BAC Announces 2021 U.S. Bates Scholarship Recipients
Thanks to the 2021 US Bates Scholarship program, six college-bound students from BAC families will be receiving a little help. Each year, BAC awards three scholarships to the students of parents or step-parents who are BAC members in the US. The stipends are $5,000 per year for up to four years—up to $20,000 total.
The program, previously administered by National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC), has been redesigned and is now administered by International Scholarship and Tuition Services (ISTS). Due to an overlap in administration, there are six recipients of this year’s scholarship. We sat down with the three winners of the program administered by NMSC to get a peek into what the honor means to them. The other three winners through the program administered by ISTS will be announced at a later date and featured in our next BAC Journal.
Zachary DuCharme
Attending: Northeastern University
Major: College of Engineering
Family/IU Info: Todd DuCharme, BAC Local 3 Massachusetts/Maine/New Hampshire/Rhode Island
What does this recognition mean to you?
It’s an honor to have been selected as one of the winners among a vast pool of talented individuals. I am appreciative of the scholarship, but also of the spotlight that it shines on a very dedicated and hard-working group of men and women in the Bricklayers Union community.
What does the Union mean to you and your family?
The Union is like a supportive family; it gives each member the job security and confidence that they will be protected and cared for by others within their community. They are dedicated to their work and their families. These are important core values to me moving forward into the collegiate and working world of co-op at Northeastern University.
What advice would you offer your peers and younger students?
Ambition can get you a long way. It really doesn’t feel like work if you really want something.
What's the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Don’t worry about solving the problem—have an open mind and be concerned about the progress toward a solution that may change our views.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to?
My AP Physics teacher Mr. (Alan) Chuckran, and my AP Calculus teacher and internship mentor, Dr. Cummings. I’d also like to give thanks for all the support of my friends and family.
Elissa Scheel
Attending: Gannon University
Major: Occupational Therapy
Family/IU Info: Robert Scheel, BAC Local 5 Ohio
Scheel, a member of BAC Local 5 OH.
What does this recognition mean to you?
It is an opportunity. With this financial assistance, I will be able to attend the college of my choice, while pursuing my dream of becoming an occupational therapist.
What does the Union mean to you and your family?
The Union has provided financial stability and excellent health benefits for my family, which we are very grateful for.
What advice would you offer your peers and younger students?
I would recommend working hard in school, while also enjoying your life. My work ethic in school has set me up for success and an exciting future in college. Additionally, there is a limited amount of time as a teenager, so create memories you will always remember and be grateful for those around you.
What's the best piece of advice you have ever received?
To be the best that you can be and to not compare yourself to others.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to?
I would like to give a shout-out to my friends and family for supporting my academic and athletic activities, especially my Mom, Dad and sister. I’d also like to recognize my cross country and roller-skating coaches for shaping me into the hard-working individual I am today.
Marina Ferro
Attending: Bucknell University
Major: Sociology
Family/IU Info: Peter Paul Ferro/BAC Local 5 Pennsylvania
What does this recognition mean to you?
I am incredibly honored and grateful to receive this recognition. I always knew growing up how loving and hard-working my parents were, but it has been only recently that I've fully realized how much they sacrifice for me and those around them. My whole life I've been blessed with an amazing support system. They challenge me and are always proud of and accepting of where I land. This recognition means so much to me because it's in a way of displaying the support they've given to me.
What does the Union mean to you and your family?
The Union really is like family. Since I was a kid, there have been summer picnics where my family and I get to gather with other Union members. It is always a great time. I've always felt they care for me and my family even though I do not see them often.
What advice would you offer your peers and younger students?
I recommend allowing yourself to be proud of your own feats. Oftentimes, we strive for greatness and forget to reflect on what we've accomplished along the way. We are young and courageous and sometimes we make mistakes, but to be proud of who you are allows you to become your best self moving forward.
What's the best piece of advice you have ever received?
The best piece of advice was from my older sister. She always reminds me to not take myself, and life too seriously. She shows me how to loosen up and slow down. It makes me a better person, and helps me recognize and appreciate others, too.
Who would you like to give a shout-out to?
I'd like to thank my Dad for always being there for me. He loves my family unconditionally and is a rock in my life, even when he is away at work. I love you, Dad.