Isabella Rose Benson Bella comes from Ponte Vedra Beach, FL. She is sponsored by Grandparent LaVerne Benson (70780), member of the Roving Ramblers Chapter 195 of Region V. Ms. Benson plans to attend the University of Tennessee to major in Psychology. In her scholarship application there is a clear picture of what she believes the future holds.
"I plan on becoming a Clinical Psychologist for special needs kids. Since my freshman year of high school, I have been determined to help our special needs individuals both at my school and in my community. It would be a dream come true to one day be able to help them grow every day as a profession."
Honors and activities at Ponte Vedra HS included a 4.0 weighted GPA throughout high school, National Honors Society, Science National Honors Society, PVHS Varsity Cheerleading while participating in the Children's Miracle Network Club serving in a variety of leadership roles. One of her recommendations affirmed with, "Belle exemplifies independent student leadership, unmatched competency, service above self and most importantly, both character and kindness"
In her scholarship essay the memories of a competition with her Team Pride comprised of students with special needs is retold. After months of practice there came their first competition. With tears of joy and pride Belle witnesses the success of her team as those students demonstrated confidence, courage, work ethic and positivity as they had during the season. She finishes: "I want to one day help other special needs kids grow to their fullest potential just like Team Pride did for me."
Daisy Grace Catlett A graduate of Valdosta High School, Daisy is sponsored by her Great Grandfather Al Morneault (86859), member of Chapter 143 Middle Georgia Ramblers in Region III. Ms. Catlett intends to enter the Georgia Military College to pursue studies in Speech Language Pathology. A long-range goal is to attend Valdosta State University and become an audiologist.
At a young age, she suffered from the divorce of her parents. She, brother, and mother all came to live with her grandparents. In that setting, her "grandpa" became her father figure. Supporting Daisy in school activities, encouraging her to be strong and to believe in herself.
In a letter of recommendation, the writer comments, "Daisy has spent her life a step ahead of her peers. Always a leader and being able to thrive in challenging environments." The Student Pastor at her church states, "It has been a privilege to see her mature in her Christian faith, whether it is help with the children's ministry, helping others on a mission trip, or lead activities among her peers."
In her essay she honors her grandfather again, "He fulfilled that empty spot in my heart and will always be the greatest father figure in my life."
Dylan Matthew Grady Graduating from Matanzas High School in Palm Coast FL, Dylan is sponsored by grandparents Matthew and Julia Libby (114651), member of Chapter 154 Royal Palm Ramblers in Region III. Dylan is looking forward to attending the University of Central Florida majoring in Aerospace Engineering.
Dylan has two strong influences in his life: music and science. Four years in marching band, band ensembles - a tuba quartet, and concert band. In the field of science, he has had classes in Physics and Experimental Technology.
In his essay he speaks of a positive influence made by pilots. His admiration of those who take on missions that demand focus such as helicopters pilots who had to fly in complete radio silence to complete a mission without being detected. Thus, demonstrating qualities of bravery and trust in their own ability and the ability of their fellow pilots.
Dylan has been active in scouting from Cub Scout to Boy Scout to Eagle Scout. He took part in a wide variety of Eagle Scout projects. Activities in his church have included mission trips, working at a local food pantry, setting up Christmas light displays, and cleaning up after a hurricane. All have kept Dylan busy during his school years, while he maintained outstanding academic honors, including AP Scholar in 2020.
John Michael Mauro John is a graduate of Colonie Central High School in Albany, NY and is sponsored by his grandparents Carmine and Helen Gizzi (8403), member of Chapter 100, Rambling Mohawks of Region I.
As one of his supporters wrote, "To say John is a Holiday Rambler child, is putting it mildly." His heritage runs back through several generations of those who were active in HRRVC events, and John many times helped at campouts, rallies, and outings. As a young child, during a Chapter 100 campout, he went into his grandparent's fifth wheel for a nap. He asked his grandmother, as others were outside during social hour, "Why are your friends laughing out there?" Just an introduction to the life of campout gatherings. A love of fishing is another of John's passions. Always seeking a lake or stream near any camping site, and not to forget digging for clams during times along the Delaware seashore.
While in high school there was a strong interest in basketball. Whether it was as a member of the school team, or serving as team manager, John exemplified commitment, responsibility, and selflessness. His coach wrote: "John brought a level of maturity and accountability to the team that lifted up the rest of his classmates." Great praise indeed.
Another wrote, "John has been an active member of Best Buddie, where he volunteers to help students with developmental disabilities. It is clear that teachers and administrators throughout the school see John as a responsible student who is both hard-working and smart."
Unclear what exact path to follow, he intends to enter Hudson Valley Community College following a general basic studies course. That will lead to a fouryear college to pursue a bachelor's degree in the area of his choice.
Jason Menor Jason is a graduate of Newport HS in Bellevue, WA. He is sponsored by grandparents Frank and Carol Menor (61584), member of Chapter 388 Evergreen Ramblers in Region VIII. Jason plans to start his education at Bellevue College to earn an associate's degree then move to a four year college to complete his degree.
In his own words, "It was a sunny, Sunday morning, I could feel the warmth of the sun on my shoulders, glistening through the windows. I was heavily involved in living room carpet farming with my green and yellow 1/64" scale John Deere Model A tractor - I must have been five years old at the time. The TV was on and all the sudden I stopped dead in my tracks as mesmerizing magical, music began playing sending chills up my spine. I was immediately transported, as if I could fly, and I landed smack in front of the television. As quickly as this music began, it vanished and just like eating a piece of chocolate, I wanted more!" He later learned that was Wynton Marsalis and his trumpet.
That experience led him to a long list of accomplishments as a member of the various music groups at Newport HS and surrounding area. Whether it be in jazz, symphonic, solo, or small ensemble, Jason and his trumpet excel. "I know music will always be a part of me and my life."
As for his second passion, geography, "I am a total geography nut!" With family ties with the agriculture of eastern Washington, he feels a strong connection between business connected to agriculture and geography. That connection, along with how GPS systems can affect production, may lead Jason down that path of starting his own business that link all together.
Tony Bennett once said "If you follow your passions, you'll never work a day in your life." That could well be said of Jason as he sets to follow two passions: music and agriculture.
Luke Alexander Morneault A graduate of Oconee County High School in Watkinsville, GA, he is grandson of Al and Kathy Morneault (86859) of Chapter 43 Middle Georgia Ramblers in Region III. He will be attending Colgate University planning to major in Biochemistry.
Sports, scouting, and environment form the basis for Luke's interests through his early years of life. Writing about his father, Luke recounts the support offered and the option of making his own choices. Luke says he is glad his father pushed him to try different sports (such as swimming, running, football, soccer and baseball) as it helped him to see which one fit him best. Especially in swimming sending me articles from professionals about proper swimming techniques. He is always supportive and a great friend.
Luke obtained the rank of Eagle Scout at the age of 16, also served as patrol leader, quartermaster, and trainer for the younger scouts.
Holding a concern for our environment, Luke has worked, studied, and researched for the Upper Oconee Watershed Network regarding how stormwater runoff pollutes. He volunteered to lead the Stormwater Geotrail program and sites. Working with experts in the field studying how to make our environment more sustainable and to protect ecosystems from harm. This effort solicited this praise; "Luke has demonstrated that he can work alongside experts in the field and that he understands the importance of service but linking these skills and this sense of purpose and mission is truly remarkable for someone his age."
As one said, "Luke seeks out and gracefully accepts constructive criticism and advice that he in turn uses to improve his skills." High praise and a necessary skill for a life, and certainly for having a successful college career.
Annika Jenae Wiebers Annika is a graduate of Heshima Academy Homeschool in Warnego, KS. Her grandparents are James and Nancy Riemann (98974) members of Chapter 32 Sunflower Ramblers, Region V. She plans to attend Kansas State University to pursue Agricultural Communications and Journalism.
"Head, Heart, Hands, Health". These four "H's" are the cornerstone of the 4-H youth development program which has been a defining influence in my life since I was five years old." These words begin Annika's essay and certainly bodes well for her future. One individual wrote Annika has invested over a dozen years in 4-H at all levels and that activity has allowed her to mature and take on numerous leadership roles. "She seems to effortlessly glide between a volleyball match, academic coursework, volunteer activities at church and within her community of Warnego, KS."
There is a close tie between agricultural and communication with Annika weaving those ties as she chooses projects and educational courses. With seven semesters of debate and public speaking, it is clear she has ability to share her thoughts in a convincing manner.
Along with parents and grandparents, she has participated in several chapter campouts and at the young age of two attended the International Maintenance Session in Goshen.
Her final words in her essay sum nicely: "Over the years, many 4-H members have helped shape and influence me greatly. I admire the qualities they exhibited using their head, heart, hands, and health to mentor younger 4-H'ers. I hope I am following in their footsteps, not just as a role model within 4-H, but also as someone who strives to serve those around me."
Marc Mascariñas White Marc is a graduate of Oak Hill High School, Oak Hill, WV. He is sponsored by his father Ricky White (119572). He resides in Region II. Marc intends to enter Marshall University to study Pre- Physical Therapy.
Raised by a single mother, after the early death of his father, Marc, his mother, and his sister struggled financially. Sadly, his family experienced the misfortune of falling prey to individuals who made the promise of money and travel to the U.S., but those promises failed to materialize. As Marc recounts in his essay, "This seems like an almost impossible task for a lone person with no money to undertake, but lucky enough my mom was blessed to meet a man that would take all of her worries and problems and help carry that burden." He continues, "It takes a lot of love to do what they did and my one goal in this life is to repay their love by becoming a successful son."
A member of National Honor Society, participated in the school's Science Bowl incorporating math and science into a competition quiz bowl for the past three years. In the area of sports, Marc is part of the school soccer team, helping the team reach regionals. He is also a member of the school's tennis team.
Outside of school, his interest and involvement are with his church, being a member of the CYO He works at a food pantry, and helps teach Vacation Bible School.
A science teacher wrote, "His interpersonal and leadership skills allowed him to work successfully with alternating lab groups throughout the semester in a mature matter, no matter what role played. It has been great to see him grow and develop his learning skills toward a medical career."
