Announcing our 2024 Hydrocephalus Association Scholarship Recipients!

November 18, 2024

The Hydrocephalus Association (HA) is pleased to announce the 2024 Hydrocephalus Association Scholarship Award Recipients. We would like to thank everyone who applied for a scholarship and congratulate those of you who were selected this year. HA’s scholarship program was established in 1994 to provide financial assistance to capable and promising teens, young adults, and adults who live with the ongoing challenges and complexities of hydrocephalus.

Since the scholarship program was established, HA has awarded 266 scholarships to future leaders of our community. We are proud to honor these remarkable young adults. In addition to successfully managing their hydrocephalus, these students continue to excel in the classroom, volunteer and give back to help their local communities. They are an inspiration to us all, demonstrating that hydrocephalus does not stand in the way of pursuing one’s goals.

These thirteen scholarships are funded by:

Gerard Swartz Fudge Memorial Scholarship Fund
Baldus Family Scholarship in Memory Gerard Swartz Fudge Scholarship
Morris L. and Rebecca Ziskind Memorial Scholarship Fund
Anthony Abbene Scholarship Fund
Justin Scot Alston Memorial Scholarship Fund
Mario J. Tocco Hydrocephalus Foundation Scholarship Fund
Kate Finlayson Memorial Scholarship
Jacobsen Family Scholarship
Hydrocephalus Association Scholarship, which is provided by Erik and Lisa Chamberlain.

Our gratitude is extended to all the donors for their generosity and the Scholarship Committee for all their support and dedication.

Congratulations 2024 Scholarship Recipients!

Ashlei McGhee

Recipient of the Morris L. and Rebecca Ziskind Memorial Scholarships

Ashlei is enrolled at the University of Central Florida, where she is pursuing a Master’s degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders. She is determined to become a speech-language pathologist, with the ultimate goal of opening her own private practice serving both children and adults. Ashlei hopes to support others by offering accessible speech therapy and raising awareness about communication disorders. She also dreams of helping other individuals with disabilities through her non-profit. “I want to give back in a meaningful way by offering speech therapy to those who need it most, regardless of their financial situation.”

Born with cerebral palsy and hydrocephalus, Ashlei has faced significant challenges throughout her life. “Navigating life with cerebral palsy and hydrocephalus has shaped me in ways I never expected,” she shares. Early speech therapy gave her a voice, igniting a passion for helping others facing similar obstacles.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Ashlei dedicates her time to volunteering with organizations like Orange Ribbons for Jaime, and she actively supports others with disabilities. Her creative hobbies, such as painting, photography, and graphic design, bring her peace and joy, reflecting her passion for self-expression and helping others do the same.

Benjamin Bachmore

Recipient of the Baldus Family Scholarship in Memory of Gerard Swartz Fudge

Benjamin is enrolled at Virginia Tech, where he is working toward a Bachelor’s degree in neuroscience. Diagnosed with hydrocephalus in his teens due to an arachnoid cyst, Benjamin’s journey with this condition has helped to shape his passion for neurosciences and the medical field. “After undergoing three brain surgeries, I feel an extremely personal connection to the neurological field.”

Benjamin has been actively involved in the hydrocephalus community, participating in a WALK to End Hydrocephalus to raise awareness about the condition. Although he and his family were unable to attend the official WALK in Washington, D.C., they held a mini WALK in their local neighborhood, wearing hydrocephalus shirts and raising awareness through social media. He looks forward to participating in future events, including the WALK at the Lincoln Memorial, where he hopes to meet others who share his experiences with hydrocephalus.

Having been a swimmer for 12 years, Benjamin plans to continue his swimming career on a club team at the university he attends. Benjamin is a well-rounded individual who enjoys spending time with friends and family, reading, playing video games, writing, and even learning to play the piano. His leadership skills shine through his role as President of the National Honor Society (NHS) at his high school, and he actively contributes to his community by volunteering at his local church and lifeguarding at his neighborhood pool.

Brayden Locricchio

Recipient of the Gerard Swartz Fudge Memorial Scholarships

Brayden is attending the University of Wisconsin – Platteville where he is studying for a Bachelor’s degree in History. As a first-generation college student, Brayden takes his academics seriously. “I have been on the Dean’s List and I won Learner of the Year in 2023. I work really hard at school and I know how to get help when I need it so that I can be successful!” After graduating, Brayden hopes to one day work at a museum, like the Smithsonian, as an artifact director.

Brayden was diagnosed with congenital hydrocephalus due to chiari malformation. Living with hydrocephalus has shaped Brayden Locricchio’s life in profound ways, from memory struggles and anxiety in school to physical challenges like hand-eye coordination issues. In grade school, he faced bullying and exclusion, even from teachers, but persevered through speech therapy and academic difficulties. His first attempt at college was marked by a traumatic experience with a professor, yet Brayden continued to push forward. Attending Madison Area Technical College became a turning point, where therapy helped him manage social anxiety, embrace self-acceptance, and realize that seeking help is a strength. Through it all, he has emerged stronger, more resilient, and determined to succeed.

Brayden has been an active participant in the San Francisco WALK since 2017, where he has had the opportunity to meet others with hydrocephalus and make an impact. He also joins the Young Adults in their 20s virtual meeting. In Brayden’s free time he enjoys bowling in the bowling league he and his dad started, as well as spending time with his two dogs, Decker and Sasha.

DeAndre Oliver

Recipient of the Anthony Abbene Memorial Scholarships

DeAndre is enrolled at Pima Community College, where he is earning a degree in Nursing. His dream is to become a flight nurse or critical care nurse after graduation. “While in the hospital, it opened my eyes to the world of healthcare beyond Emergency Medical Services. My new passion is clear and focused now,” he shares. DeAndre’s desire to help others has been a lifelong passion, starting with his involvement in the NJROTC during high school, and later, joining the Pima JTED fire service program with the goal of becoming a firefighter for the city of Tucson.

Living with hydrocephalus has presented DeAndre with numerous challenges. Diagnosed at birth, he has undergone nearly 20 brain surgeries and most recently spent a month in the intensive care unit. “As I started getting older, my academics got better but my health did not,” he explains. Despite these hardships, DeAndre remains optimistic and resilient. “At the end of the day, I believe every hydrocephalus patient has endured an unimaginable issue that we have no choice but to take head on.”

DeAndre is also passionate about becoming more involved in the hydrocephalus community. While he hasn’t had the opportunity to participate in a local WALK yet, he looks forward to doing so. He has already made an impact through his participation in teen support group meetings and hydrocephalus advocacy efforts, speaking with congressmen about the importance of hydrocephalus awareness and support.

Grace McCombs

Recipient of the Hydrocephalus Association Fund Scholarship Supported by Erik & Lisa Chamberlain

Grace is completing a Master’s degree in Dance Education at Rutgers Mason Gross School of the Arts. They are a passionate dancer, artist, and educator with aspirations of becoming a dance teacher and choreographer. Alongside their love for movement, Grace enjoys teaching dance and working part-time as a lifeguard. Reflecting on their journey, Grace shares, “Hydrocephalus has shaped me in ways I could never have imagined. Despite the challenges, it has strengthened my resolve to pursue my passions, like dance and fitness, while navigating life with a shunt.” Grace is also an advocate for wellness, and their newfound love for fitness has inspired them to someday teach Pilates and yoga.

Grace was diagnosed with congenital hydrocephalus due to chiari malformation and has had five brain surgeries. In the hydrocephalus community, Grace has actively participated in several HA’s WALKs, most recently through HA’s virtual WALK program. They also attend a support group, finding comfort in connecting with others facing similar challenges. “Being part of GroupMe and the Young Adults in their 20s Facebook group has made me feel less alone in my journey. It’s amazing to be part of a community where everyone understands the ups and downs of living with this condition.”

One of Grace’s most touching experiences was meeting a young girl named Grace who also has hydrocephalus. “We met in the waiting room at my neurosurgeon’s office, and her mom was so excited to see a young adult with a shunt who was thriving,” Grace recalls. “That moment really hit home for me. I realized how important it is to be open about my condition and to show kids like her that they can succeed and pursue their dreams.”

Kayla Gray

Recipient of the Mario J. Tocco Hydrocephalus Foundation Scholarship

Kayla is pursuing a PhD in Nursing with a focus on healthcare innovation at Arizona State University. Her passion for transforming medical education drives her work, particularly in areas of patient safety and care quality. As the operations manager of Creighton University’s anatomy lab, she co-created the Knowledge Donor Program to train safer healthcare professionals and developed the Health Sciences Academy, a program that introduces high school students to healthcare careers through hands-on experience.

Diagnosed with hydrocephalus at age 15, Kayla’s personal experience has deeply influenced her academic and professional path. She reflects, “Hydrocephalus has been a constant presence in my life, but it’s given me more than it’s ever taken away.” Despite challenges like headaches and balance issues, Kayla has embraced her diagnosis, turning it into a driving force for her passion in healthcare education. She has also contributed to hydrocephalus awareness through fundraising, research, and public speaking, including as a guest speaker at the Columbia, South Carolina Hydrocephalus WALK.

Outside of her studies and professional work, Kayla enjoys hiking, exploring new trails, and acting, which helps her maintain a healthy work-life balance. She remains committed to mentoring students from underrepresented backgrounds, with a vision of creating a more diverse and inclusive healthcare workforce. Her long-term goal is to revolutionize healthcare education by focusing on safety, quality, and leadership development in medical training programs.

Kyleigh Morgan

Recipient of the Jacobsen Family Scholarship

Kyleigh is attending St. Lawrence College – Kingston, where she is working on a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing. Kyleigh’s academic aspirations are rooted in her love for the sciences, particularly medical sciences and biology, as she sees endless possibilities for discovery and advancement in these fields. Kyleigh’s career goal is to become a pediatric nurse practitioner. Her experiences with hydrocephalus have given her a profound understanding of what it means to face insurmountable challenges, and she wants to be a source of hope and trust for her future patients.

Hydrocephalus has undeniably shaped Kyleigh’s life, presenting both challenges and growth. Academically, she has had to adapt to the cognitive impacts of her condition, developing strategies to cope with working memory issues and concentration difficulties. Socially, her health has made her more reserved in sharing her condition with peers, but she has built strong relationships with her family, close friends, and medical professionals. Physically, the frequent shunt revisions and chronic pain have taken their toll, but her resilience and determination have helped her persevere.

Kyleigh’s involvement with HA has been a transformative experience. One of her most meaningful experiences was participating in HA’s Teen Hang Out through Zoom. “The fact that this group exists made me feel seen and I am very grateful.” Additionally, her written submission to HA was published as part of their 40th-anniversary fundraising campaign, giving her an outlet to share her story and advocate for increased awareness.

Kyleigh has a deep passion for music, having played the piano for over ten years, alongside two other instruments. She also enjoys writing, particularly journaling and personal essays, with one of her favorite works being a piece she submitted to HA. In her submission, she combined her love for writing and hydrocephalus advocacy, which brought her a sense of fulfillment. Volleyball has also been a significant part of Kyleigh’s life since she was ten, although recent health challenges have temporarily sidelined her from the sport. Despite this, she cherishes the camaraderie of playing with a team and the joy of working together toward shared goals.

Lily Adkins

Recipient of the Kate Finlayson Memorial Scholarship

Lily is enrolled at Dominican University earning a degree in Special Education. Her goal is to become a special education teacher and adaptive sports coach. Her goal became clear during her junior when she took a child development class where she learned how to adapt her lesson plans for a student who was struggling. “I know what it is like to be Sonny. There have been many times my learning differences have led to exclusion. Not only does it hurt me socially, it also has limited my access to opportunities.”

Acquiring hydrocephalus from a brain tumor as a child, Lily has faced numerous challenges, including two shunt failures, ataxia, and right-side weakness. Despite these obstacles, she found her passion for rowing, becoming a competitive pararower. After being excluded from her high school team post-surgery, she joined South Jersey Rowing Club, where she thrived. “I wasn’t supposed to walk, let alone play sports, but rowing showed me that I could not only keep up—I could excel.”

In addition to her athletic pursuits, Lily has dedicated herself to raising awareness about childhood cancer and hydrocephalus. She has shared her story at public events, mentored younger children facing similar health challenges, and participated in fundraising for cancer research through Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation. “Giving back has given me so much. I never plan to stop,” she says of her community service work, which includes volunteering for Cathedral Kitchen in Camden, NJ, and her church.

Elizabeth “Lizzie” Armor

Recipient of the Anthony Abbene Memorial Scholarships

Lizzie is attending the University of Michigan, where she plans to study biomedical engineering. She aims to advance medical technology and improve the lives of patients, particularly those with hydrocephalus. She hopes to develop safer, more reliable medical devices that will provide comfort and confidence to others. “When I was finally old enough to understand the diagnosis I received when I was two months old, I knew what I wanted to spend my life doing.” Lizzie is eager to immerse herself in academic challenges and make a meaningful impact through her studies and future career.

Diagnosed with hydrocephalus as an infant, Lizzie initially struggled with feelings of isolation and fear surrounding her condition. It wasn’t until recently that she began embracing her diagnosis and seeking ways to connect with the hydrocephalus community. Lizzie is now committed to raising awareness and helping others with similar experiences, saying, “I seek to meet others who have had similar experiences and hear how hydrocephalus affected them.”

Outside of her academic and advocacy work, Lizzie is passionate about sports and staying active. She has played varsity soccer, basketball, and golf at in high school. In addition to athletics, she enjoys volunteering through clubs like NHS and DECA, where she dedicates her time to giving back to her community. In her free time, Lizzie loves hanging out with friends and engaging in meaningful activities around town.

Parker Shubin

Recipient of the Gerard Swartz Fudge Memorial Scholarships

Parker is enrolled at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he intends to build a career in neurosciences. He hopes to become a pediatric neuro-oncologist, inspired by his own experiences with hydrocephalus and the medical professionals who have guided him through his journey. “This is a hefty ambition; however, I truly believe that I can do it as I have faced much adversity in my life and persevered.” Parker is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of children facing similar challenges, hoping to provide the same support he received during his treatments.

Diagnosed with hydrocephalus due to a brain tumor, Parker has faced numerous health challenges throughout his life. This condition has significantly shaped his educational goals and career aspirations, motivating him to excel in his studies while advocating for awareness. He actively participates in the Cancer Awareness Club, where he shares his story. Parker believes in the power of community and support, stating, “I want to empower others to navigate their own challenges.” His involvement in the Children’s Brain Tumor Foundation has further connected him with others who understand his experiences, fostering a sense of belonging.

Outside of his academic pursuits, Parker enjoys a variety of hobbies. He serves as a tutor for Spanish-speaking immigrants, where he leverages his language skills to assist them in learning English and navigating their education. At home, Parker loves cooking traditional Filipino dishes with his mom, such as adobo, pancit, and lumpia, which helps him stay connected to his heritage. Parker’s diverse interests and community involvement reflect his dedication to helping others while fostering personal growth and connection.

Tai Parsley

Recipient of the Justin Scot Alston Memorial Scholarship

Tai is a sophomore at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, majoring in Political Science with a concentration in International and Comparative Studies. His academic interests revolve around understanding the intricacies of U.S. foreign policy and international relations. His ambition includes securing internships with governmental or non-governmental organizations, particularly in the Department of State or similar entities that engage in meaningful international efforts. Ultimately, Tai aspires to pursue a master’s degree and potentially a doctorate to deepen his understanding of political science and enact positive changes globally.

Born with hydrocephalus and spina bifida, Tai’s journey has been marked by resilience and determination. He underwent life-saving surgery in infancy and was later adopted from a large orphanage in Inner Mongolia. Despite his physical and learning disabilities, Tai has excelled academically, maintaining a near-perfect GPA throughout high school and continuing this success into college. His experiences have shaped his perspective, instilling in him a strong desire to make a difference in the world. Tai attributes his perseverance to the unwavering support of his family, teachers, and mentors, emphasizing the importance of community in overcoming challenges associated with hydrocephalus.

Beyond academics, Tai is an active member of his community, participating in various volunteer activities and adaptive sports. He enjoys adventurous outings with his large family, fostering a love for travel and cultural exploration. Tai engages in community service through the Beta Club and has also benefited from HA’s monthly virtual meetings for teens, where he connected with others facing similar challenges. His interests include adaptive sports like water skiing and rock climbing, which he believes have helped him develop compassion for others with disabilities and those from diverse backgrounds. Tai’s commitment to volunteering and advocacy reflects his desire to uplift those around him, emphasizing his belief in the power of community and servitude.

“I try not to let hydrocephalus get in the way for me to achieve great things and to be able to make a difference in my community, state, country, and world. I pride myself on my ability to bring people together rather than tear them apart.”

Alyssa Hatfield

Recipient of the Morris L. and Rebecca Ziskind Memorial Scholarships

Alyssa is passionate about making a positive impact on others and intends to become a speech and language therapist. She is attending Harding University majoring in communication sciences and disorders, with the goal of ultimately returning to her hometown to serve as a speech therapist in her school district. Alyssa has shadowed a speech therapist and feels a strong calling to support children in her community, hoping to use her experiences to help them thrive.

Hydrocephalus has been a part of Alyssa’s life since birth, affecting her from the very start. Although she has faced challenges, including multiple surgeries and bullying during her school years, she has emerged with a resilient spirit. Alyssa has learned to embrace her journey and is proud of her story, using it to inspire others. Through her experiences, she has developed a deep understanding of the importance of support and connection, valuing the friendships she has forged with others who share similar challenges.

In addition to her academic and career aspirations, Alyssa enjoys a busy life filled with sports and extracurricular activities. As the president of the Future Farmers of America (FFA) at her high school, she has developed friendships and engaged in various projects, such as raising dairy beef calves and participating in community service. Outside of school, Alyssa loves spending time with family, friends, and her three dogs, as well as visiting coffee shops, shopping, and exploring the great outdoors. Her adventurous spirit and sociable nature drive her to seek fun experiences, whether it’s trying new activities or enjoying time with loved ones.

“There have been many amazing people in my life that have made a huge impact and I want to be that person for others. As a result, helping people is my passion, my dream is to positively impact any and all the people I can.”

Elena Bowles

Recipient of the Kate Finlayson Memorial Scholarship

Elena is enrolled at Stevenson University majoring in biochemistry. She is dedicated to pursuing a career in healthcare as a physician assistant (PA), with a focus on neurosurgery. Inspired by her own experiences with hydrocephalus, she aims to bring comfort and expert care to others facing medical challenges. This path was shaped by a meaningful interaction with a PA during a recent surgery, sparking her desire to help others feel safe and supported. “She gave me a sense of comfort at a time of chaos. I want to have an impact on others and their lives as she did on me.”

Diagnosed with hydrocephalus at six months old, Elena has faced countless challenges, from multiple surgeries to the constant fear of complications. Every headache or flu brought an underlying worry of shunt failure, creating an invisible weight she carried through her school years. Navigating her condition often meant keeping her struggles private, even from friends, out of fear of being seen as different. Yet, through these hurdles, Elena’s resilience only strengthened, sharing “I knew these medical obstacles would make me a stronger person when faced with challenges in the future.”

Elena has been an actively involved with the Hydrocephalus Association (HA), having participated in the Washington, DC WALK for 13 years, even giving the opening ceremonies speech two years ago. She has also shared her story publicly through HA’s public service announcements (PSAs), and participating on a panel atHA’s Education Day. Her passion for advocacy continues to grow everyday, driving her commitment to making a difference.

Congratulations to all of our Awardees and Finalists!
You inspire us all!

2024 Hydrocephalus Association Scholarship Finalists

Kaleigh Beck	Andrew DiVita	Sophie Keene	Reyion Roberson
Robert Bell	Grace Ebert	Honora LaRock	Natalie Samara
Reece Benedict	Ashley Echeverria	Dalila Mattie	Sierra Scott-Russell
Paige Boyer	Grace Fanucchi	Cody McCoulskey	Kenna Selzer
Na’Ni Caliste Jr.	Silas Frandy	Scotty Mcleod	Dylan Sheehan
Antonella Caranci	Madeleine Golden	Jayla Miller	Joseph Shepherd, Jr
Micah Coffin	Cairo Gordon-Somers-Archer	Haven Morgan	Alia Smith
Ava Crabtree	Nicole Guitierrez	Sarah Murphree	Abby Van Den Heuvel
Cole Darnold	Maggie Hegedus	Emily Murray	Riley Vatran
Noah Delcid	Carter Hillis	Mariah O’Connor	Otomilver Vetnura-Lopez
Hunter Dely	Hannah Inman	Alida Paul	Lydia West
Carly DelMartino	Nya Johnson	Seth Peters	Rachael Young
Dakota Dickerson	Imonni Jones	Andrew Rico