DERBY, CT — Quinlan Gray, a Derby High School senior, received a SCASA Memorial Scholarship at a special luncheon held May 2 at La Bella Vista in Waterbury.
According to a news release provided by Derby Public Schools, these memorial scholarships are in honor of former Hamden Superintendent Alida Begina and former East Haven Superintendent Martin DeFelice Jr.
The scholarship is awarded to students who intend to major in education and work in K-12 public education, who have demonstrated involvement in the education field such as tutoring, peer advising, student teacher club, etc., who has demonstrated high academic achievement of a G.P.A. of at least 3.0 and who is a student of high moral character, according to the district.
“We are incredibly proud of Quinlan for being selected as this year’s recipient of the SCASA Scholarship Award,” Superintendent of Schools Matthew Conway Jr. said in a news release. “Quinlan embodies the leadership, dedication, academic excellence and the grind and grit that this award represents. Her decision to pursue a career in education is both inspiring and a testament to her commitment to making a difference in the lives of others. We are excited to see her future unfold and know she will be a powerful force for good in the classroom and beyond.”
Gray ranks fifth in her class and has embraced a rigorous course load, including five AP classes. She was a member of the district’s U.S. legal class, which competed in a mock trial competition in Bridgeport Superior Court.
Beyond academics, Gray is a strong student-leader and advocate. She is a two-year captain of the varsity volleyball team and played basketball, cross-country, indoor and outdoor track, according to the district.
As a member of the National Honor Society and student council, Gray has spearheaded fundraisers, organized a city-wide cleanup, volunteered at local shelters and co-chaired a youth volleyball clinic for middle school students.
Gray is a founding member of the Rotary Interact Club and has represented Derby High School at the American Legion Girls State and UConn’s Summer LEAD Program, according to the district.
“Quinlan Gray embodies a unique blend of dedication, resilience, honesty and compassion,” Jennifer Ostrosky, a guidance counselor at Derby High School, said in a news release. “As a natural leader and unwavering supporter, she is driven by a deep desire to learn and a commitment to making a lasting, positive impact on her school community.”
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