The Sterling Heights Area Community Foundation, in partnership with eight other organizations, awarded a sum of $19,000 in scholarships to a dozen students from the Sterling Heights and Macomb County areas. The funds were distributed during a special City Council meeting yesterday. This latest round of scholarships continues the Foundation's 27-year tradition of supporting local youths in their pursuit of higher education and vocational training, according to a recent announcement.
Since its inaugural program in 1999, the Foundation has helped 558 students, with the 2025 awards bringing their total contributions to $544,000. Amongst the partners who awarded scholarships this year were BAE Systems, General Dynamics Land Systems, Mandziuk & Son, Mayor Richard J. Notte Scholarship for Public Service, and others. Each scholarship reflects a commitment to fostering educational growth in areas ranging from STEM disciplines to vocational education, public service, and beyond. Hao Do, a remarkable student with a stellar 4.5 GPA, is one beneficiary, earning a $1,000 scholarship from BAE Systems for his upcoming computer science studies at the University of Michigan.
Students like Parker Johnston of Stevenson High School were recognized for their academic and extracurricular achievements — Parker, a participant in First Robotics and student government, received a $2,000 scholarship from General Dynamics Land Systems for his future studies in engineering at Kettering University. Isabella Nihem's dedicated path to becoming a Veterinary Technician secured her the Mandziuk & Son Alex J. Meisel Scholarship for Vocational Education, paving the way for further study after her impressive work as a Veterinary Assistant.
"The Foundation and the community are fortunate to have individuals and companies like our scholarship partners come forward annually and make a difference in the lives of so many outstanding students by helping them pursue their education and professional goals," said Karl G. Oskoian, Executive Director and President Emeritus of the Sterling Heights Area Community Foundation, highlighting the impact of these community-driven scholarships. With support from the Selfridge Air National Guard Base Community Council, Nathan Farley, for instance, will continue his journey at Michigan State University in the Air Force R.O.T.C., clearly demonstrating the broad reach of these awards.
The Foundation's own awards went to ambitious students such as Klaudia Brakoniecki and Eemi Toma, each with career goals centered on public service — Klaudia aiming to serve in law enforcement while Eemi focuses on a future in law. Their scholarships not only aid in lessening the financial burden of college education but also invest in future local leaders and professionals. Similarly, Timothy Newsome's dedication to volunteering and academic excellence was recognized by the Wujek Calcaterra and Sons Scholarship, supporting his next steps toward a Mechanical Engineering degree.
As the City of Sterling Heights continues its efforts to support education, the 2025 Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to students pursuing their academic goals. This year’s recipients join a growing number of individuals who have received scholarships as part of the city’s ongoing educational initiatives.
