CLEVELAND, OH - September 14, 2023 - The American Heart Association of Greater Cleveland has awarded $5,000 scholarships to six Greater Cleveland area students pursuing STEM-related postsecondary degrees as part of the Lorraine Dodero STEM Goes Red for Girls Scholarship program.

The American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women movement and Lorraine Dodero of The Sam J. Frankino Foundation developed the Cleveland STEM Goes Red for Girls Scholarship in 2019 with the goal of bridging the gap between the interest of female students in pursuing a career in a STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and achieving their goals.

As part of the application process, the students were asked to submit a 500-word essay detailing why they are interested in pursuing a STEM-related degree, how their STEM major will contribute to their future career plans and the importance of STEM in general.

In addition to the essay, criteria for receiving the STEM Goes Red for Girls Scholarship is based on applicants’ academic achievements, providing a high school transcript and an appropriate letter of recommendation. Applicants must also attend one of the schools or districts that participates in the American Heart Association’s annual STEM Goes Red for Girls event.

The scholarship application committee, made up of volunteers representing the American Heart Association in the STEM fields, reviewed a great number of submissions before selecting the six finalists. 

"Empowering the next generation of STEM leaders is at the heart of our mission, and we are thrilled to support these exceptional young women in their pursuit of STEM-related education,” said Valerie Hillow Gates, Executive Director of the American Heart Association in Cleveland.  “Through the Lorraine Dodero STEM Goes Red for Girls Scholarship program, we are not only investing in their futures, but also in the advancement of science, technology, engineering and math fields, which are vital in shaping the society of tomorrow.”

The 2023 Lorraine Dodero STEM Goes Red for Girls Scholarship recipients are:

Aysa Abed, Cleveland School of Science & Medicine

Niko Bell, Cleveland Heights High School

Alaysia King, Cleveland School of Science & Medicine

Brooklyn Pace, Cleveland Heights High School

Sofia Salvino, Gilmour Academy

Reauna Walker, East Technical High School

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About the American Heart Association

The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.   

For Media Inquiries:
Jordan Van Dootingh, Communications Director | Jordan.vandootingh@heart.org