Dear Nick, Lorie, and Meg,
Two hundred years ago, Catherine McAuley penned these words which defied 19th-century perceptions of what women could and should achieve. Catherine was a visionary who realized that education is the key to enable women to make a difference in the world and affect social change. She believed that every girl was deserving of an education, no matter her social status. We continue this work today, true to our time and place. You have our profound thanks for partnering with us in this crucial mission.
With great appreciation, we are pleased to present our 2022-23 Howley Scholars of Achievement. These young women are acutely aware that they would not be here without the support of The Howley Foundation, and, for this, they are extremely grateful. Each is keenly aware of the life-changing opportunities that are open to them now, thanks to the generosity of the Howley Foundation.
These students are pursuing challenging studies in humanities, science, mathematics, art, and music.
They are fully applying themselves to each endeavor as they serve in the community, compete athletically, perform on the stage, and take on leadership positions, all the while sharing in the loving and supportive sisterhood unique to Merion Mercy. As you will see, they report that they are certain they are on a journey to become the woman they want to be.
We are immensely proud of our Howley Scholars of Achievement. As you read their stories, I am sure you will be too.
With gratitude and kindest regards,
Marianne Grace Head ofRecipients:
Class of 2026
Azul Cornejo
Taylor Cummings
Naomi Goniche
Mamai Kortue
Stacey Reese
Valarie Scott
Class of 2025
Abigail Habteslase
Ayanna Jones
Katie Lisaint
Justine Weng
Sabrina Zou
Class of 2024
Hannah Cramutola
Jacklyn Dang
Naomi Hines
Catarina Lam
Carolyn Pham
Jonae Thomas
Class of 2023
Ti’Yan Driggins
Cecilia Lam
Joi Lewis
Shannon Pagan
School
“No work of charity can be more productive of good to society than the careful instruction of women.”
Azul Cornejo ’26
I am deeply grateful to the Howley Foundation for enabling me to attend Merion Mercy. I began my Merion Mercy journey on my pre-admission Shadow Day. It was the best day ever. The student I shadowed and, in fact, all the students, teachers, and staff, were incredibly nice and really made me feel welcome. Sooner than later, I received my letter of acceptance, but the joy of this moment was tempered by my parents’ concern over the tuition required. I knew my attendance at Merion completely depended on financial assistance. But soon, I received the very happy news that I was granted a scholarship award, making it possible for me to join the class of 2026. I could finally go to my dream school, where I would be in a caring environment and get the attention I deserved. I was certain that Merion Mercy was where I wanted to spend my next four years. I quickly overcame my freshman jitters and made many new friends. This academic year has included lots of studying and lots of fun activities.
I have never liked a school as much as I like Merion Mercy. Even over winter break, I missed my teachers and friends. This school feels like my second home. My favorite class is French because I love my teacher, Dr. Pidot. He makes us feel safe. We have fun in this class, and we learn something new everyday. Biology is my most challenging class, yet I love my Biology teacher, Dr. Oakley, too. While I have trouble with the vocabulary, I do very well in homework, labs, and projects. I have discovered I am good at history. All I needed to enjoy this subject was a great teacher like Ms. Behrend, who helps me understand what I need to know. Outside of academics, I participate in the Spanish Club and the National Art Honor Society. I also enjoy the service opportunities here, particularly when I get the chance to feed the hungry. Now in my second semester, I am participating in the Spanish Honors Society and working on our school newspaper, Ricordia. All of this is thanks to The Howley Foundation. I am looking forward to three more years here, and I owe it all to being named a Howely Scholar of Achievement.
Taylor Cummings ’26
Thanks to the support of The Howley Foundation, I am a member of the Merion Mercy freshman class. I was attracted to Merion by the outstanding academics and their record of 100% college placement. I needed a clear path to college, and now I know I will get there as a Merion Mercy graduate.
I am learning lots of new things and growing and strengthening in areas that I have already started to explore. I am very interested in computer science, and at Merion there are lots of ways for me to learn more about this. My Introduction to Coding class with Mrs. Gregitis was amazing, and she encouraged me to push forward in this subject. I am in the Coding and Cyber Security Club where we learn about programming, as well as the STREAM club where we explore robotics, gaming, and ways technology can make the world better. I am very proud of teaching my peers about coding, helping them with assignments, and working on projects with them. In my spare time, I do independent research and reading on computer science.
My first year at Merion has been great, even with the stress of my first time having midterms. Honors Geometry is challenging, but I like it very much. My Literature class is wonderful. I really enjoy the ASIA Club where I learn about Asian culture. I have made many friends that I believe I will have for a very long time. I love leading teams in project work, making sure everyone is comfortable and organized, and helping to guide the group to solutions for the problem at hand. While I am not yet sure about where my talent lies, I am sure I will have lots of opportunities to explore my strengths. I very much appreciate the help and support of The Howley Foundation, making it possible for me to attend this wonderful school.
Naomi Goniche ’26
I am very grateful and proud to be among the Merion Mercy Howley Scholars of Achievement. Merion Mercy was my clear choice for the perfect high school experience. I could see that not only would Merion prepare me for college, but I would also be prepared for life. I was particularly attracted to the all-girls environment, especially a school with such a great academic program. I believe that this will help me build self confidence. Here in my first year, I am certain that Merion Mercy will provide all I have hoped for and more.
I love every one of my teachers here. Each of them has encouraged me to be my best self. My favorite is Honors Geometry class. I am getting better at math every day, and I am finding that success builds on success. All of the teachers here are amazing and have encouraged me to be the best of myself. I participate in Mercy Mission Corps, Black Student Union, and the Robotics Club. I will run Track and Field in the spring. Merion’s annual traditions of Weenie Roast, the Harvest Moon dance, and Red, Green and Jingle Day are great fun. Through it all, I have made many meaningful friendships. These are people I want to have with me on my journey through life.
Thank you for providing me with the support to allow me to attend Merion Mercy Academy. I can see, even as a freshman, that I would not be able to have these amazing experiences without the Howley Scholarship. You have provided me with such a great opportunity. I am very proud that I can achieve very good grades in such a competitive academic environment. I am very proud to be a Howley Scholar. This motivates me to press on and study hard. Your help is very meaningful to me, and I will continue my progress and studies. Without the support of The Howley Foundation, I would not be here at Merion Mercy Academy. Once again, I thank you.
Mamai Kortue ’26
Choosing Merion Mercy Academy is absolutely the best decision I have ever made. I am deeply grateful to The Howley Foundation for allowing me to attend this wonderful school. When I came here I did not know a single person, but I have adjusted quite well and I am very comfortable at Merion.
Yes, there have been some academic and emotional ups and downs on this great adventure. With the support of my friends and our wonderful teachers, I have managed these challenges, and now I am thriving. I am very involved in my home parish, and it is a challenge to participate in all the co-curricular activities that I would like to do. But I do what my schedule will permit, and I am able to participate in Mathletes and Hip Hop Dance Club. I have also participated in Mock Trial. This spring, I am joining the track team.
I have made lots of new friends, and I know I can count on my teachers to support me at every turn. I am so happy to be a Howley Scholar of Achievement as I now have the opportunity to achieve in many areas of my life. I offer my great thanks to The Howley Foundation for enabling me to be a member of the Class of ’26.
Stacey Reese ’26
I am forever grateful to The Howley Foundation for providing the opportunity for me to attend Merion Mercy Academy. My dream since fifth grade was to be able to call myself a “Mercy Girl,” and, thanks to you, that dream has become a reality. I know that I can accomplish great things here. There is so much for me to do and learn in these next three years of high school, and I am proud to do so here at Merion. I am very busy with clubs, schoolwork, and service. I am enjoying participating in three different clubs right now—Black Student Union, Mock Trial, and Ricordia, our school newspaper. I am joining the track team this spring. Even with these activities, I still find time to socialize with my friends and enjoy my high school experience.
I am currently doing very well in all of my classes. I struggled in the beginning to make an adjustment to this very strong curriculum. Once I understood my teachers’ ways, how they construct their assignments, and their grading methods, I was able to get right into the flow of their teaching and my learning. I can already see my capacity to grow vastly expanding. I am broadening my scope and raising my goals. This is an outstanding educational opportunity, and I have The Howley Foundation to thank for this. You are giving me a great chance to control where I go in life.
Valarie Scott ’26
I knew that Merion Mercy Academy was the school for me because I could see that I would have the opportunity to grow personally and academically and eventually become the woman I want to be. Amid any challenges, I enjoy a comforting and supportive environment.
This year, I joined the National Art Honor Society; I am also the basketball team manager. In doing these activities, I recognize that I have a growing understanding of responsibility.
Since coming here, one of the things of which I am most proud is my increasing ability to manage my time. I have learned how to pace myself by not taking on too much at one time, and how to minimize stress.
Importantly, there is always time for fun. One of my favorite memories at Merion was our basketball team sleepover. It was a great experience, and it brought our team closer as friends and as teammates. I am also very proud of the friendships I have developed. These individuals brighten my day and make my Merion Mercy experience all the more meaningful. For me, this Merion Mercy journey is the best experience ever. Thank you to The Howley Foundation for supporting me. Because of you, I am very proud to call myself a “Mercy Girl.” This is a dream come true.
Abigail Habteslase ’25
First and foremost, I extend my great thanks to The Howley Foundation for your generosity and support. I am tremendously grateful to be named a Howley Scholar of Achievement. My family and I cannot thank you enough for this great kindness. Because of you, I am able to attend this prestigious private school.
Every aspect of Merion Mercy Academy is astounding. The academic bar is high, but my teachers have inspired me to rise to this challenge. The co-curriculars here are also great. I enjoy participating in Women for Life and Love, Self-care and Beauty Club, and Blue Key Society, where I have the honor of serving as an ambassador for Merion Mercy at open houses, on visits, and tours. Women for Life and Love is especially meaningful; our work is about empowering women and defending the life of the unborn.
I find every aspect of Merion astounding. I really enjoy my time here. Thanks to The Howley Foundation, we Howley Scholars experience great joy and meaning in our Mercy journey. There are not enough words to express my gratitude for your generosity.
Ayanna Jones ’25
Thanks to this Howley Scholarship, I have grown a great deal over the last two years. I have broadened my capacity to make more friends and to join new clubs and activities, and I am more willing to try something new even if it initially appears difficult. Between homework and cocurricular activities, I am challenged to balance my time. Although sometimes a little tough, this is a great opportunity, and I realize I am learning more and more about responsibility and time management. Growing in responsibility and time management have been key goals since the start of sophomore year.
I have learned how to trust people through friendship, collaboration, and sharing new experiences like food and music. My American Literature instructor, Mrs. Restifo, challenges me to be the best person I can be. She is a little hard on me, but I know this is done out of love and concern, as well as from her belief that I can be better. I am thrilled to learn more about myself and about all the things I am capable of. I feel a great sense of gratitude for being named a Howley Scholar of Achievement. Without you, none of this would be possible.
Katie Lisaint ’25
Thank you, Howley Foundation, for giving me the chance to be at Merion Mercy Academy. Sophomore year is going great, and my classes are going really well. I particularly enjoy Psychology, which I started just this semester. I find all my teachers to be super helpful, supportive, and friendly. I get the same feeling from the staff and administration. I joined the Hip Hop dance troupe, and this has been great fun. We performed a Christmas-themed dance as part of our Christmas concert, which was very exciting! I am an active member of the Black Student Union, and I am grateful that there is time and space for me to feel comfortable with people who look like me. This second semester looks very promising as the weeks unfold.
One of the best parts of sophomore year is that I feel like my circle of friends is growing bigger and stronger. I appreciate the fact that we are all held to a high standard of personal conduct. I know that this encourages us to be the best we can be. I feel like all my teachers are personally focused on each of us becoming our best selves, both academically and personally.
I love this community because I am among people who support each other and encourage one another to succeed. I am very grateful to be named a Howley Scholars of Achievement. I am inspired and encouraged by the faith you have put in me. For this, I cannot thank you enough.
Justine Weng ’25
I am incredibly lucky to count myself among the Merion Mercy Howley Scholars of Achievement. Please allow me to express my undying gratitude for the amazing opportunity this scholarship provides to me and students like me. Merion Mercy has been a wonderful second home to me. I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to come to Merion, thanks to you.
Here, I have so many opportunities. I am definitely enjoying my academic experience. I am proud to say I have achieved Distinguished Honors. My favorite classes are Introduction to Law and Honors Chemistry. I was not a fan of chemistry until I had a teacher like Dr. Hogg, who makes the class enjoyable and engaging. Mr. Rash, my Introduction to Law teacher, tells us the best stories as he relates life to the law. I have made many friends in all my classes, and I made even more friends through my co-curricular activities. This year, I competed in Mock Trial on the Varsity Gold Team where, I am proud to say, we were crowned Co-Champions of Delaware County. I also joined the Student Council as well as the staffs of Ricordia, our school newspaper, and Image Explosion, our literary and art magazine. I also enjoy competing in Mathletes.
Even more, I would say that the highlight of my Merion experience would definitely be all the exciting traditions we have— Mission Week, Mercy Day, Weenie Roast, the Harvest Moon, Red Green, and Jingle Day, and more! Thank you so much for this amazing opportunity. I feel like I am on the road to success, and this is a very happy journey. Thank you for enabling me to thrive at this wonderful school.
Sabrina Zou ’25
I thank you for my Howley Scholarship. Without this support, my parents would not be able to send me to a wonderful school like Merion Mercy. I have had both challenges and achievements this past year, but, in the end, I learned something from all of it.
My classes this year are great. I love Honors Chemistry with Dr. Hogg. Sometimes I struggle with the concepts, but Dr. Hogg is very kind and able to make things clear. The highlight of my day is Honors Art with Mrs. Boyd. At Merion, we are encouraged to do service whenever we can. I distribute food to the elderly at Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation. I started running in a running club called Students Run Philly Style. Recently, I ran a marathon. I have found that running is a great way for me to manage stress, and this helps me to achieve balance in my life overall. I have made plenty of friends here at Merion, and it makes coming to school a real pleasure. We help and support one another, and I can see the sisterhood of Merion Mercy is growing strong.
Again, I would like to express my gratitude to The Howley Foundation for enabling me to come to Merion Mercy Academy.
Hannah Cramutola ’24
I am very appreciative of this Howley Scholarship. Your support is definitely helping me and my family. I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to have an amazing education at this great school.
The course work in my junior year has been fairly demanding. Yet, as the months roll by, I am finding that I really can keep up, and it is all becoming much easier to manage now. My favorite classes this year are Physics, Spanish 3, and British Literature. Physics has proven to be very challenging, but I am excited to learn more and more about the subject. My Physics teacher, Dr. Durkin, is one of my favorite teachers. He is so smart and inspiring; I wish I could be just like him. I also love learning Spanish, and I especially love speaking this language. My British Literature teacher, Ms. Sack, is very kind and makes class quite enjoyable. We read The Canterbury Tales, and I learned lots of things about England that I never knew before. I cannot wait to learn more in this class. I also took a course in personal finance, and I was not expecting to like it as much as I did. As it turned out, I found I have a talent for finance, and it became my best grade in all of my years at Merion.
I am also enjoying my activities. Mercy Mission Corps is great. My mom and I have had a chance to do lots of service opportunities together. It feels great to give back to the community. I also am a member of the Environmental Club, and I work on Image Explosion, our literary magazine.
I am proud to be named a Howley Scholar of Achievement. I will continue to work hard so that I don’t waste a minute of this wonderful education. I am grateful for your help and support.
Jacklyn Dang ’24
The Howley Foundation scholarship has truly changed my life, and I say this with great gratitude. I have received many opportunities at Merion Mercy Academy that have definitely improved my education and my life. I am taking some challenging courses this year, including AP Chemistry and Accelerated Honors Math. It is hard work, but I know it will be worth it in the end. I have a wonderful group of friends who I talk to whenever I feel happy or sad. The Merion community is so very kind. I am a person of color, and this community accepts me as I am.
I am a proud member of the National Honor Society as well as the Math Honor Society and Latin Honor Society. These groups have built my confidence. These honor societies have a service component, which is great as I really enjoy helping others. I have made several friends in my co-curricular activities—ASIA club, Dungeons and Dragons, Mathletes, and KPop Club. I enjoy working on stage crew, where I am learning the true value of teamwork. I have just been named Head of Lights, and it is such a fun experience learning how lighting works and how it is such an important component of any theatrical production.
Merion Mercy has indeed provided me with many wonderful and exciting opportunities. I am already looking forward to senior year, when I will have even more exciting things to do and learn. I deeply appreciate the scholarship support of The Howley Foundation. Without it, I would not have the opportunity to experience this fabulous education in this wonderful community.
Naomi Hines ’24
I want to take this opportunity to offer my profound thanks for being named a Howley Scholar of Achievement. I very much appreciate the opportunity to immerse myself in the outstanding academic program offered here, as well as the abundant activities. I am always challenged to be my very best, both academically and socially.
I have immersed myself in their wide range of extracurricular activities including the Blue Key Society, where I am given the opportunity to be a leader in my community. I love being a Blue Key ambassador because not only do I have the chance to lead, but I also have the opportunity to socially engage with potential Merion sisters! As an ambassador, I have the privilege of welcoming incoming students to Merion, hosting outreach events, and assisting our Admissions Department. I am also a member of the National Art Honor Society through which we do community service using our artistic talents. In addition, I participate in the Black Student Union, and I am a member of the track and field team.
I am incredibly grateful to be here at Merion in this academically challenging and supportive community. I offer my most sincere thanks to The Howley Foundation. It is because of your support that I can fully experience all that Merion Mercy has to offer. I will graduate from Merion Mercy fully ready for the next chapters of my academic and personal life.
Catarina Lam ’24
My time at Merion has been wonderful—filled with precious moments, close friends, memorable events, hard-won achievements, and highlights from various activities. I am almost sad to know that much of my high school experience is behind me.
I was inducted in the National Honor Society in November, and I am proud to wear my pin. My favorite class is Honors Music Major, in which we review basic music theory and advance into triads, scales, modes, and inversions—all material that I love. Dr. Latham, my teacher, is one of the kindest and happiest people I’ve ever met. I recently earned a 5 in the AP Human Geography exam, which is my proudest academic achievement so far. I studied very hard for this exam. I loved both the course and my teacher, Mrs. Moran.
I am a member of the ASIA Club, Asian Student Association, Ricordia, KPOP Club, and Merion Mercy Music Theater. I am planning to start a new club for eSports, hoping to have fun, meet new people, and represent women who are underlooked in the eSports industry and community. I have a nice role in our upcoming spring musical. Rehearsals have begun, and we are having great fun learning our parts and our music. I cannot wait to perform for a live audience. Through the musical, I have the chance to make friends with freshmen and help them get acclimated to Merion Mercy’s environment and academics.
I would never have had the chance to experience all these things without the Howley Scholarship. I sincerely appreciate the help The Howley Foundation has provided because, without it, I would not have been able to afford to come to MMA. I would not have met my best friend, Sarah, nor would I have been able to learn so much about music, or to know these wonderful teachers. I am extremely grateful to The Howley Foundation for the chance to come to Merion Mercy and chart my own path.
Carolyn Pham ’24
Thank you for your generosity in supporting my education at Merion Mercy Academy. Merion was always my dream school, but I could not afford it without your help. I am honored to be able to take advantage of this scholarship. I can honestly say that I have taken advantage of every opportunity open to me. I work hard in all my classes and love to participate in clubs and activities that let me express my passions.
I participate in the French Club and Environmental Club. I was put in charge of the French Club, and this is a wonderful opportunity to learn about leadership. I am proud of myself for stepping out of my comfort zone. I have a great passion for singing, and I participate in Chorale, Liturgical Choir, and Gospel Choir. I love learning new music and singing techniques as I explore different types of genres and expand my singing styles. I am also inspired by the other choir members and their beautiful voices. I joined Tri-M Music Honor Society, where members have the opportunity to perform several hours of music-related service each year, including singing at Mass and our Christmas pageant, singing Christmas carols for the Sisters of Mercy, and even cleaning the handbells or organizing music sheets in the music room. These hours do not feel like work to me because I am fulfilled by helping others, especially with my love of music.
This junior year has been the hardest so far. Pre-Calculus and Physics require a great deal of effort. My teachers have been very understanding of these challenges, and they are happy to meet with me outside of class to practice the material with their help. I have also done what I can on my own to strengthen my understanding by watching many videos and reading articles. Even though the workload is heavy, I am enjoying my classes, especially AP Environmental Science. I am learning many valuable things especially about pollution and global warming, making me much more aware of the impact humans have on the environment. I love British Literature, largely due to my exceptional teacher, Ms. Mattera. She is incredibly well-read and well-spoken. After each class, I feel I have learned a lot more than what a 40-minute class time frame can hold.
With every passing year at Merion, I have grown more confident in expressing my opinions. I have learned to effectively and concisely communicate my thoughts. My academic work and my school activities have all greatly helped to mold my character. Service projects particularly inspire me to lend a hand and make meaningful connections with others. As part of the National Honor Society, I am constantly reminded to always work hard and to be kind by helping those in need. Merion has a special place in my heart, and I can wholeheartedly say it is my second home. I am extremely grateful that I can attend not just a prestigious school, but one that is nurturing and emphasizes community and inclusion. I thank you again for your generosity, and I will continue to take advantage of everything Merion has to offer.
Jonae Thomas ’24
With the scholarship opportunity that I have been given, I have learned so much about myself and the world, and I have truly grown into a young woman of Mercy. This year has been challenging academically. I am taking AP US History, AP Environmental Science, and Honors Precalculus, and the workload has increased significantly. While this is real, I have learned a great deal about the importance of time management and perseverance. I have taken on a leadership role in the Black Student Union. I work on Ricordia, our school newspaper, and I am on our track and field team. All this has shaped me into a more well-rounded, compassionate, and aware student.
As I am inching closer to college, I have been further appreciative of my experiences at Merion. I’ve had so much fun experiencing Harvest Moon, Red, Green, and Jingle Day, and my favorite—the Weenie Roast! These traditions are sources of great joy, as well as memories that will last a lifetime. I have strengthened close friendships and formed many new friend groups. These friends have been an incredible support system, constantly encouraging me to keep working hard and not give up. I am so grateful that Merion blessed me with these important relationships.
Many of the faculty have inspired me to be my best self, especially Mrs. Cahill, Señorita Nowlan, Mr. Mayer, and Ms. Adens. These teachers and staff have constantly been there for me, supporting and encouraging me both academically and personally. I am so thankful for the incredible gift of these teachers. All the Merion faculty truly embodies what it means to live Mercy. My time here at Merion has molded me into a woman of Mercy, and I am so excited to see what the future will bring. I extend great thanks to the Howley Foundation for the gift of a Merion Mercy education.
Ti’Yan Driggins ’23
The Howley Foundation has made all my dreams possible by giving me the funding to attend Merion Mercy Academy. Now in my last year at Merion, I am very proud to be here and to call myself a “Merion Girl.” We “Merion Girls” build strong bonds with our friends, each of whom comprise our outstanding sisterhood.
Here, I have built lifelong friendships through my academic life and through the many activities in which I have been able to participate. I belong to the Black Student Union, the Dance Team, the track and field team, the Self-care and Beauty Club, and the Pep Squad. I will forever cherish the memories made as I competed with my friends on track and field. I have grown tremendously as a person and as a friend to others as a result of being able to be a part of so many clubs and activities.
I will forever be grateful for The Howley Foundation for making this possible. My Merion Mercy education has provided excellent preparation for college. I am very excited about my college plans. I plan to pursue Mathematics, perhaps eventually becoming a teacher, a school counselor, or an accountant. During my time here, I have been able to cultivate my love for math as well as my love for helping people, and my career choices reflect that. Again, I thank The Howley Foundation for giving me the opportunity to thrive at Merion Mercy Academy and become the best person I could be. I will always be thankful for this amazing opportunity. In the years to come, I know I will always cherish my years here at Merion Mercy Academy.
Cecilia Lam ’23
I thank you for including me among the Merion Mercy students who have had the honor and privilege to be named a Howley Scholar of Achievement. I am incredibly grateful to the Howley Foundation because you have allowed me to attend Merion Mercy Academy. My time at Merion has changed my life for the better. This wonderful journey has led me to endless opportunities to learn about what I want to and need to know, as well as outstanding social opportunities enabling me to learn from others. Without the aid of this scholarship, I would not have been able to have such a great high school experience.
The Asian Student Association and ASIA Club provided an opportunity for me to express my culture. I also took on a leadership position in both these clubs. I founded and I am leading a new club at school, KPop Club. I learned how to do this by collaborating with other clubs at Merion to understand the structure and requirements of how various clubs work. I have found a passion for service and works of Mercy through my work on the Ministry Team and the National Honor Society. These experiences helped me to choose a college major and eventual career path in healthcare.
Thanks to my amazing education at Merion Mercy Academy, I have excelled in my academics. So far, I have been accepted at Temple University, Drexel University, and the University of Pennsylvania. I am proud to say that I will be attending the University of Pennsylvania for the next four years. I will be majoring in Health and Societies at the University of Pennsylvania and plan to become a physician’s assistant. I am incredibly grateful to all those who have helped me get to this point in my life—my teachers, my friends, and my family. None of this would be possible without the help of The Howley Foundation. I am still rather stunned that I was accepted into Penn. Coming from a low-income family, I never thought that I would have the chance to get such a stellar education at such a university. Without the Howley Foundation, I would not have this opportunity. For that, I am forever grateful.
Joi Lewis ’23
As a recipient of a Howley Scholarship, I am most grateful for the opportunities that have been bestowed upon me. I have been allowed to attend Merion Mercy and experience four years of amazing education, supported by wonderful teachers. Both Mrs. Restifo, my advisor, and Mrs. Pellicone, my Calculus teacher, have consistently supported and encouraged me. Both have pushed me toward achieving great things.
I am well prepared for my journey into college as I await decisions. I am interested in pursuing a career in finance or pharmaceutical science. I have applied to many colleges and hope to pursue my passion for achievement. I have high hopes and believe I have a great future ahead.
At Merion, I have made amazing friends and formed close bonds that I hope will last forever. My co-curricular activities have generated many strong friendships. For me, a key activity has been the Gender Sexuality Alliance. In this group, I have been able to understand my sexuality as well as learning how to be respectful to those who are different from me. The Dungeons and Dragons Club has encouraged me to explore my wildly expressive personality and to engage with different individuals in creative scenarios. The sisterhood at Merion Mercy has provided limitless opportunities to bond.
My experience here has been exceptional, and I am a little sad that it is coming to an end. I am honored and grateful to be named a Howley Scholar of Achievement. I want to thank you for enabling me to spend my high school years at Merion Mercy, which has proved to be a wonderful environment for me, helping me to understand myself and the world around me.
Shannon Pagan ’23
I am extremely thankful to The Howley Foundation and their generous support. My four years at Merion have been incredibly rewarding and creatively enriching. Even through the challenges of freshman year being cut short by COVID and sophomore year almost totally virtual, I have been blessed with an education that will carry with me through college and through life.
Art and music are my passions, and I have been fully able to learn, explore, and develop these interests. I participate in the Orchestra, Handbells, and the Tri-M Music Society, which is a great honor. I could not be more delighted with our art program and all that it has led me to achieve. I am a member of the National Art Honor Society, where we use our creative talents for social good. Working on stage crew, making contributions to our amazing theater productions, has been a true point of pride. My favorite courses include all of my art classes and my Ethics and Morality course. I was honored to be selected as one of the students to travel across the country for NAIS Student Diversity Leadership Conference. Mrs. Restifo, one of my faculty favorites, inspired me to take on challenges with confidence. Mrs. Boyd, my art teacher, has helped me grow immensely as an artist. She has encouraged me to pursue what I love in the future, which is art.
I have met the most wonderful people here at Merion Mercy, and I have learned so much from my friends. I will be sad to leave Merion, but I know I have great things ahead of me. While my college selection is still pending, I am sure I will study animation and art education. I hope to work in television animation and eventually become an art teacher. Merion Mercy has provided all the resources I need to make my dreams a reality, and I would not have that without The Howley Foundation. I could not be more grateful.
