We'd like to congratulate Melody Madi, the 2011-2012 Emily Marie Benson Memorial Scholarship recipient!
Biography of Melody Madi:
Before beginning my middle school and high school years, my father passed away suddenly of a heart attack in 2004. This was a tragic event yet served as a positive foundation of who I am today. After that encounter, I realized my faith was real and began my walk with my Savior, an eternal relationship that would guide me throughout the many trials and obstacles to come. The month before my seventh grade year, I had stomach flu symptoms for several weeks accompanied by a fever, and missed my first few days of school that year. Many doctor visits later, I was sent to a gastroenterologist where several tests were done to me, one of them being a colonoscopy. The colonoscopy is what showed the doctor I had Crohn's Disease. Since then, I have been on various medications and currently am in remission, taking around eight pills daily with an infusion every seven weeks. A few years later, after graduating Middle School, my mother remarried a man who lived in Phoenix, Arizona. I had never moved before, and though I was leaving all my friends since childhood hehind, I was ready for adventure and change. I consider my family the modem-day "Brady Bunch," as I have two siblings of my own, as well as four step-siblings, all of which are married. I have thoroughly enjoyed and embraced my past four years in Phoenix at Shadow Mountain High School, participating in Marching Band, Choir, Drama, four Musical productions, National Honors Society, and Spanish Honors Society. In every activity and commitment during my high school years, I have developed great relationships and become more outgoing and energetic, as these activities demand such changes. I also have been active at my downtown, urban church, Roosevelt Community Church serving the downtown community, claiming its members as my own family. Children have always been a great passion of mine, and I am excited and waiting in anticipation for my first day of teaching Elementary Education.
2010-2011 Scholarship Recipient
Ivory Duncan
"I have been through a lot in my 30 years, but I refuse to let any of my short comings stand in my way, and in the end I plan to keep on breaking boundaries and to keep on reaching for the stars."
2009-2010 Scholarship Recipient
Reilly Sehl
"I can't thank Team Emily enough for their wonderful generosity. I have worked hard to be the best that I can be, and this scholarship will allow me to pursue my dreams. You have given me a huge opportunity to reach my goal of being a marine biologist, and I feel very honored for your generosity. Thank you a million times."
2008-2009 Scholarship Recipient
Judy Travis
"I am extremely honored to have been chosen as a recipient for the 2008-2009 scholarship. Thank you so very much for helping me to be able to continue to strive for my dreams to become a special education teacher. ... I hope to be an inspiration to others including those with a special need; just like Emily was to your lives. Thanks a million plus more for this scholarship."
2007-2008 Scholarship Recipient
Caitlin R. Peterson
"Caitlin defines the soul of the scholarship by her dedication to make the lives of others challenged with Diabetes easier," quotes Valerie.
Caitlin's studies at NAU are focused on Diabetes education. She is involved in the community in several volunteer organizations and was born and raised in Flagstaff.
2006-2007 Scholarship Recipient
Paul Baze
“Paul exemplifies the values and the core of the Emily’s scholarship” quotes Valerie. “He has shown unparalleled drive and determination while maintaining such a positive attitude.”
2005-2006 Scholarship Recipient
Corinne Amber Perez
Corinne Perez is a wonderful young woman with lots of drive and determination. She has a sparkle in her eye and we are convinced that she will be making the most of the new opportunities in her life.
A letter from Corinne:
Dear Scholarship Donors,
It is such an honor to be selected as the 2005-2006 scholarship recipient. Words cannot express how grateful I am to all of you. The money received will really help me out financially as I pursue a career in speech pathology. Thanks again, from the bottom of my heart.
