Scholars & Impact
Darya Chaharom
Boston University | B.A. Physics
Ewing Sarcoma Survivor
Darya has big dreams to eventually work in medical physics, and will be continuing her education at Johns Hopkins University Medical School this fall! We couldn’t be more proud.
Kennedy Constantini
Texas University at Austin | B.S. Environmental Engineering
Glioma Survivor
Congratulations to Kennedy, who graduated in December and is already making incredible strides in her career! She recently accepted a full-time role as an Environmental Engineer with Burns & McDonnell in Austin, TX, where she works in the Air Quality department. In January, she earned her Engineer-in-Training (EIT) license, and has been embracing exciting new chapters in life — moving in with her partner and welcoming a sweet new puppy into their home. Kennedy’s journey is just getting started, and she looks forward to earning her Professional Engineer (PE) license and continuing her passion for public education outreach. We’re so proud to celebrate her achievements and can’t wait to see all that she accomplishes!
Chris Alegria
Nova Southeastern University | B.A. Business Marketing
Brain Cancer Survivor
Chris is proud to graduate with his Bachelor’s of Business Marketing and is excited to enter the business world. More than anything, he hopes to find a job that will make him smile and allow him to make a difference in someone’s life.
Whitney Espinosa
Liberty University | M.A. Applied Ministry
Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Survivor
Whitney is graduating summa cum laude from Liberty University with an M.A. in Applied Ministry. She has been accepted into Liberty’s Doctor of Ministry program, which begins on May 12th and will shape the next few years of her life. Whitney is overjoyed to start this new journey and continue her work in ministry. Congratulations, Whitney—we’re cheering you on every step of the way!
Aimee De Luna
San Diego State University | B.A. Journalism (Public Relations)
Leukemia Survivor
Aimee is graduating summa cum laude from San Diego State University with a B.A. in Journalism, with an emphasis in Public Relations. She was named Outstanding Undergraduate Public Relations Student, interned with Make-A-Wish, and led a team of 15 PR students in launching a real-world campaign for a local nonprofit. Aimee hopes to work in nonprofit or healthcare PR—fields that supported her during treatment—so she can give back to the communities that once lifted her. Aimee, your drive to serve others is nothing short of inspiring!
Alex Ushakov
UC San Diego | M.I.A. International Affairs
Leukemia Survivor
Alex is graduating from UC San Diego with a Master’s in International Affairs as a Dean’s Fellow. He is currently interning as a portfolio analyst at a bank in La Jolla and is interested in pursuing a career in finance or management consulting. Planning to stay in San Diego, Alex brings both resilience and ambition to every step forward—congratulations, Alex!
Lily Knecht
Queen’s University of Charlotte | B.A. Music Therapy, Psychology Minor
Osteosarcoma Survivor
Congratulations to Lily, who recently earned her BA in Music Therapy — a field that played a powerful role in her own healing journey during cancer treatment. She is now in the process of securing a music therapy internship, with the goal of bringing the transformative power of music to patients in medical settings.
Adrian Marquez
California State University at Long Beach | B.S. Nursing
Leukemia Survivor
Adrian is graduating from California State University, Long Beach with a B.S. in Nursing. He plans to become an ER nurse while also continuing his career as a DJ. Adrian, your passion for both healing and music is inspiring—we’re proud to celebrate you!
Sydney Mullins
The University of Kentucky | Master of Architecture
Ovarian Cancer & Astrocytoma Survivor
Sydney is graduating from the University of Kentucky with a Master of Architecture. Her goal is to become a licensed architect and work at a local design firm in Lexington, KY. Congratulations, Sydney—we’re excited to see your vision take shape!
Laura Haney
California State University Chico | B.A. Liberal Studies
Thyroid & Colorectal Cancer Survivor
Congratulations to Laura Haney, a two-time cancer survivor who graduated magna cum laude from CSU Chico! Laura’s incredible perseverance and dedication have led her to an exciting next chapter — she will be stepping into the classroom as a fourth-grade teacher next year. We are so proud to celebrate her achievements and the bright future she’s creating for herself and her future students!
Paul Fedorovsky
Indiana University – Kelley School of Business | B.S. Finance & Real Estate
Sarcoma Survivor
Paul is graduating from Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business with a B.S. in Finance and Real Estate. He’s heading back to Newport Beach, CA to continue managing exotic car storage, and plans to earn his real estate license this summer while scaling his exotic car consulting business. Congrats, Paul—we’re excited to watch your journey unfold!
Leian Dinatale
San Diego State University | Early Childhood Special Education Credential
Breast Cancer Survivor
Leian is graduating with honors from San Diego State University with a credential in Early Childhood Special Education. She’s now entering grad school to pursue her master’s degree in the same subject. Congratulations, Leian—we’re proud to support your continued journey in education!
Lauren Bendesky
Temple University | M.D.
Neuroblastoma Survivor
Lauren is graduating from Temple University with an M.D. and was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. She’ll begin her residency in June at UCSF, where she will be training to become a radiation oncologist. Congratulations, Lauren—we’re so proud and inspired by your path!
Jayson Gerken
Valencia College | A.S. Hospitality Management
Brain Cancer Survivor
Congratulations to Jason, who is graduating with honors in Hospitality Management and an impressive 4.0 GPA! Jason is currently completing internships at the regional corporate office of Marriott Vacations Worldwide in Orlando, gaining valuable experience and building a strong foundation for his future career. While the next steps are still unfolding, Jason is optimistic and excited about the opportunities ahead. We’re proud to celebrate his hard work, dedication, and bright future!
Casey Troy
University of Southern California | B.A. Communication
Lymphoma Survivor
Casey is graduating from the University of Southern California with a B.A. in Communication. Looking ahead, she hopes to travel to new places, spend more quality time with loved ones, and live and work in New York City. Congrats, Casey—we’re excited to see where life takes you next!
Mauri’Anna Richardson
Wofford College | B.S. Chemistry
Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Survivor
Mauri’Anna is graduating from Wofford College with a B.S. in Chemistry. Next year, she’s getting married and plans to attend medical school after retaking the MCAT in August. We’re continually inspired by her determination and can’t wait to see the impact she’ll make in medicine and beyond. Congratulations, MauriAnna!
Justus Mendoza
The University of Texas at San Antonio | B.A. Politics and Law
Chordoma Survivor
Justus is graduating from The University of Texas at San Antonio as a Distinguished Honors Graduate, summa cum laude, with a B.A. in Politics and Law. He will be continuing his academic journey at Texas A&M School of Law. Congratulations, Justus—we’re proud to celebrate your achievements and can’t wait to see all that you accomplish next!
Lily Garcia
Columbia University | M.S. Historic Preservation
Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Survivor
Lily is graduating from Columbia University with an M.S. in Historic Preservation. After finishing her degree, she plans to hike the 2,650-mile Pacific Crest Trail—a five-month journey. Once completed, she’ll return to the Pacific Northwest and likely volunteer through the winter. In the next few years, she hopes to be working again with the National Park Service. We’re wishing you all the best, Lily—what an incredible adventure ahead!
Gabriel Hoefler
DigiPen Institute of Technology | B.A. Game Design
Leukemia Survivor
Gabriel is graduating from DigiPen Institute of Technology with a B.A. in Game Design. He’s currently applying for jobs in the game industry and making games with friends until he lands a position. We’re proud to cheer him on as he takes the next step in his creative career!
Katherine Scully
Southern Methodist University | B.A. Markets and Culture, Minor in Communications and Public Relations
Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Survivor
Katherine is graduating from Southern Methodist University with a B.A. in Markets and Culture and a minor in Communications and Public Relations. She’ll be staying in Dallas to work for a wholesale insurance company. Though the future isn’t 100% certain, Katherine is stepping into this next chapter with enthusiasm and strength—we’re proud of her and excited for what’s ahead!
Ryan Carasiti
East Carolina University | B.S. Finance (Risk Management and Insurance)
Lymphoma & Leukemia Survivor
Ryan is graduating from East Carolina University with a B.S. in Finance, concentrating in Risk Management and Insurance. He plans to become an underwriter for an insurance company. Congratulations, Ryan—your hard work and focus are impressive, and we’re excited to see you succeed in this next chapter!
Gabby Clinton
Liberty University | B.S. Strategic Communication
Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Survivor
Gabby is graduating from Liberty University with a B.S. in Strategic Communication. This summer, she’ll be interning with a nonprofit in South Florida, and afterward she plans to pursue a role in social media management within the nonprofit sector. We’re so proud of Gabby’s dedication to purpose-driven work—congratulations!
William Wallace
Kennesaw State University | B.S. Finance and Economics
Leukemia Survivor
William is graduating from Kennesaw State University with a degree in Finance and Economics. An honors student and recipient of the Fixed Income Analyst of the Semester award, William plans to begin working immediately after graduation and pursue certifications like the CFA. He’s leaning toward a career in treasury or financial analysis. Congratulations, William—your drive and curiosity are impressive!
Raeana Spech
Wayne State College | B.S. Education
Blood Cancer Survivor
Raeana is graduating summa cum laude from Wayne State College with a B.S. in Education. She’ll be teaching high school math, and we’re incredibly proud to see her step into this vital role. Congratulations, Raeana—we’re cheering you on!
Savannah Mason
University of Tennessee, Chattanooga | M.Ed. Clinical Mental Health Counseling
Anaplastic Ependymoma Survivor
Savannah is graduating with a 4.0 GPA from the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga, with a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She’s a member of Chi Sigma Iota, the Tennessee Counseling Association, and the American Counseling Association. Savannah plans to become a licensed professional counselor in Tennessee, with a special interest in supporting cancer patients and their families. Her commitment to advocacy and raising awareness for the cancer community continues through her music, storytelling, and plans to write a book. Savannah, we are amazed by your compassion, talent, and determination!
Nekiyah Weaver
University of Alabama at Birmingham | B.S. Digital Marketing
Leukemia Survivor
Nekiyah is graduating magna cum laude from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a B.S. in Digital Marketing. A licensed real estate agent, she plans to build her client base while continuing to develop her marketing skills. In the next few years, Nekiyah hopes to establish herself as a respected professional with strong community connections. Congratulations, Nekiyah—we’re excited to see all you accomplish!
Elisa Torres-Yeckley
Quinnipiac University | B.S. Health Science
Lymphoma Survivor
Elisa is graduating cum laude from Quinnipiac University with a B.S. in Health Science. She will be working as a medical assistant while studying for the MCAT this fall, with plans to apply to medical school. Congratulations, Elisa—we’re excited to see where your journey in medicine leads!
Molly Streicher
California State University San Marcos | B.S. Business Administration and Marketing
Ewing Sarcoma Survivor
Molly is graduating from Cal State San Marcos with a B.S. in Business Administration and Marketing. A recent Dean’s List student, she’s passionate about sports, entertainment, and philanthropy, and will be interning with a large event marketing conference this summer. Molly looks forward to building a career in event marketing where she can lead creative campaigns and meaningful partnerships. Congratulations, Molly—we can’t wait to see the impact you’ll make!
Nicole Spine
Southern New Hampshire University | B.S. Psychology
Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Survivor
Nicole graduated summa cum laude this January from Southern New Hampshire University with a B.A. in Psychology. She plans to pursue a Master of Social Work and hopes to become a counselor for teen and young adult cancer patients. Nicole’s dedication to giving back to the cancer community is truly inspiring—we’re so proud of her and can’t wait to see the difference she’ll make!
Jimmy Zydlo
University of Wisconsin at Madison | B.S. Biomedical Engineering
Hodgkin’s Lymphoma Survivor
Jimmy is graduating from the University of Wisconsin with a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering. Starting in May, he’ll be working at Epic in Verona, WI, where he’s excited to begin making a positive impact in the healthcare industry. His long-term goal is to improve lives through engineering, particularly by contributing to the advancement of medical devices used in oncology. Jimmy’s focus and drive to serve others through innovation are truly inspiring—congratulations!
Farah Contractor
University of Virginia School of Medicine | M.D.
Lymphoma Survivor
Farah is graduating from the University of Virginia with an M.D. She was recognized as a Hook Scholar of Health Humanities and Ethics and inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society. This June, she’ll begin a general psychiatry residency at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center on the child psychiatry track, which includes a fellowship in child and adolescent psychiatry. Over the next few years, Farah looks forward to growing both personally and professionally—as a physician and a writer—while enjoying life in Pittsburgh with her partner and friends. Congratulations, Farah—we’re so proud of all you’ve achieved!
The Need is Great
Facts that Drive Us
- More than 15,000 children face a cancer diagnosis this year, with 1/3 aged 15-19.
- 1 in 5 diagnosed children are living in poverty.
- 30% of diagnosed children lack an oncologist within 60 miles.
- Average hospital stay costs for a child with cancer: $40,000; total diagnosis cost: $833,000.
- Indirect costs during treatment can be significant for travel, meals, accommodation, and childcare for siblings.
- 94% of parents caring for a child with cancer make work-related sacrifices.
- 36% of families dealing with cancer lose 40% or more of their annual income.
- Over 66% of pediatric cancer survivors in the U.S. face ongoing medical expenses.
About Our Scholars
Transforming Challenges into Triumphs
- 98% of our scholars graduate, exceeding the national average of 57%.
- 1 in 3 scholars is the first in their family to attend college.
- Scholars have an average family income of $49,000 per year.
- Post-cancer, more than 80% express a desire to give back through their chosen career path.
- Scholars maintain an impressive average GPA of 3.78.
- CFC scholars work as social media interns, contributing to the success of events and campaigns.
- Top fundraisers are invited to a leadership conference at Disneyland, bonding with fellow young survivors.
- 56% of scholars plan careers in nursing, the medical field, therapy, research, or social work.
- In 2023, for our 30th Anniversary, CFC scholars raised more than $85,000 for fellow survivors, funding 17 additional scholarships.
At Cancer for College, our scholars redefine triumph over adversity, and your support makes these stories possible. Join us in celebrating the resilience, achievements, and impact of our extraordinary community.
Scholar Stories
Get To Know CFC Scholars
Julian Castaneda
Entrepreneurial Spirit Scholar
Sha’leicia Simpson
Nursing Advocate
Sierra Estep
Social Media Dynamo
Robert Lisac
Resilient Leader
Juan Razuri Maldonado
Young Advocate
Scholar Testimonials
“"Cancer for College was there for me in a way I never knew I needed. Not only did they give my family and me financial help, but they also gave me some incredible friends and resources that I absolutely needed when I was going through my treatment and recovery. This organization really, really, really does change lives."
Molly Oldham2x Brain Cancer Survivor & CFC scholar
““CFC has had such a big impact on my life so far…I’ve already been able to build such a great relationship with the Old Family [my scholarship sponsors], and they have just been so invested in wanting to learn more about who I am as a person. Learning about that community with Cancer for College has been really awesome.”
Maggie ConlonOld Family Scholar and Rhabdomyosarcoma Survivor
“"I would say in terms of how Cancer for College has impacted me, it goes way beyond the scholarships. They offer mentor groups that I’ve really benefitted from and helped me get my dream job out of college….Cancer for College really gave me that hope and sense of purpose and meaning in my life, and to just be a part of a family, really."
Sana MoezziLymphoma Survivor and USD Graduate
“"Cancer puts a strain on your body, a strain on your mind, a strain on your finances. So it was really nice to have something like Cancer for College, that kind of got rid of one of those strains for me. Because of Cancer for College, I’ve had a lot of opportunities in school that I wouldn’t have had otherwise."
Alex KlugLeukemia Survivor and Physics Major
“"I have a single mom who had to pay for medical bills on her own, so it was also rewarding that I could give her that great news [that I had received a scholarship], and it was just really emotional for the both of us. I truly appreciate it, and coming from complete strangers, yet again, just shows how wonderful some people in the world are."
Haley SpearsNursing Student and Lymphoma Survivor
Donate to the Cause.
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Every dollar puts deserving cancer survivors closer to realizing their dreams.
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Because you’ve been through enough challenges. Share your story, make your case and we’ll do our best to help.
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