Submitted by Sheridan Community Schools
Sheridan High School (SHS) Principal Rick Davis announced that Chad Weaver has been named a Hamilton County Lilly Scholar through the Lilly Endowment Community Scholarship Program.
This prestigious scholarship provides full tuition, required fees, and a book stipend for four years to any Indiana public or private university.
Davis explained that Weaver was surprised at school with a visit from representatives from the Central Indiana Community Foundation, who shared the good news. The few people at SHS who helped organize the presentation were sworn to secrecy.
Chad Weaver (center) with Central Indiana Community Foundation representatives after receiving the good news that he had been selected as a Lilly Scholarship recipient. (Photo provided by Sheridan Community Schools)
When asked about the scholarship, Weaver said, “I’m so grateful for this opportunity I’m being given. I’ve always worried about if college was going to be an option for me, but through perseverance and the kindness of others, I have the opportunity to live my dream! I’m so excited to see what the future holds and the people I will meet on the way. This is an opportunity of a lifetime, and I don’t plan to waste it. I would love to thank all of the amazing teachers I’ve had. Without the kindness and empathy from them, I wouldn’t be where I am today. School has always been my safe place and for that, I’m eternally grateful!”
While Weaver praised SHS staff and teachers, SHS personnel had praise for him. School Counselor Jessica Cantlon noted, “Chad has experienced a lot as a young person in this world, and he continues to show up each and every day with a positive mindset and work ethic that is unparalleled. He brings a kindness and gentleness to this world that is refreshing.”
Guidance Assistant Diane Anderson added, “Life is full of challenges, and Chad has faced them head-on with unwavering determination. His resilience in overcoming obstacles and setbacks is truly commendable. The scholarship is not only a reward for Chad’s achievements but also a recognition of his ability to persevere and thrive in the face of adversity.”
Weaver plans to pursue a degree in secondary music education, so it is fitting that his choir director Libby Doublestein said of him, “It has been an absolute joy having Chad as a student and getting to know him over the past several years through choir, musical theatre, and marching band. The dedication and enthusiasm he has for his passions are evident, and I am over the moon excited that his dream of becoming a choir teacher will be supported through this scholarship!”
Davis added, “The Lilly Foundation Scholarship is an honored, special, and life-changing scholarship and Chad Weaver is so deserving. Receiving this scholarship is a testament to Chad’s focus, effort, achievement, and dreams and we are so proud of him and all of those who have supported him on his journey.”