WILMINGTON, Del.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The I Could Do Great Things Foundation, founded in 2009 by Stuart M. Grant and Suzanne B. Grant, is pleased to announce the 2023 winners of the 8th annual Beau Biden Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship is named in honor of former Delaware Attorney General Beau Biden, who passed away in 2015 at age 46. It honors college-bound high school seniors “who embody the virtues of Beau Biden, qualities of leadership, community, civility, respect, and who demonstrate a strong moral compass.” The 2023 Scholarship recipients are an impressive group of Delaware high school seniors – Jordy Estrada, Jack Thompson, Max Rosenthal, Caroline Ricketts and Jessica Lattanzi.
Congratulations to Jordy Estrada the Gold Scholarship winner who will receive a $10,000 scholarship to Cornell University. Jack Thompson and Max Rosenthal, as the Silver Scholarship winners, will each receive a $5,000 award. Jack will be attending Gettysburg College and Max is heading to the University of Delaware. Caroline Ricketts will be attending Smith College and as the Bronze Scholarship winner will receive a $2,500 scholarship. Finally, Jessica Lattanzi will also be heading to the University of Delaware and, as a scholarship finalist, will receive an award of $1,000.
The Scholarship selection team reviewed applications from numerous high school seniors before naming this year’s winners. The selection committee commented, “The recipients of this year’s Beau Biden Memorial Scholarships embody Beau Biden’s legacy of community service, benevolence, and good will. We have faith that they will go on to do great things for their communities.”
More on the 2023 Beau Biden Memorial Scholarship recipients:
Jordy Estrada
Jordy, a graduate of Indian River High School, has already had an impact on Delaware. In his application he said: “As the State Treasurer for Business Professionals of America for the State of Delaware, I must act by setting up fundraisers for the entire State of Delaware for funds that would be used for our State Leadership Conference. I must travel throughout the whole state to talk to schools and students who may need my help. As Class President, I must always attend school board meetings and bring up any issues necessary for our school’s and students’ success. I also every year help our district’s food pantry and thrift shop by donating thousands of foods and clothing.” Although a busy graduating senior, the selection committee was truly impressed by the sustained efforts of Jordy’s community contributions as well as his passion for politics to truly make a difference. In the true spirit of Beau Biden, Jordy exemplifies leadership and charitable qualities.
Jack Thompson
Jack, a graduate of Salesianum School, started an environmental advocacy group in his sophomore year of high school. He focused his efforts on encouraging his peers to get involved at the state level. He even drafted a bill and led the effort to get it passed in the state legislature that ties funds from pollution fines to support undeserved areas within the state. Quite impressive for a high school student! Jack was appointed by the chairman of the Delaware Democratic party to reboot the High School Democrats in Delaware group. One of his teachers wrote: “Like the Scholarship’s namesake, Jack combines remarkable patience, a formidable intellect, and a kind heart.” Jack clearly embodies the spirit of Beau Biden and will surely continue to have a positive impact on our country.
Max Rosenthal
Max graduated from Wilmington Friends School and will surely be a great asset at the University of Delaware. Like many people, Max has always been saddened at the sight of homeless people. Max decided to try to make a difference and spent time volunteering at a homeless shelter. He encouraged friends to join him. During his years at Wilmington Friends, Max ran with the Cross Country team and also participated on the Mock Trial team. A letter of recommendation commented that “Max worked to ensure that the food pantry at the Jewish Family Services was stocked…and that he “demonstrated sincere concern for his community.” Max certainly exhibits qualities of Beau with a deep concern and call to action to make the world a better place.
Caroline Ricketts
Caroline graduated from Laurel Senior High School and is headed to Smith College. Caroline has been a leader within the Laurel Marching band and a champion for those who need a voice of encouragement and support. First in her high school class, Caroline leaves with numerous awards and recognitions. She was a 2023 Delaware Secretary of Education scholar and a graduate of the University of Delaware Governor’s School for Excellence.
Jessica Lattanzi
Jessica graduated from Archmere Academy with an extraordinary GPA and is headed to the University of Delaware. Not only did she succeed in academics, but she also boosted the sense of inclusivity of the school by revamping the DEI (Diversity, Equity and Inclusion) club. Jessica also brought her passion on this subject to the YWCA where she trained to become a certified racial and social justice facilitator. On top of all of that, she was a volleyball standout, serving as Captain of the team senior year and actively participating on a travel volleyball team.
More details about the Beau Biden Memorial Scholarship are available on the Foundation’s site at https://icoulddogreatthings.org.
About I Could Do Great Things Foundation
Founded in 2009 by Stuart Grant and Suzanne Grant, The I Could Do Great Things Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides funding for projects that can improve the life of one individual, one community or the entire world. The Foundation was created with the belief that there are lots of people who could do Great Things if only they had the financial wherewithal to fund those ideas, and the Foundation offers project grants, scholarships and internships to applicants to help them meet their goals. For more information, please visit: https://icoulddogreatthings.org/
Contacts
Suzanne Grant
302-723-1499
