Hopes, Dreams, Hard Work, and Bright Futures for Lowell High School Scholars

Ask Lowell High School’s newest graduates about their plans for college, and several themes quickly emerge.

They couldn’t be taking this next step without financial assistance. They are deeply grateful to the generous donors who make scholarships possible. They appreciate having their hard work recognized. And they are excited about the opportunities that lie ahead.

Those themes were echoed during the Lowell High School Scholarship Evaluators Appreciation Dinner on May 28, where volunteers were recognized for contributing more than 700 hours reviewing scholarship applications. Their dedication resulted in 277 students receiving a combined $702,251 from 431 scholarship funds during Honors Night 2026.

Guests at the dinner also heard firsthand from three outstanding graduates whose lives have been changed by scholarship support.

“The immediate impact of receiving a healthcare scholarship is incredible and life-changing,” said Nathan Julia, a Carney Medalist* who will attend the University of Pennsylvania as a biology major on a pre-dental track after also earning acceptances to Dartmouth and Johns Hopkins. “It recognized my hard work and validated what I want to do. The donors are gracious with their time, effort, and generosity. Their support eases the financial burden and allows students to focus on achieving their goals.”

For graduating seniors, an invitation to Honors Night means they will receive at least one scholarship—but exactly which one remains a surprise until the ceremony.

Seated among 277 classmates, students anxiously wait as award after award is announced. As the evening progresses, many wonder if their names have been overlooked. Then, one by one, each recipient is recognized. By the end of the two-hour celebration, every invited student leaves knowing that years of hard work have been acknowledged and rewarded.

Even the rehearsal the day before becomes part of the excitement. Students practice their walk across the stage, review the seating chart, and hear one instruction repeated above all others: Don’t open your scholarship envelope until after the ceremony.

Of course, curiosity often wins.

“We hold the envelope up to the light and can usually see the award amount,” admitted Rachel Ngene, Lowell High School’s Class President, who will attend UMass

Amherst to study biology on a pre-med track with the goal of becoming an OB/GYN. “It’s so exciting. When I shared my scholarship letter with my family afterward, my mother was crying. I want the donors to know they made my night—and they made a difference in my life. I’m so grateful.”

Students also describe the scholarship application itself as a meaningful exercise in reflection. Applicants compile academic transcripts, extracurricular activities, athletics, employment history, volunteer service, financial information, and a personal essay that allows evaluators to understand the person behind the application.

Naung Naung Lay is the recipient of the prestigious Paul Tsongas Scholarship.** The application effort was well worth it.

“My advice is to apply for everything,” he said. “Nothing ventured, nothing gained. The application automatically matches you with scholarships based on your qualifications. I never expected to receive the Tsongas Scholarship. I believe my commitment to community service and volunteerism, much like Congressman Tsongas’ dedication to serving others, helped make me a strong candidate. I hope to serve my community as he did.”

Although each student’s journey is unique, they all shared the same message: receiving a scholarship is about far more than financial assistance. It is an affirmation that someone they have never met believes in their potential and is willing to invest in their future.

For these students, that vote of confidence is every bit as meaningful as the financial support itself.

If you would like to help future Lowell High School graduates pursue their educational dreams by establishing a legacy scholarship fund, visit the Greater Lowell Community Foundation scholarship page at https://www.glcfoundation.org/scholarships/start-a-scholarship-fund/or contact Jay Linnehan or Barbara Dunsford at 978-970-1600.

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*Carney Medals are awarded annually to the top three female and top three male academic students at Lowell High School.

**The Paul Tsongas Scholarship is a prestigious merit-based award covering full tuition, fees, room, and board for four years.