Senior Signing Day Spotlights Achievements

Trenton, NJ – Foundation Academies today celebrated the Class of ’23 for their achievements so far, and their plans for the future during our annual “Senior Signing Day” event.

“Our scholars are making Trenton proud and proving that hard work pays off,” said Foundation Academies CEO Sheria McRae. “I look forward to staying in touch and cheering them on as they achieve new milestones.”

FA Senior Signing Day brings together our learning community — teachers, families, friends and supporters — to look back at scholars’ academic journeys, applaud their achievements, and encourage them to pursue their dreams. This year, the tradition included several FA alumni returning for a Senior Breakfast to share tips for continued success beyond high school.  

“Always strive to be elevating,” said Stockton University student Marissa Armstrong. “Surround yourself with those who have the same drive.” 

Foundation Academy Collegiate Class of 2023 includes more than 70 scholars living in Trenton. The Class already has achieved many goals — succeeding through high school years including virtual, hybrid and in-person instruction. About two dozen scholars are the first generation committed to college.

“These seniors have worked relentlessly through many obstacles to reach their goals,” said Collegiate Principal Isabel Goss. “I am very proud of who they are – and who they will become as they continue on their path to a purpose-filled life.” 

Graduating seniors have been accepted into colleges or universities including New Jersey Institute of Technology, Rutgers University, Rider University, Stockton University, Dallas College, University of Richmond, Kean University, and Mercer County Community College, among others. 

Three graduating seniors are entering military service: JanCarlo Corado and Emmanuel Morrissey are joining the US Marine Corps, and Lauren Colop is joining the US Air Force.

The Class of 2023 has received more than $9 million total in scholarship and awards from outside groups. Scholarship recipients include:

• Dylan Hernandez, Trade School Scholarship Award and The Smith Family Foundation
• Amy Sepulveda, College Board Big Futures Explorer Scholarship
• Jayda Tineo, Rice & Greens Investment Group Scholarship 
• Ashley Ortiz, Ellen Knowles Harcourt Scholarship

In addition, the Friends of Foundation Academies Knight Fund provides scholarships, persistence grants and emergency support to graduates as they navigate “to and through” college. To date, the fund has committed more than $250,000  to FA grads. The Class of 2023 Knight Fund Round Table Scholars include:

• Alejandro Aponte, University of Richmond
• Hafiza Malik, The College of New Jersey
• Marleny Rodrigues, Stockton University
• Deena Vicente, The College of New Jersey
• Xavier Smith, Rider University

The Ron Brady Scholarship recognizing a student who has demonstrated grit and resilience to work through obstacles and achieve goals was awarded to Jayda Tineo, who is pursuing degrees in psychology and sociology at Rider University.

Dylan Hernandez received The Artisan Award for a scholar who exemplifies persistence, passion and commitment to a trade or vocation. Dyan will be pursuing electrician training at Pennco Tech.

The Graig Weiss Alumni Changemaker Award recognizing an alum committed to a career serving the greater good was given to Siani Crowell, Class of ’16 who is a teacher at Foundation Academies; and JonBonae’ Shipman, Class of ’15, a member of the FA College & Career Advising Department. 

John Salvetta, director of FA College & Career Advising Department, thanked NJM Insurance and other sponsors, including AmeriHealth, CBIZ Borden Perlman, Hatfield Schwartz Law Group LLC, Dennis and Susan Walsingham, Mercer County Community College and Stockton University for stepping forward to support our scholars.

“It means so much for our seniors to know the entire community stands behind them as they take the next steps in their life journey,” Mr. Salvetta said. “Together, we can provide the resources they need to achieve their goals.”

To support FA scholars on their paths to purpose, make a gift to the Knight Fund.