2026 Whitman Freedom Team Scholarship Winners Announced
The Whitman Freedom Team is pleased to announce the winners of its essay contest. Seniors at Whitman-Regional High School addressed the theme of Love, Inclusion, and Trust.
1st Place: Kayla Dawson
Essay Title: “Celebrating Our Differences”
The first-place winner, Kayla Dawson, submitted “Celebrating Our Differences” spoke about the annual Unified Basketball game that brings together the entire school community including parents, students and faculty. It is a beautiful display of bonding, communication, and unity.
Kayla was awarded a $500 scholarship. She will attend Boston College where she will study nursing.
2nd Place: Brooke Steele
Essay Title: “The Ripple Effect of Kindness”
Brooke Steele wrote about her mother’s life-long example of kindness towards others and how it’s made her aware of how simple it is to make people feel joyful, included, and appreciated while inspiring them to do the same.
Brooke was awarded a $300 scholarship She will further her education at Babson College in September where she will study Business.
3rd Place: Gianna Ruggiero
Essay Title: “The Role of Young Voices in Change”
Gianna wrote how young voices can make a difference in three ways:
By speaking up: Use your voice to support, advocate for causes you feel passionate about. It may be in the role of a Student Advisory/Council Board member or expressing your opinion at a public meeting.
Service: Get involved in your community. Give back to your community. In every community there are many opportunities to volunteer, find one and get involved. It is what unifies a community.
Acceptance of others: She found that her involvement with Best Buddies promotes friendship between students with and without disabilities. It prepares young people for adulthood where acceptance cultivates a culture in which everyone feels valued. Belong strengthens and promotes unity and inclusion in our community.
Gianna was awarded $150 and will attend Boston College where she will study Finance.
The Whitman Freedom Team was happy to award scholarships to 3 outstanding graduates who we are certain will make their mark in the future.
Good Luck, Kayla, Brooke and Gianna!
