Scholarships are at the heart of our support for underserved communities.
Graduation season offers us a chance to check in with former Domenica Scholars. Every spring, we see how students have leveraged the high quality high school education they received through the Domenica Scholarship into great achievements in college and beyond!
Here are examples from the scholarship class of 2020, now the college class of 2026. We are so proud of them!
Aliyah Rojas, who attended Camden Catholic as a Domenica Scholar, just graduated Saint Joseph’s University with a degree in criminal justice and a focus on faith-justice. She is a long-time volunteer at LUCY Outreach (a fellow grantee!) where she continues to support and connect with Camden’s youth. Aliyah credits her scholarship with motivating her to work hard, knowing someone was willing to invest in her future. She is currently studying for the LSAT with plans to attend law school in the fall of 2027.
Daisy Pina just graduated from Saint Joseph’s University where she studied sociology. She plans to take a gap year to work in both a prison and a hospital as she explores which field interests her the most. Daisy comes from a legacy of scholars, as both her older and young siblings received Domenica scholarships to Camden Catholic. After her gap year, she plans to get her masters in social work.
Jada Thach is enrolled in a five year, three co-op program at Drexel University where she studies biological sciences with a minor in criminal justice. She is set to complete her degree in the spring of 2027 where she’ll then go onto a career in forensic science or clinical research. Jada completed three internships while at Drexel and credits this hands-on experience with preparing her for the work-field. In her spare time, she is an avid reader and loves a good thriller!
Julieyanna Scott just graduated from Moore College of Art & Design with a bachelor of arts degree in art education and a minor in fine art. She is an mixed media artist and looks forward to sharing her craft with her future students. As a new mother, Julieyanna is a shining example to her child of what is possible with hard work and determination. With a strong foundation of faith, Julieyanna tells us “God has plans for me, and I am so proud of myself to have continued to walk in his guidance.”
Nannsi Villa received a degree in criminal justice from Saint Joseph’s University. During her time on Hawk Hill, she received her certification in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and developed a deep love for the social sciences. Like many Domenica Scholars, this is a legacy for the Villa family. Nannsi’s older and younger sisters also received scholarships to attend Paul VI High School! Keep soaring!
Taina Leyba graduated from Montclair State University with a degree in social media & public relations and a minor in international studies. She plans to work for an agency to create campaigns for products and companies she is passionate about. While at Montclair, Taina studied abroad in Austria. The experience proved invaluable – Taina telling us it pushed her out of her comfort zone and gave a global perspective that continues to influence her personal and professional goals.