Katelynn S. DeLuca

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“Throughout my academic career, I have worked extremely hard, not only to earn good grades, but also embrace and learn the material with which I am presented. While I’ve never had the highest level of self-confidence, I've continued to push myself and believe that working hard will help me become a better student.”

  • Program: 2010 Graduate Scholarship Recipient
  • Resides: Riverhead, NY
  • Hometown: Riverhead, NY
  • Age: 24

Biography

PROFILE: In 2006, as a 17-year-old ready to begin college, Katelynn DeLuca faced a life-altering disease. She didn’t back down. Through her illness and through similar medical crises faced by her mother and a sibling, Katelynn persevered, continuing her education. The honor student and spirited young woman from Long Island’s north shore earned an Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship from the Foundation. As she served as primary caregiver for her parents, Katelynn completed her studies at Stony Brook University. She is now one step closer to her goal of teaching high school English and eventually, at the university level. Katelynn’s resilience, determination, dedication, and “never give up” attitude continues to impress faculty, friends, and fellow students. Katelynn will pursue her master’s degree at Stony Brook. Upon graduation, she’ll begin her career in education and have an inspiring personal story for her future students.

INSPIRATION: Katelynn’s main source of inspiration and support comes from her mother and from the residents of Riverhead that banded together to help her family cope with expensive medical bills. In the classroom, Katelynn singles out Cynthia Eaton, her first community college English teacher: “She was extremely energetic, encouraging, and passionate – all of which inspired me.” Katelynn said Professor Eaton “helped me recognize my potential and challenged me to rise to higher levels.”

ASPIRATION: To teach English in high school and later at the university level.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE: Because of her health challenges, Katelynn knows that “every moment of life is precious and that we must never go into any endeavor with half of our heart or of our mind.” Her struggles fuel her desire for success and with each day, each class, and each tutoring session she leads, Katelynn works towards becoming the best teacher she can be. 

ACCOLADES: Katelynn was accepted into the Accelerated Degree Program at Stony Brook, which allowed her to begin graduate school a semester earlier. She also received the 2008 SUNY Chancellor Award for Student Excellence, was named to the 2008 Phi Theta Kappa All-USA Academic 2nd Team, and is a member of Sigma Beta Honor Society.

INTERESTING FACT: Katelynn is a sports fan and has been a devoted, long-time New York Mets fan. She has also served as head coach of the Riverhead High School girls’ basketball summer league team for four years. 

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