 2010-2011 Scholarships
Molly Curran, a senior at Wachusett Regional High School, is described by her guidance counselor as “a doer; she sees an opportunity and develops a plan to proactively make a difference.” As president of the student council, Molly showed these qualities. She made her biggest impact and surpassed all expectations by organizing one of the largest and most successful charitable events in Wachusett Regional High School’s history. She organized an 11.5-mile walk for melanoma research in memory her friend’s father who died of cancer in the fall of 2009. Molly spoke to gain the support of local businesses, coordinated with Wachusett Mountain and Mass General Melanoma Research, and lead her classmates to create an unbelievably successful event. The walk ultimately saw 300 people participate and rose over $22,000, which was donated to Mass General Melanoma Research.
In addition to organizing and leading the charity walk, Molly has volunteered throughout her high school career; organizing or aiding at events such as Bikes not Bombs, Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Coats for Kids, and serving at the Mustard Seed. Academically, Molly has taken a rigorous course of study and is a member of the National Honors Society. In September 2011, Molly enrolled in Virginia Technical Institute and State University.
Lauren Vignaly, a senior at Worcester Academy, has volunteered countless hours to several organizations and was awarded the President’s Volunteer Service Award at her high school. Lauren has been a long-time member of her church’s youth group believing that religion has the ability to unite a community. As president of her youth group, she has organized and reached out to her community by raking leaves and delivering meals to the elderly shut-ins, helped to raise $11,000 for Haiti selling candy bars and organizing a spaghetti supper, and aided in her church’s efforts to house homeless families.
Lauren also reliably volunteered weekly at NEADS Dogs for Deaf and Disabled Americans, where she cares for service dogs and enjoys being part of a team that is helping disabled people. For the past two summers, she has also volunteered at WPI’s Camp Reach, an overnight engineering camp for middle school girls. Lauren used her leadership and mentoring skills to interest girls in science. Lauren’s advisor praised her level of leadership and ability to be a positive role model as “one of the most effective;” these skills were utilized by leading her group of 12 girls to research, plan, and present and design a play area for toddlers and their parents to the Jewish Community Center.
Academically, Lauren is an excellent student, is a member of the Cum Laude Society, and has been awarded several scholarships. In addition to her involvement in community service, she has been the president of Amnesty International, a member of the costume crew in the Theater Department, and a member of the soccer team. In September 2011, Lauren enrolled in Johns Hopkins University as a biomaterials engineering major.
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