Foundation Academies recently celebrated the Class of ’23 for their achievements and plans for the future during their annual “Senior Signing Day” event.
“These students are making Trenton proud and proving that hard work pays off,” said Foundation Academies CEO Sheria McRae. “I look forward to staying in touch and cheering on their new accomplishments.”
FA Senior Signing Day brings together the academy’s learning community — teachers, families, friends, and supporters — to look back at scholars’ academic journeys, applaud their achievements, and encourage them to pursue their dreams. This year, the tradition included several FA alums returning for a Senior Breakfast to share tips for continued success beyond high school.
“Always strive to be elevating,” said Stockton University student Marissa Armstrong. “Surround yourself with those who have the same drive.”
Foundation Academy Collegiate Class of 2023 includes more than 70 scholars living in Trenton. The Class has already achieved many goals — succeeding through high school years, including virtual, hybrid, and in-person instruction. About two dozen scholars are the first generation in their families committed to college.
“These seniors have worked relentlessly through many obstacles to reach their goals,” said Collegiate Principal Isabel Goss. “I am very proud of who they are – and who they will become as they continue on their path to a purpose-filled life.”
Graduating seniors have been accepted into colleges or universities, including the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Rutgers University, Rider University, Stockton University, The College of New Jersey, and Mercer County Community College.
Three graduating seniors are entering military service: JanCarlo Corado and Emmanuel Morrissey are joining the US Marine Corps, and Lauren Colop is joining the US Air Force.
The Class of 2023 has received more than $9 million in scholarships and awards from outside groups. Scholarship recipients include:
- Dylan Hernandez, Trade School Scholarship Award, and The Smith Family Foundation
- Amy Sepulveda, College Board Big Futures Explorer Scholarship
- Jayda Tineo, Rice & Greens Investment Group Scholarship
- Ashley Ortiz, Ellen Knowles Harcourt Scholarship
In addition, the Friends of Foundation Academies Knight Fund also provides scholarships, persistence grants, and emergency support to graduates as they navigate “to and through” college. The fund has committed more than $250,000 to FA grads. The Class of 2023 Knight Fund Round Table Scholars include:
- Alejandro Aponte, University of Richmond
- Hafiza Malik, The College of New Jersey
- Marleny Rodrigues, Stockton University
- Deena Vicente, The College of New Jersey
- Xavier Smith, Rider University
The Ron Brady Scholarship recognizing a student who has demonstrated grit and resilience to work through obstacles and achieve goals was awarded to Jayda Tineo, pursuing degrees in psychology and sociology at Rider University.
Dylan Hernandez received The Artisan Award for a scholar who exemplifies persistence, passion, and commitment to a trade or vocation. Dyan will be pursuing electrician training at Pennco Tech.
The Graig Weiss Alumni Changemaker Award recognizing an alum committed to a career serving the greater good was given to Siani Crowell, Class of ’16, who is a teacher at Foundation Academies, and JonBonae’ Shipman, Class of ’15, a member of the FA College & Career Advising Department.
John Salvetta, director of FA College & Career Advising Department, thanked NJM Insurance and other sponsors, including AmeriHealth, CBIZ Borden Perlman, Hatfield Schwartz Law Group LLC, Dennis and Susan Walsingham, Mercer County Community College, and Stockton University for stepping forward to support these scholars.
“It means so much for our seniors to know the entire community stands behind them as they take the next steps in their life journey,” Mr. Salvetta said. “Together, we can help scholars achieve their goals.”
To support FA scholars on their paths to purpose, please consider giving them a gift to the Knight Fund. If you’d like to learn more about Foundation Academies and the lives they change every day, please visit their website here: FA – Home.
With graduation on June 16, these scholars have much to anticipate in the days, months, and years to come. From the team at Trenton Daily, we’re extending hearty congratulations to this exemplary group of scholars!
FA Collegiate Class of 2023 includes more than 70 scholars living in Trenton. Graduating seniors plan to attend colleges or universities, including the New Jersey Institute of Technology, Rutgers University, Rider University, Stockton University, The College of New Jersey, and Mercer County Community College. This class has received more than $9 million in scholarships and academic awards.
