May 24, 2024

Cleveland, Ohio – The Junior League of Cleveland (JLC) is delighted to announce the recipients of its 2024 scholarships, awarded at our Annual Meeting held on May 23, 2024. This year, JLC awarded $13,000 in scholarships to four outstanding young women, each demonstrating tenacity and commitment to completing their education after interruption.

The recipients of the 2024 JLC Scholarships are:

1. Hannah Sankan – $5000 Scholarship

Hannah earned her GED in 2023 and is now working towards a double degree in Human Services and Non-Profit Management. Despite facing substantial hurdles, including being in the foster care system, she remains determined to graduate. Furthermore, she plans to pursue a Master’s in Counseling to further her ability to assist her calling to the homeless community.

2. Heaven Young – $4000 Scholarship

Heaven is a mother of twins who has graduated from the foster care system. She is pursuing a dual degree in Finance and Entrepreneurship at John Carroll University. Her recommender emphasized her journey from starting as an intern at her current job to progressing up the ranks due to her dedication and outstanding work ethic. Despite facing adversity, Heaven remains steadfast in her commitment to completing her bachelor’s degree.

3. Sydney Darton – $2000 Scholarship

Sydney is on a path toward a social work career, inspired by her own upbringing which was characterized by her parents’ struggles. Despite encountering obstacles, she has completed an associate degree and is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree at Cleveland State University. Her recommender highlighted Sydney’s standout qualities: initiative, a keen desire to learn, and a compassionate approach to client care.

4. Naomi Kuran – $2000 Scholarship

After aging out of foster care, Naomi developed an interest in law despite facing academic challenges. She successfully transitioned into a career path aligned with her purpose through college resources and vocational training. She’ll be attending Cleveland State University this fall.  Her recommender noted that Naomi embodies determination, demonstrating perseverance in her pursuits. Despite facing barriers beyond her control, she has diligently worked to create a better life for herself and her loved ones.

The Junior League of Cleveland is proud to support these young women as they embark on their higher education journeys. The JLC Scholarship Program is dedicated to empowering the next generation of female leaders by providing financial assistance to those who have experienced an interruption in their education and are now ready to complete their degrees with a special focus on those who have graduated from the foster care system.

For more information about the JLC Scholarship Program or to learn how you can support the Junior League of Cleveland, please visit our website at www.jlcleveland.org or contact us at info@jlcleveland.org.

Scholarship Contact:

Pamela Radisek, Scholarship Chair, Junior League of Cleveland
pamelaradisek@gmail.com

Media Contact:

Lisa Mayhugh, Communications Director, Junior League of Cleveland

Communications@jlcleveland.org