stage, she shared her story as the daughter of a hardworking Vietnamese immigrant nail technician, explaining how your generosity turned her family's sacrifices into a pathway toward academic excellence.

Today, we are overjoyed to bring you the next chapter of her journey. Jada has officially graduated as the Class of 2026 Valedictorian of Cristo Rey Boston High School!

This spring, Jada stood before her classmates at the St. Teresa of Calcutta Church in Dorchester to deliver the valedictory address. Your belief in our mission gave Jada the stability to thrive, excel in corporate work-study internships, and confidently secure a full QuestBridge scholarship to Princeton University this fall. (And in another incredible milestone for her family, Jada's twin sister is heading to Harvard University!)

Because you could not in the pews to witness this unforgettable milestone, we want to share the full text of Jada’s address with you below. Her words are a direct reflection of the resilience, joy, and community leadership that your gifts unlock every day.

Jada Nguyen’s Valedictory Address

Welcome. My name is Jada Nguyen and I am honored to speak for my class today.

Thank you to the parents, guests, CRB faculty members, Mrs. Powers, Dr. Ryan, and my classmates for being here. A huge thanks to St. Teresa for hosting this moment.

To my family, thank you mẹ, ba, Jasmine, Jaxon, Fiona, Aunt Phuong and Aunt Yen for supporting me. I love you all and I am so grateful for your support.

When I first walked through the doors of CRB, immediately I noticed the strength of the community. The connection of a wide range of cultures, passions, and experiences fueled the relationships between staff, faculty, and students.

Community Day during Thanksgiving stuck with me. I enjoyed watching Dr. Ali and Mr. Singh competing against my classmates in ping-pong. It was beautiful to witness the joyful conversations students, friends, and teachers had as they talked about sports, music, and hobbies. My favorite part about Community Day was eating with my classmates. I enjoyed the closeness in being present with each other as we made jokes and talked about our future aspirations. If I was a guest on Family Feud and Steve Harvey asked me for a person who could make others laugh uncontrollably, Quismairy would be the correct answer[GA1.1]. Familial bonds are truly present in the CRB community.

During my time here, every CRB event was created with a shared common goal: bringing the community together. The support I got from my teachers throughout my high school career taught me the importance of doing something that makes me happy. I’ve witnessed this from Ms. Scharmann’s enthusiasm in teaching literary analysis to Mr. Golden giving me a long tangent about the athletic history of colleges with no relevance whatsoever. Though, by the end of our small-talk, I would leave with a smile on my face.

As I stand here today, I am reminded of the countless memories I share with each and every of you–memories that mark the growth we’ve experienced and offer lessons to live by.

Two weeks ago, we participated in the Senior Walk-Out Parade. This event marked the end to the academic year for us seniors as we proudly wore shirts from the colleges we will be attending next year.

My fellow classmates and I walked out the doors of Cristo Rey Boston with excitement and curiosity for our future, a future where we are the next generation of leaders in this world.

Some of you will go on to horizons that feel unfamiliar yet intriguing. Others may explore new ambitions or cultures. But no matter where you go next, each of us will be given a chance to develop into our own unique selves.

I want you to think of a time when you felt like giving up, when everything seemed impossible to accomplish and you felt lost.

Although you may have struggled in that moment, you are present here today. Today marks a day that celebrates you for your resilience throughout the past four years. There is beauty in our achievements and struggles. The actions we took to combat our challenges reveal our dedication to our hopes and dreams. Hopes and dreams that are pivotal to our success as we live out our lives.

From this point on, challenges are inevitable. But you are capable of persevering through those unforeseen obstacles.[GA2.1] Not only can you do the things you love, but you can grow into a person who is shaped by everything you’ve accomplished.

You are here today, and you deserve to be here. It’s human to experience hardship, but no matter where you are at, you will always have the determination to succeed. And that will always be true, take that with you as you go on to pursue your dreams.

Thank you.

The Power of Your Investment

Jada’s journey to the Ivy League began in the fourth grade with a Catholic Schools Foundation scholarship. Because of you, she was able to attend school free from the crushing weight of financial anxiety. Your support gave her the freedom to master complex cancer-screening research at the Broad Institute, serve as Student Council Vice President, and grow into the visionary leader she is today.

When you invest in our students, you are not just funding a scholarship. You are creating valedictorians, future doctors, and global changemakers. As Jada recently shared with us:

"Knowing that a community of people I have never met believed in me and invested in my potential means more than words can express... Their support didn’t just help pay tuition—it gave me the freedom to focus on learning, explore opportunities I never imagined, and grow into the person I am today."

Thank you for being the foundation beneath Jada's wings, and for continuing to make the dreams of the Class of 2026 possible.

Help Create the Next Success Story

Jada's journey proves that when we remove financial barriers, there is no limit to what our students can achieve. You can help open these same doors for the next generation of leaders by making a gift today.

👉 Donate Now to Support Future Scholars

Celebrating the CSF Class of 2026: 100% Graduation, Exceptional Scholarship Success, and Next Steps

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

The CSF Class of 2026 is graduating with extraordinary momentum. This year, 195 seniors reached the finish line together, achieving a 100% graduation rate. Even more inspiring, this year, 96.4% of CSF's Senior Scholars will matriculate to college, the US military, or trade school in the fall!

These outcomes reflect the hard work, resilience, and ambition of CSF Scholars, as well as the life-changing impact of donor support. Because of donors, students have had access to the academic support, mentorship, guidance, and encouragement needed to pursue their next steps with confidence.

This year’s seniors also reported an impressive $2,683,372 in college scholarship awards, helping make higher education more affordable and attainable for families across the CSF community.

Bridge the Gap: Help 4,300 Students Before June 30

This year, the Catholic Schools Foundation awarded more than $18 million in scholarships to 4,300 students across Greater Boston.

Because of generous supporters like you, thousands of students are able to access a life-changing Catholic education. Today, one in eight Catholic school students in Greater Boston receives support from CSF.

But as June 30 quickly approaches, we are facing a significant gap between the resources available and the growing need from families seeking scholarship assistance for the year ahead.

We need your help to close that gap before the fiscal year ends.

Please make your final year-end gift to CSF today to help ensure that students who are counting on scholarship support can continue their education without interruption. Your support directly helps a student who is counting on scholarship assistance to stay in school.

Make Your Final Year-End Gift to CSF by June 30!

CSF's Class of 2026 Brightest Stars

Click here to read Jada Valedictorian speech at Cristo Ray Boston High School's Graduation Ceremony.

2026 Harrison Scholarship Recipients

The Harrison Scholarship aims to make college affordable to students who receive Catholic Schools Foundation (CSF) scholarship support and help these students reach their full potential. The program is funded by an anonymous donor and administered by TPI.

Take A Look At Some Of The Colleges Our Seniors Will Be Attending In The Fall!

Members of the Class of 2026 will attend a wide range of colleges and universities. The top destinations include:

Princeton University, Yale University, Dartmouth College, Wellesley College, Boston College, Boston University, Northeastern University, College of the Holy Cross, Brandeis University, UMass Amherst, Merrimack College, Framingham State University, Regis College, UMass Boston, Wentworth Institute of Technology, and Providence College.

These destinations reflect the academic strength, persistence, and ambition of CSF Scholars. They also show the power of donor support in helping students access transformational educational opportunities at some of the nation’s most selective and respected institutions.

Full List of Colleges and Post-Secondary Destinations

CSF seniors reported plans to attend the following colleges, universities, and post-secondary programs. Some seniors are also pursuing military service, trade pathways, or finalizing their fall plans, demonstrating the many forms of success and opportunity represented across the Class of 2026.

Alabama State University
Assumption University
Bentley University
Boston College
Boston College, Messina College
Boston University
Brandeis University
Bridgewater State University
Bridgton Academy
Bryant University
Bunker Hill Community College
Catherine Hinds Institute of Esthetics
Clemson University
College of the Holy Cross
Dartmouth College
Emmanuel College
Endicott College
Fisher College
Fitchburg State University
Flagler College
Florida Atlantic University
Framingham State University
Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology
Gordon College
Hampton University
Howard University
Johnson & Wales University
Kean University
Kenyon College
Lincoln Technical Institute
Lynn University
Massachusetts Bay Community College
Massachusetts College of Art and Design
Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
Massachusetts Maritime Academy
Merrimack College
Miami University, Ohio
Michigan State University
Monroe University
Morgan State University
Northeastern University
Northern Essex Community College
Norwich University
North Shore Community College

Parsons School of Design
Pennsylvania State University
Plymouth State University
Portland State University
Princeton University
Providence College
Quinnipiac University
Regis College
Rivier University
Roger Williams University
Rutgers University
Sacred Heart University
Saint Anselm College
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Salem State University
Salve Regina University
Simmons University
Southern New Hampshire University
Springfield College
St. John’s University
St. John’s University, Queens
Stonehill College
Suffolk University
Temple University
Texas State University
Trinity College
Tulane University
UMass Amherst
UMass Boston
UMass Dartmouth
UMass Lowell
United States Naval Academy
Universal Technical Institute
University of Connecticut
University of Maine
University of Michigan
University of New Hampshire
University of New Haven
University of North Carolina
University of South Carolina
Wellesley College
Wentworth Institute of Technology
Western Carolina University
Wheaton College
Worcester State University
Yale University

Donor Support Makes These Outcomes Possible

Behind every acceptance letter, scholarship award, and graduation milestone is a student who has worked hard and a community that believed in them. Donor support helps CSF Scholars access the opportunities that make these achievements possible, from high-quality education to college counseling, enrichment, and long-term encouragement.

The Class of 2026’s success is not only measured in graduation rates, college acceptances, or scholarship dollars. It is measured in the doors that are opening for students and the futures they are now prepared to pursue.

Thanks to the generosity of CSF donors, these seniors are stepping confidently into their next chapter.

Donate Today to Empower the Next Generation of CSF Scholars

Bright Futures in Bloom: Spring Visits to Partner Schools

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 04:00:00 +0000

This spring, the CSF team had the privilege of visiting many of our partner elementary schools across Greater Boston. Over several busy and inspiring weeks, we stepped into classrooms, walked hallways filled with student artwork, met scholars preparing for the next big step, and saw firsthand what donor support makes possible every day.

At each school, one thing was clear: CSF students are learning, leading, growing, and dreaming boldly about their futures.

One of the most meaningful parts of our spring visits was meeting graduating eighth-grade students as they prepared to continue their education at excellent high schools.

At Sacred Heart School, three eighth-grade student leaders gave us a wonderful tour of their school and shared their excitement about heading to Cristo Rey Boston, Fontbonne Academy, and Newton Country Day School of the Sacred Heart. Their confidence, warmth, and readiness for high school reflected years of hard work and the strong foundation they have built.

At Saint Anthony School, we saw eighth graders preparing for graduation while listening to a reading of *Oh, the Places You’ll Go!* It was a fitting moment for students standing at the edge of a new chapter, ready to carry their gifts, values, and education forward.

Across our visits, we also celebrated incredible CSF scholars, including Alexa, named a GO Scholar, and Nina, selected as a Peter Lynch Scholar, at Saint Pius V School. At Saint Mary of the Hills, we met Imani, a Peter Lynch Scholar, whose bright future reflects the promise we see in students across our partner schools. At Immaculate Conception School in Lowell, graduating Peter Lynch Scholar Gianna proudly shared her personalized ceiling tile, part of a beloved eighth-grade tradition that allows students to leave a lasting legacy at their school.

These moments remind us that scholarships do more than support a school year. They help students build confidence, leadership, and momentum for the future.

Our visits also gave us a front-row seat to the creativity and energy that fill CSF partner schools every day.

At St. Patrick School, sponsored by the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, the halls were alive with learning. Pre-K students were mastering the letter “R” with robots, kindergarteners were diving into the world of jellyfish, third graders were writing Memorial Day cinquain poems, and fourth graders were exploring California history. Even on a hot day, every classroom was filled with focus, joy, and high spirits.

At Saint Michael School, hands-on science was everywhere. Students were watching chicks hatch and even “adopting” Marigold, a calf from Laggis Farm in Vermont. These experiences brought science to life in memorable ways and showed the power of learning that is active, joyful, and deeply engaging.

At Immaculate Conception in Revere, our student-led tour introduced us to Matias and Abigail, CSF scholars who are also serving as Class President and Vice President. In the second-grade classrooms, students were eagerly watching caterpillars prepare to become butterflies, a perfect image of the growth taking place throughout the school.

At Saint Anthony School, younger students brought learning to life through song and imagination. First graders sang a beautiful spring concert rendition of “Do-Re-Mi” from *The Sound of Music*, while kindergarten students dressed as their favorite characters from the *Super Readers* series.

These are the daily moments your generosity helps make possible: curiosity sparked, confidence built, and students discovering what they are capable of achieving.

At every school, we saw not only academic growth, but also leadership, school spirit, and community.

At Lawrence Catholic Academy, the CSF team toured the brand-new school building for the first time alongside CSF Board of Trustees member Jennifer Braceras. The modern classrooms and vibrant hallways were inspiring, but the true heart of the visit was meeting three graduating leaders: Chelsea, an Inspiration Scholar; Liah, a GO Scholar; and Alysha, a Peter Lynch Scholar. Their presence made clear that this new chapter for LCA is about far more than a building. It is about launching the next generation of leaders.

At Trinity Catholic Academy in Brockton, students led our tour with pride and enthusiasm. Our guides included GO and Peter Lynch Scholars, and one especially memorable moment came when we learned that one student guide would be starring as the lead in the school’s production of Annie Jr.

At Cheverus Catholic School, we met with Inspiration, GO, and Peter Lynch Scholars and saw the strength of a school community focused on growth, impact, and opportunity. At St. Mary’s School, time with GO and Peter Lynch Scholars reinforced the tangible impact of CSF’s mission and the dedication of the students we are honored to support.

At East Boston Central Catholic School, we began our spring visits by celebrating outstanding scholars Violet, an Inspiration Scholar, and Anderson, a GO Scholar and Peter Lynch Scholar. Hearing directly from students about their goals and experiences was a powerful reminder of why this work matters.

Our spring visits were also an opportunity to meet with school leaders and deepen our shared work. Our team discussed grant goals, scholarship support, and the future of CSF partnerships.

These conversations are essential. They help ensure that donor generosity is directed where it can make the greatest difference: supporting students, strengthening schools, and expanding access to high-quality Catholic education.

Board members, including Cornell LeSane, Jennifer Braceras and Cindy Woods Wickwire, Chair of the Allocations Committee, joined the CSF team for several visits. Their presence reflected the deep commitment of CSF leadership to seeing our mission in action and staying closely connected to the communities we serve.

Your generosity helps students become readers, scientists, artists, poets, performers, leaders, and graduates. It helps schools create classrooms where curiosity is encouraged and where every child is known, supported, and challenged. It helps families access educational opportunities that can shape a student’s entire future.

This spring, we saw bright smiles, proud traditions, joyful classrooms, and students preparing to take their next steps with confidence. We saw the fruits of partnership. We saw the promise of what is possible when a community believes in children.

Thank you for opening doors, strengthening schools, and investing in the next generation of leaders.

Inspiration Scholars

Student	Elementary School	High School
Nesta	Cheverus Catholic School, Malden	Saint John's Preparatory School, Danvers
Violet	East Boston Catholic Academy, East Boston	The Commonwealth School, Boston
Chelsea	Lawrence Catholic Academy, Lawrence	Central Catholic High School, Lawrence
Gianelle	Sacred Heart School, Roslindale	Newton Country Day School, Newton
Esiah	Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy, Lower Mills	Fontbonne Academy, Milton

Go Scholars

Student	Elementary School	High School
Giada	Cheverus Catholic School, Malden	Malden Catholic High School, Malden
Anderson	East Boston Central Catholic School, East Boston	Boston College High School, East Boston
Matias	Immaculate Conception School, Revere	Saint Mary High School, Lynn
Liah	Lawrence Catholic Academy, Lawrence	Central Catholic High School, Lawrence
Yohanna	OLPH Mission Grammar School	Boston Latin School, Boston
Scheilande	Sacred Heart School, Roslindale	Cristo Rey Boston High School, Dorchester
Aubree	Saint Anthony School, Everett	Malden Catholic High School, Malden
Melissa	Saint Columbkille Partnership School, Brighton	Fontbonne Academy, Milton
Derick	Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy, Columbia Campus	Catholic Memorial School, West Roxbury
Xavier	Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy, Lower Mills	Xaverian Brothers High School, Westwood
Juan	Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy, Neponset	Archbishop Williams High School, Braintree
Shamell	Saint Mary High School, Lynn	Saint Mary High School, Lynn
Alexa	Saint Pius School, Lynn	Saint Mary High School, Lynn
Manuel	Saint Theresa School, Somerville	Malden Catholic High School, Malden
Milena	Trinity Catholic Academy, Brockton	Cardinal Spellman High School, Brockton

Peter Lynch Scholars

Student	Elementary School	High School
Mia	Academy of Notre Dame Elementary School, Tyngsboro	Academy of Notre Dame High School, Tyngsboro
Jessica	Bellesini Academy, Lawrence	Pingree School, Hamilton
Angelina	Blessed Sacrament School, Walpole	Cardinal Mooney High School, FL
Beniel	Cheverus Catholic School, Malden	Malden Catholic High School, Malden
Anderson	East Boston Central Catholic School, East Boston	Boston College High School, Dorchester
Gianna	Immaculate Conception School, Lowell	Lowell Catholic School, Lowell
Abigail	Immaculate Conception School, Revere	Saint Mary High School, Lynn
Alysha	Lawrence Catholic Academy, Lawrence	Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School, Methuen
Caroline	Lowell Catholic School, Lowell	Lowell Catholic School, Lowell
Ashley	Mother Caroline Academy, Dorchester
Anica	Sacred Heart School, Kingston	Cardinal Spellman High School, Brockton
Gianna	Sacred Heart School, Roslindale	Fontbonne Academy, Milton
Hayden	Saint Agatha School, Milton	North Quincy High School, Quincy
Daniella	Saint Agnes School, Arlington	Arlington Catholic High School, Arlington
Loralei	Saint Anthony School, Everett	Malden Catholic High School, Malden
Nueliez	Saint Augustine School, Andover	Greater Lawrence Technical School, Andover
McKinley	Saint Bridget School, Abington	Bristol County Agricultural High School, Dighton
Hailey	Saint Catherine of Siena School, Norwood
Leilah	Saint Columbkille Partnership School, Brighton	Newton Country Day School, Newton
Madison	Saint Francis Xavier School, Weymouth	Archbishop Williams High School, Braintree
Ellany	Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy, Columbia Campus	Ursuline Academy, Dedham
Jayden	Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy, Lower Mills Campus	Cardinal Spellman High School, Brockton
Monique	Saint John Paul II Catholic Academy, Neponset Campus	Cardinal Spellman High School, Brockton
Eric	Saint John the Baptist School, Peabody	Saint Mary High School, Lynn
Nicholas	Saint John the Evangelist School, Canton	Bishop Feehan High School, Attleboro
Jorden	Saint Mary High School, Lynn	Saint Mary High School, Lynn
Kennedy	Saint Mary of the Assumption School, Brookline	The Newman School, Boston
Imani	Saint Mary of the Hills School, Milton	Cardinal Spellman High School, Brockton
Jameina	Saint Michael School, Lowell	Lowell Catholic School, Lowell
Rebecca	Saint Michael School, North Andover	Central Catholic High School, Lawrence
Nina	Saint Pius V School, Lynn	Saint Mary High School, Lynn
Gisele	Saint Theresa School, Somerville	Malden Catholic High School, Malden
Brooke	The Saints Academy, Beverly	Bishop Fenwick High School, Peabody
Blake	Trinity Catholic Academy, Brockton	Boston College High School, Dorchester

Open Doors for a Student Today

The students listed above represent the promise, talent, and determination that CSF donors make possible. Your gift helps open the door for more scholars to learn, grow, lead, and thrive in schools that know and support them.

Make a Gift Today

CSF Alum Spotlight: From Brockton to the Classroom: How Scholarship Support Helped Jamil Davis Beat the Odds

Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

When Jamil Davis talks about his journey, he does not begin with awards or titles. He begins with Brockton.

Growing up in the middle of the city, Jamil describes himself as a latchkey kid. From a young age, he learned how to take care of himself while his mother worked two and sometimes three jobs to support the family. Life revolved around two things: basketball and school. Those were his anchors, his focus, and his path forward.

But even as a strong student, Jamil did not always see college as a certainty.

“For a long time, I believed the only way I could get to college was on a basketball scholarship,” he said. “I didn’t think there was another way I could afford it.”

That is why receiving a CSF scholarship became such a defining moment in his life.

A scholarship that changed everything

Jamil’s road to CSF was not a straight line. He attended Brockton Public Schools before transferring in eighth grade to Trinity Catholic Academy so he could continue playing basketball after middle school sports were cut in his district.

At Trinity, he entered as an outsider, joining a small, tight-knit class late in the year. But it was there that a new principal, who had only known him for a few months, saw something in him.

When a CSF scholarship opportunity came up, just after the application deadline, the principal called Jamil into his office and encouraged him to apply. He took on the responsibility of handling the recommendation and administrative pieces, asking Jamil to focus on his essay. CSF ultimately extended the deadline so he could be considered.

Looking back, Jamil still sees that moment as a turning point.

“Someone who had only known me for five or six months saw something in me and believed I was worth the investment,” he said.

Jamil received his first CSF scholarship in 8th grade, heading into Boston College High School, the first scholarship he had ever earned, and the one that opened the door to everything that followed.

“It was the first barrier that got taken away,” he said.

That support made attending Boston College High School possible and eased the financial pressure on his family, allowing him to focus not just on getting there, but on thriving once he arrived.

Finding confidence and purpose

At BC High, Jamil quickly realized he was capable of more than he had once believed. He describes himself at the time as “naturally smart, but not yet academic.” He could learn quickly, but he had never been taught how to study or how to believe in his own ability.

That changed because people took the time to invest in him.

He still remembers getting caught cheating on a quiz, not because he did not know the material, but because he lacked confidence in his own correct answers. Instead of giving up on him, a teacher worked with him every day after school, helping him build study habits, time management, and self-belief.

“I learned how to become a high school student instead of a middle school kid,” he said.

That transformation prepared him not just academically, but socially. Coming from Brockton into a very different environment at BC High pushed him to understand the world more deeply, his place in it, and the impact he could have on others.

From scholarship recipient to full-ride college graduate

By the time Jamil graduated from BC High in 2019, he had become a scholarship student in every sense of the word. What began with CSF continued to build momentum, and he received the Christian Herter Memorial Scholarship, opening doors he once thought were out of reach.

He went on to attend the College of the Holy Cross, where he graduated in 2023.

Scholarship support remained critical. Jamil shared that financial aid, including scholarships, ultimately allowed him to attend Holy Cross on a full ride. Even then, he worked 25 to 30 hours a week while in school, but because of that support, his earnings could go toward living expenses rather than tuition.

“It capped off what I needed,” he said. “That was super important because it took another barrier away.”

This is the impact of donor support. It does not just help students get in, it allows them to fully participate, grow, and succeed once they are there.

Education that shapes the whole person

At both BC High and Holy Cross, Jamil was deeply shaped by Jesuit education and its emphasis on forming the whole person.

For him, that meant combining learning with purpose.

“I fell in love with learning,” he said. “But I also realized you’re selfish if you keep that knowledge to yourself. What’s the point of being smart if you’re only smart for yourself?”

That mindset led him toward education.

Through service work, mentorship, and academic involvement, Jamil discovered a passion for helping others learn, especially young people navigating systems he once had to figure out on his own.

A transformative senior year

Jamil’s senior year at Holy Cross was filled with defining moments.

He helped lead the student effort to create a new Critical Race and Ethnic Studies department, working alongside faculty and students to demonstrate its importance and viability.

At the same time, he helped bring renowned author Nikole Hannah-Jones to campus and co-led a panel discussion in front of hundreds of people.

And on that very same day, he received life-changing news: he had been awarded a Fulbright scholarship.

“It felt like the top of the mountain,” he said.

A full-circle Fulbright experience

The Fulbright took Jamil to Honduras, a place deeply connected to his family’s roots, but one that no one in his family had returned to in decades.

Professionally, it pushed him to grow. Though he was selected as a teaching assistant, his university quickly recognized his ability and gave him the opportunity to lead his own courses.

At just 22 years old, he was teaching university classes of up to 60 students, many of whom were older than him and already working professionals.

“It taught me how to earn respect, how to lead, and how to trust what I know,” he said.

Personally, the experience was just as meaningful. It allowed him to reconnect with his heritage while building relationships that continue today.

Becoming the teacher he once needed

Today, Jamil is back where part of his journey began, Boston College High School.

Now an English teacher, basketball coach, and moderator of the Black and Latino Student Union, he is pouring back into the same community that helped shape him.

“I tell the students, ‘I remember being where you are,’” he said. “Now life has come full circle.”

That full-circle moment is the clearest example of impact.

A student once supported by donors is now mentoring, teaching, and guiding the next generation.

Jamil’s path into education is deeply personal. Growing up, he rarely saw teachers who looked like him. That reality stayed with him.

“I try to be the teacher I wish I had,” he said.

Beating the statistics

When asked to describe his story, Jamil summed it up in a single phrase:

“Beating all the statistics.”

He understands the odds he was up against. He grew up aware of the realities facing young Black men, especially those with family members impacted by incarceration. By the numbers alone, his path could have looked very different.

But his story is not defined by statistics.

It is defined by opportunity, resilience, and the people who believed in him.

Instead of becoming another data point, Jamil became a scholar, a full-ride college graduate, a Fulbright recipient, and now an educator shaping future generations.

A message to scholars and to donors

To current CSF scholars, Jamil offers this advice:

“Don’t give in to imposter syndrome. Every room you’re in, you are meant to be there. Even if it wasn’t originally designed for you, make it yours.”

And to the donors who made his journey possible, his message is one of deep gratitude and perspective:

“Your impact goes beyond anything you can see. You’re planting seeds you may never see grow, but that doesn’t make them any less important. You’re helping create a legacy.”

Because of donor support, Jamil was able to step into opportunities that once felt out of reach.

Because of donor support, he is now changing lives.

And because of donor support, stories like his will continue to unfold, one student at a time.

May 11th is Peter Lynch Day!

Mon, 11 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

TODAY IS PETER LYNCH DAY!

May 11th marks a special milestone for our school communities: Peter Lynch Day. It is a day to look beyond the classroom and celebrate the heart, hustle, and hope that define our students.

Since 2010, the Peter Lynch Scholars program has stood as a tribute to Peter Lynch’s legacy with the Catholic Schools Foundation. More than just a financial award, it is a recognition of the "Building Minds" mission in action.

Walk into any of our elementary schools today and you will see the Peter Lynch Scholar spirit. It is not just found in the student with the highest test scores; it’s found in the student who stays late to help a peer, the one whose work ethic never wavers despite challenges, and the one for whom a Catholic education is a life-changing door.

To be a Peter Lynch Scholar is to be a leader of character. Whether they are current scholarship recipients or 8th graders preparing for their next chapter, these students represent the very best of our Archdiocese.

For our graduating 8th graders, today carries extra weight. One student from every elementary school in the Archdiocese of Boston is being honored with a one-time $1,000 scholarship toward the Catholic high school of their choice.

This award is a bridge. It ensures that the values nurtured in elementary school, faith, service, and academic rigor, continue to flourish at the secondary level. These scholars are selected personally by their principals, individuals who have seen their growth firsthand and know the impact they will make on their future high school communities.

It is more than just a scholarship it is a life-changing opportunity for students to reach their full potential and give back to their communities.

To honor Peter’s commitment and support the next generation of scholars who will change the world, click below!

Support Our Scholars

This Mother’s Day, Help More Families Like Duber’s Thrive

Wed, 06 May 2026 04:00:00 +0000

A Mother’s Day Gift That Changes Lives

This Mother’s Day, we celebrate not just the love of mothers, but the quiet strength, sacrifice, and determination that shape generations. For Duber Gutierrez, a mother of three and a longtime member of the East Boston Central Catholic School community, motherhood and mission are deeply intertwined.

For over 12 years, Duber has worked in the Admissions Department at East Boston Central Catholic School—but her story began with something much simpler: a need.

“What inspired me to work in the Admissions Department was the need… to have someone who could provide information in Spanish to families,” she explains. “I recognized how important it was to make communication accessible and inclusive. That need motivated me to step into this role, and since then, I’ve seen my work as an opportunity to serve and support our community.”

That moment of recognition turned into a calling. Today, Duber is often the first voice families hear, guiding, reassuring, and helping them take their first steps into a Catholic school community.

Each day, Duber helps guide new families through the admissions process, many of whom, like her own family once did, are searching for opportunity and stability.

“The most rewarding part… is building trust with the families. They rely on my guidance and support, and over time, they see the results in their children’s academic, moral, and spiritual growth. It’s also meaningful to share real success stories from other students. I find great satisfaction in guiding families through the process and working together to overcome any challenges.”

Working in a Catholic school has also shaped her personally. “How does working within a Catholic school community influence your personal values?” we asked.

“Working in a Catholic school is deeply aligned with my values. Every day, I practice principles such as responsibility, respect, and service. In my role, I am able to reflect these values and share the mission of our school with the families we serve.”

Those same values carry into her role as a mother. At school, she may be “Mrs. Duber,” but at home, she is simply mama, guiding her children with intention and care.

Balancing both roles has not always been easy, but it has been meaningful.

“Balancing both roles has been very meaningful. I’ve always felt proud of my work at the school, where I have been for over 12 years.” She said “My children have grown up understanding that school is a shared space where we all have responsibilities,” she shares. “While I will always be their mother, at school I am also ‘Mrs. Duber,’ which helps maintain a healthy balance. As a Spanish speaker, I’ve also faced challenges with English, but those challenges have motivated me to grow and work even harder.”

At the heart of her parenting is one core value: gratitude.

“The most important value is gratitude. I want my children to recognize and appreciate all the people who have contributed to their growth. It is important to me that they never forget their roots and the values they were raised with. I want them to know gratitude is not just a value, it’s a way of life and one I never want them to forget.”

That gratitude is deeply connected to the opportunities her children have received opportunities made possible through the Catholic Schools Foundation (CSF).

Like many families, Duber once faced uncertainty.

“At the beginning, we were unsure if we could continue affording Catholic education,” she recalls. “The CSF scholarships made a tremendous difference for our family.”

Because of that support, what once felt out of reach became reality. Her daughter continued through eighth grade, attended a Catholic high school, and is now studying at the College of the Holy Cross. Her other children have followed similar paths.

“It is something we could not have imagined,” she says, “but it was made possible through CSF.”

Today, Duber not only witnesses that impact in her own family, she sees it every day in the families she serves.

“The most rewarding part is building trust,” she explains. “Families rely on my guidance… and over time, they see the results in their children’s academic, moral, and spiritual growth.”

Her children’s success has only deepened her belief in the power of Catholic education.

“In our family, education is essential, it is not an option but a priority,” she says. “From a young age, my children understood that education was the foundation for their future.”

That foundation has also led to moments of pride that are hard to put into words, like when her children were named Inspiration Scholars and spoke at CSF Galas.

“It means a great deal to me,” she shares. “These are achievements they earned not only through their hard work and dedication but their noble and charismatic personalities. I am very proud of them, especially since from a very young age, they have taken on challenges. Growing up in a culture unlike the one around them is not always easy. However, my kids never saw this as a setback, but rather a bigger motivation to succeed. In our home, we teach them and prepare them to work hard and strive for what they want. My husband and I are incredibly proud of everything they have accomplished, especially achievements like these that are a representation of their hard work and dedication.”

But Duber is quick to remind us: behind every success story is a community that made it possible.

This is where CSF donors come in.

Their generosity does not just fund scholarships, it fuels dreams, strengthens families, and empowers mothers like Duber to see new possibilities for their children.

When asked what she would say to other families considering applying, her answer is filled with both honesty and hope:

““I would encourage families to trust the process and not be afraid to ask for help. Stay informed, ask questions, and take advantage of every opportunity available. Scholarships can truly make a life-changing difference. Although it may not seem big at first, the lasting impact is one very worthwhile. Most importantly, don’t lose faith or motivation. With effort and support, many doors can open for your children if you seek the right path.”

This Mother’s Day, Duber’s story is a powerful reminder: when we invest in a child’s education, we uplift an entire family. And when we support a mother’s hope for her children, we help shape a future filled with purpose, gratitude, and opportunity.

Because of generous CSF donors, those dreams become reality.

And because of mothers like Duber, those opportunities turn into lasting impact, for families, for communities, and for generations to come.

We hope you will consider making a gift in honor of mothers everywhere.

Donate to Support Families This Mother’s Day