The Boomer Esiason Foundation’s General Academic Scholarships assist CF patients pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees. Grants are awarded quarterly on the basis of demonstrated need and academic accomplishment. They are made directly to the academic institution to assist in covering the cost of tuition and fees. This scholarship is for one year only.
The BEF Scholarship Program committee considers the applicant’s scholastic ability, character, leadership potential, service to the community and need for financial assistance. Once candidates have been selected as semi-finalists, they will be granted a phone interview with a committee member.
Kelsie Jeffords, of Boudler, Colorado, was chosen as a recipient for her dedication to both her school work and her intense dedication to never allow cystic fibrosis to prevent her from reaching all of her goals.
Kiersten Cash, of Winter Haven, Florida, has her sights set high for her future, as she plans to double major in Political Science and Economics while minoring in Public Leadership. Eventually, Cash plans to attend law school and become an organ donor advocate.
Angela DeStasio, of Florence, New Jersey, uses her future career in dance as a way to push through the difficult days of her disease, stay physically fit, and is known to say, “I like to say that I started dancing to live, but now I live to dance.”
Caleb Mootispaw, of Greenfield, Ohio, has an athletic scholarship to Ashbury University, where he plans to continue his track and field career while excelling in the classroom and staying compliant with all of his treatments.
Matthew Kraus, of Shelby Township, Michigan, is a junior in the Stephen M. Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, one of the top ten undergraduate business schools in the country. He attributes all of his success to his commitment to his health and CF treatments throughout his entire life.
Raphaul Blitz, of Mulvame, Kansas, is one of nine siblings. He has already earned his Associate’s degree in Creative Writing and is currently working to earn his Bachelor’s degree in Film and Media. His main goals are to be able to tell stories, entertain, and inspire.