WEST CHESTER, PA — The Bonnie Friedman Scholarship Fund is commemorating the remarkable life and lasting impact of Bonnie Friedman, a beloved educator in the Downingtown School District for 22 years. Following her retirement, Bonnie’s passion for teaching led her to become a tutor in the Volunteer English Program (VEP) and ultimately serve on the organization’s board. Her tireless dedication extended far beyond the classroom, touching the lives of students from diverse backgrounds.
As a VEP tutor, Bonnie worked with students from Japan, Cambodia, Turkey, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. She quickly discovered that her role went beyond teaching language skills; she became a mentor and a cherished member of their support system. One of her exceptional students, Bijou, arrived in the United States just days after the tragic events of 9/11. With Bonnie’s guidance, Bijou not only achieved academic success but also flourished personally.
To honor Bonnie Friedman’s legacy and the profound impact she had on the lives of students, the Bonnie Friedman Scholarship Fund was established in August 2022. The scholarship is awarded annually, for four years, to a deserving senior at Downingtown East or West High School pursuing an education degree. The selection is based on financial need, ensuring that promising students receive the support they require to pursue their educational aspirations.
Isabella Terra was awarded the 2023 scholarship. It will include a $20,000 scholarship over the course of four years. Isabella graduated from Downingtown West High School and will be studying Elementary Education at Stevenson University in the fall.
Contributions to the Bonnie Friedman Scholarship Fund in her memory are warmly welcomed. By donating to the fund, individuals and organizations can play an active role in empowering future educators and continuing Bonnie’s vision of creating a nurturing and inclusive learning environment. To learn more about the Bonnie Friedman Scholarship Fund or to make a contribution, please visit https://chescocf.org/bonnie-friedman-scholarship-fund/.
For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.