NESPA scholarship winners announced

Each year Neshaminy Educational Support Professional Association (NESPA) awards high school seniors (whose parent is a NESPA member) with funds to be used toward continuing their education.

NESPA is a group of dedicated, reliable, and caring individuals within the Neshaminy community. This year, NESPA was able to present this award to three recipients: Christopher Pienkowski, Kelly Groves, and Olivia Lobecker.

“As a cancer survivor and future Animation and Special Effects student at Drexel University, I am immensely grateful to NESPA for the generous scholarship they provided me,” said Christopher Pienkowski, a graduating senior from MaST Community Charter School, “and I cannot express enough how pivotal this financial support is for my journey ahead. The battle against cancer showed me firsthand the profound impact of loneliness, motivating me to pursue a career that aims to support others in similar struggles. With the aid of this scholarship, I am one step closer to achieving my goal of making a positive difference in the lives of those facing mental health issues, illness, and isolation. NESPA’s contribution not only aides my education but fuels my passion for giving back to a community that needs empathy and understanding. Thank you, NESPA, for believing in my aspirations and supporting me in turning adversity into a force for good”.

Kelly Groves, a senior at Neshaminy High School, added, “I am supremely honored and incredibly grateful to have received the NESPA Scholarship. My mother is a staff nurse at Albert Schweitzer Elementary School and a proud NESPA member. During my time at Neshaminy High School, I have been fortunate to be a member of the cheer team for all four years. I am also currently the manager of the Varsity Softball Team. Additionally, I have been afforded the opportunity of dual enrollment at Bucks County Community College with Neshaminy High School and I am also a member of the National Honor Society. After graduation, I am considering joining the army ROTC program while attending the University of Tampa. As a highly involved and proud Neshaminy student, I genuinely appreciate this recognition and the support this scholarship will provide with my education.”

Olivia Lobecker, a senior at Neshaminy High School enjoys being involved in a variety of district activities.

Olivia is a member of the National Honor Society, participates in Choir, Drama, Varsity Field Hockey as well as Track and Field.
At an early age, Olivia was diagnosed with epilepsy, a disability that never became a handicap to her.

Olivia was determined to try any activity that interested her. She participated in dance, gymnastics, travel soccer, drama, singing and Girl Scouts before deciding to focus on Field Hockey, running and choir. As well as participating in Neshaminy’s Track and Field program, Olivia also runs 5K’s, 10K’s.

Presenting these scholarships is just one way that NESPA fulfills its commitment everyday by working together as a team for their students, parents, and in the interest of the Neshaminy community. For more information about NESPA, contact margienespa@yahoo.com.

PHOTO CAP:

1. From left, NESPA President Nicole Schultz, scholarship winner Christopher Pienkowski, and NESPA Corresponding Secretary, Margie McCurdy
2. Scholarship winner Kelly Groves (left) and NESPA President Nicole Schultz
3. Scholarship winner Olivia Lobecker (left) and NESPA Corresponding Secretary Margie McCurdy