The 9/11 Promise Awards Scholarships to the Children of First Responders and Veterans

The 9/11 Promise, Inc. today announced awards to 11 deserving students who are the children of first responders or members of the US Armed Forces. This is the second group of recipients for these scholarships. Each recipient will receive a financial contribution toward their tuition and living expenses as they attend a mix of colleges and universities in the Fall of 2021.

The mission of the organization originated in the aftermath of the attacks against the United States on September 11, 2001 and the same themes of bravery and personal sacrifice echo now during the COVID-19 public health crisis. This year, also marked by our gradual recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, our nation’s first responders and military members continue to create stories of hope, courage, and service to others.

“This year marks a special occasion for our organization. Not only has it been 20 years since the tragic events that inspired our mission, but we are also recovering from another tragedy that shook our nation. The last year was a significant challenge for the entire world, and especially those families we serve” said Taylor Brown, Board Member of The 9/11 Promise, Inc. “Unfortunately, it took its toll on our ability to generate funds and interest as well. We’re excited to get back to our mission, and once again grow the pool of young students we can assist.”

This year 45 students applied for the 9/11 Promise scholarships. Each scholar was evaluated based on their need, academic ability, community service, and persistence. Scholars will go on to study in fields such as biological science, engineering, social work, medicine, computer science, and education.

These 11 scholars grew up with daily reminders of the highest examples of personal sacrifice shown by the individuals closest to them. The 9/11 Promise, Inc. is honored to offer a small repayment for all that they and their families have given to their grateful communities. A full list of the 2021 9/11 Promise Scholars, including the states they represent, their parent’s affiliations, and their destination schools, can be found here.

 

CALIFORNIA

Owen Walsh

Parent Affiliation: San Francisco Police Department
Destination: Pepperdine University
 
 

GEORGIA

Olivia Terry

Parent Affiliation: Hernando County Fire and Rescue
Destination: College of Coastal Georgia
 

NEW YORK

Brooke Hennigan

Parent Affiliation: New York City Fire Department
Destination: University of South Carolina
 

Jordan Romano

Parent Affiliation: New York City Police Department
Destination: Boston College
 

Julia Heming

Parent Affiliation: United States Navy
Destination: Stony Brook University
 

Julia Hughes

Parent Affiliation: New York City Police Department
Destination: Mercy College
 

Keira Vida White

Parent Affiliation: United States Navy
Destination: The College of William & Mary / St. Andrews
 

Matthew Brophy

Parent Affiliation: New York City Police Department
Destination: Adelphi University
 

Paige Hennigan

Parent Affiliation: New York City Fire Department
Destination: University of Scranton
 

Patrick Lyons

Parent Affiliation: New York City Fire Department
Destination: Cornell University
 

OHIO

Joshua Kernc

Parent Affiliation: City of Parma Patrol & US Marine Corps
Destination: University of Akron