In a heartwarming celebration of selflessness, eight exceptional high school students from across New Hampshire have been awarded scholarships for their remarkable commitment to volunteerism. These young individuals have gone above and beyond to make a tangible difference in their communities and schools, embodying the spirit of altruism and compassion. Along with these eight, four more scholarships will be awarded this year.

The Primary Bank Young Hero Scholarship is a monthly award that recognizes the outstanding efforts of young New Hampshire residents who have shown a commitment to serving others. This program shines a spotlight on the remarkable stories of these students who have become shining stars in their communities. The Scholarship not only supports these students in their educational journey but also encourages others to engage in acts of kindness and service. The recipients are proof that small actions can lead to big impacts, and their stories serve as an inspiration to us all.

These recipients have all demonstrated an extraordinary level of dedication to their communities, utilizing their talents and passions to create positive change. From organizing food drives to tutoring fellow students, their efforts have not only left a lasting impact but have also inspired those around them. These young recipients have worked tirelessly for their causes and here is a glimpse at some of their accomplishments.

This program was developed to promote volunteerism, and to highlight and recognize community service in New Hampshire’s youth. The scholarship pool of more than $25,000 is divided into 12 monthly awards of $1,000, a ‘People’s Choice’ award of $2,500 and a ‘Young Hero of the Year’ award of an additional $10,000, highlighting the commitment Primary Bank has made toward recognizing these deserving young people. These scholars are not only exceptional in their community efforts but have also managed to maintain outstanding academic records. Their ability to balance their academic responsibilities with their commitment to service underscores their strong work ethic and determination.

“The actions of these high school students serve as a beacon of hope and reminder that positive change begins at the local level, “said Bill Greiner, Primary Bank Interim CEO. “Through their commitment to service, they are setting an example for others to follow and embodying the true spirit of community.”

As we congratulate these young individuals on their well-deserved recognition, let us also remember that it's through their efforts that the future shines a little brighter for the communities they touch.

Meet the Scholarship Recipients

January Winner Our first Primary Bank Young Hero Scholarship is awarded to Corinne Kelly, a recent graduate of Pelham High School. She has been recognized for her work with ‘Operation Care for Troops,’ and has helped send more than 8,000 care packages to deployed military men and women.
February Winner Kathryn Mikol from Bedford High School is our February hero. Kathryn is the general manager of Fueled by Kids, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that anonymously provides nutritious food to students struggling with hunger and food insecurity. On a weekly basis, volunteers pack more than 900 bags of food, helping kids at 21 schools in Manchester.
March Winner Our March hero is Emma Polyukhovich. Emma Polyukhovich attends Pinkerton Academy, and over the past two years has volunteered more than 250 hours supporting relief for her native country of Ukraine.
April Winner Our April winner is Calvin Plante, a senior at Pinkerton Academy has shown exceptional dedication to his community. In addition to volunteering at the Derry Museum of History, he is an active volunteer and role model at the Boys & Girls Club.
May Winner Brooke Adams is our May hero. She is a recent graduate of South Merrimack Christian Academy, and volunteered countless hours with charities both here and abroad, spending summers working with children in Guatemala.
June Winner Our June hero is Sienna Lee Muccioli, a student at Founders Academy who has volunteered more than 900 hours in the past year, working with numerous local charities in the Nashua area.
July Winner The July recipient is Raquel DeLeo, who graduated from Bedford High School and, in addition to volunteering with the YMCA, is the creator of a podcast for young woman geared towards helping with their emotional and mental health.
August Winner Angelina Townsend is our August hero. She is a graduate of Pinkerton Academy and volunteers her time supporting Derry’s local soup kitchen and the Animal Rescue League.